Stories, songs and good company for the first weekend of October

There is a lot to enjoy close to home this week. A storytelling festival brings voices from near and far to St. John’s, a family comedy show heads to Clarenville, and community groups around the Avalon are inviting us to gather, listen and lend a hand. Here are a few ways to make the most of the days ahead. As always, Coast 101.1 is glad to share the good things people are making happen in our communities.

A Friday night of stories in St. John’s

The St. John’s Storytelling Festival presents Tales from Near & Afar at the LSPU Hall on Friday, October 2, from 7 to 9 p.m. Ruth Kirkpatrick hosts Karen Carroll, Christine Hennebury and Dennis Flynn. The festival also has a Saturday morning workshop and more performances. Check the organizer’s schedule for tickets and the full lineup. It is a lovely excuse to hear how a good story can make a room feel like a community.

An Avalon weekend made for neighbours

On Saturday, October 3, the Cowan Heights United Church Fall Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in St. John’s, with local crafts and lunch available. Later that day, Poetry for Pooches welcomes all ages to the A.C. Hunter Library at 2:30 p.m. to read poems to visiting therapy dogs; the listing says no registration is needed. These events are among the community notices Coast shares through Community Matters. Check that page for any last-minute changes.

In Conception Bay South, St. Edward’s Parish plans a musical concert on Saturday, October 3, at 7 p.m. The announced performers include Judy Brazil, Russell Molloy and Brandon Bowen, along with parish voices. The parish office has ticket information at 709-834-9481. It is another chance to spend an evening with local music while supporting a community gathering.

Clarenville has a family night on the calendar

Clarenville’s 75th anniversary celebrations include Michael Harrison in Ventastic: Reimagining Ventriloquism at the Clarenville Events Centre Theatre on Tuesday, October 6, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The Canadian entertainer brings comedy and puppetry to a show billed for families. Check the venue page for tickets and current details. Looking a little farther ahead, the venue also lists local rock act Saving Liberty for Saturday, October 10.

Community spotlight: the Janeway Foundation

The Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation supports care for children and youth across Newfoundland and Labrador. Its RBC Race for the Kids is coming to Bowring Park in St. John’s on Saturday, October 10, with a 5K timed race and a 2K family fun run. The foundation says registrations support children’s mental health programs in the province. There is time this week to gather a team, register, or share the event with a family who might enjoy it.

Share your good news with Coast

Coast’s Community Matters offers free listings for charities and registered nonprofit groups. If your organization has a public event, send clear written details to onair@coast1011.com. Tell us what is happening, when and where, and how neighbours can take part. We love hearing what is happening around St. John’s, the Avalon and Clarenville.