Sidrabene
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Sidrabene is a Latvian cottage and camp-grounds community located in Burlington, Ontario. It is most renowned for its annual children's summer camp and Jāņi (St John's Day), a summer solstice celebration. The grounds contain numerous recreational facilities, sporting fields and playground equipment - the most notorious being the giant wooden hamster wheel, which has left many a skinned-knee and splintered finger throughout the years, and which remains a favorite within the park. The facilities host various sporting, musical and social events throughout the year. Sidrabene is an important cultural landmark for many Latvian-Canadians residing within the Hamilton and Halton regions. Hidden amongst Bronte Creek, one must turn onto a hidden driveway from Appleby line, down a winding dirt road to make way on to the property.
Children's camp
The children's camp serves young people between the ages of 3 to 15.The camp is divided into three sections: The girl's end, the boy's end, and "Calu Kalns," which houses the youngest children. Children may be enrolled in a day camp program (3-5yrs), "Calu Kalns" (6-8yrs), or in the regular camp (9-13yrs.) Once the Children reach 13 or 14, they may choose to participate in the C.I.T.(Counselor-in-Training) program. Once they have completed stages One and Two, they are eligible to work as Counselors in the camp.
Camping Grounds
The Sidrabene property offers the ability to be used as a private camping ground for members of the community.
Cottages
Many cottages have been constructed on the Sidrabene property. They are occupied by members of the St. Andrew's Latvian Lutheran congregation, as you must be a member to own property in the camp.