The weekly gathering began as a social experiment in January 2024, with the goal of creating space for neighbours and community members to meet and mingle. The volunteer organizers open the lower hall of the Harmony Centre from 10:30am to noon every Sunday morning, entry is by donation to cover the costs, coffee and tea are provided, and people bring potluck snacks to share.

“Solidarity Sundays started with a simple conversation at the Farmer’s Market,” said Kat Scott, co-founder and rotating weekly host. “A few of us were talking about how important it is to have spaces where neighbors of all ages can meet, connect, and just spend time together. We realized how rare those spaces are nowadays, and someone mentioned the old tradition of coffee hours after church. That sparked the idea to recreate that kind of social gathering, but in a more secular, inclusive way—and it’s been a great success.”

What began as a one month experiment, was so successful that the organizers kept it going into the spring. Solidarity Sundays was also nominated for an Owen Sound Cultural Award in the ‘most promising new event’ category.

According to Joel Pennington, another one of the organizers, it is the flexibility and openness of Solidarity Sundays that makes it so successful.

“People come to chat and make new friends, families bring games, grandparents join with their grandchildren, and some even bring puzzles and crafts. We also have musicians who jam and lead sing-alongs. It’s all donation-based, so there’s no pressure—everyone can participate as they’re able. We want to make it as welcoming and accessible as possible. As long as you’re friendly and kind, we’d love to have you join us.”

For more information about Solidarity Sundays, visit the Harmony Centre website at www.harmonycentre.ca or email Joel at pennington_joel@outlook.com