Minden Hills is inviting the community to a long-awaited celebration of its S.G Nesbitt Memorial Arena May 7.

While the arena has been open to the public since 2021, COVID-19 restrictions delayed grand opening plans.

“This is a great opportunity to end off our first ice season with a giant welcome to the community. We’re looking forward to it,” director of community services Craig Belfry told Minden Hills councillors at an April 14 meeting.

Events will run from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The schedule includes a Minden Figure Skating Club show, a Highland Storm scrimmage and public skating with Haliburton County Huskies players.

There will also be a basketball free-throw contest, opportunities to try other sports equipment and martial arts demonstrations.

Community groups who use the arena will be set up to showcase their organizations and there will be refreshments and snacks available.

The gym, now fully equipped with exercise equipment, will have demonstrations from fitness professionals.

Mayor Brent Devolin said it’s exciting to finally be able to celebrate the project. He urged Belfry and staff to ensure everyone who had a “formal” part in the arena’s construction be invited.

“There’s been a lot of people involved along the way,” he said.