The excitement was palpable this past Saturday at Swedes Park as the Bolivar Arena Association (BAA) hosted a lively fundraiser and groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the beginning of construction on their new rodeo arena. The event drew a large crowd, many of whom were enticed by the delicious crawfish platters served up by Jose’s Cantina Restaurant. In fact, one group of ladies admitted they showed up simply because they heard the word “crawfish,” unaware there was an entire celebration underway! Their spontaneous visit turned into a fun-filled afternoon as plenty of other crawfish lovers also enjoyed the feast.
Live music played throughout the day, adding a festive atmosphere as families gathered to support the cause. Kids were treated to barrel racing and roping activities designed just for them, keeping the younger crowd entertained and giving them a taste of the rodeo spirit.
Both silent and live auctions kept the energy high, with several popular items up for grabs. One standout was the mouthwatering Chocolate Explosion Cake, which sparked a bidding war. In the end, Hoss Strimple claimed the winning bid. Demonstrating the generous community spirit that defines Bolivar, Strimple immediately cut the cake and shared it with the crowd.
Then, with golden shovels in hand, BAA board members and guests took turns breaking ground, symbolizing the official start of the highly anticipated project.
The Bolivar Arena Association has big plans for the new venue. Their vision is to create a first-class arena that will host rodeos and a variety of other community events, offering a central gathering place for the Bolivar Peninsula and surrounding areas. Groundwork has already begun, with bleachers erected and construction activity underway.
For updates and more information about the Bolivar Arena Association and the new arena project, visit https://www.facebook.com/BolivarArenaAssociation
