The Fauq Center came alive with laughter and friendly competition as ‘Unplug & Play in Fauquier’ brought together more than 25 community members from Fauquier, Burton, and the surrounding Arrow Lakes area. Young children, teenagers, parents, and seniors all gathered on a chilly wintery evening for an old-fashioned games night that reminded everyone how much fun can be had without a screen in sight.
Tables were set up around the room with classic board games, card games, Yahtzee , and a few new ones that quickly became favourites. People drifted naturally from table to table, teaching each other rules, forming teams across generations, and cheering each other on. One corner had a lively Yahtzee tournament running , while another saw a group of kids learning a new game centered around Lego! The room was filled with the sound of dice rolling, cards shuffling, and constant bursts of laughter.
Thanks to the Neighborhood Small Grant, we were able to give away many brand-new board games and card games at the end of the night. Families, couples, and individuals were invited to choose one (or sometimes two) to take home. Watching a shy teenager light up when she picked out a new version of a card game she played when a kid made the whole evening even more special.
We had planned to wrap up at 9:00 p.m., but at 8:45 nobody was making a move to leave. Instead, we all agreed to keep playing—and ended up staying an extra hour because everyone was having such a hoot! By the time we finally turned off the lights, new friendships had been made, old ones strengthened, and many people left carrying not just a game under their arm, but the feeling of real connection. ‘Unplug & Play’ proved that in a small rural community, something as simple as opening a hall, putting out games, and sharing food can create pure joy. The enthusiasm has already sparked requests for a monthly games night (the next one is already scheduled for January).
Thank you once again to Neighborhood Small Grants for supporting these small ideas that make a big difference in the lives and happiness of our neighbours.
