SASKATOON — The Saskatoon community association of Varsity View celebrated four decades with a community event on June 14. The day featured activities, walking tours, live music, food booths and more, all centred around the picturesque President Murray Park.
Echoing a famous movie line, “If you build it, they will come,” organizers of the Varsity View Community Association’s 40th anniversary made sure there was a full slate of events for residents and guests. From the start time of 11 a.m. and continuing throughout the day, many took part in one or more of the activities, while others simply relaxed in the park and enjoyed the atmosphere.
One of the organizers, Shelly Loeffler noted that their committee of four had been planning the celebration since September 2024. Twenty-five volunteers worked diligently in the lead-up and on the day to help ensure everything ran smoothly.
The event was geared for all ages. Entertainment included main stage live music by groups such as Sons of Django and Jazzkatoon. Arts around the park featured rock painting, local artist displays, face painting and hopscotch on the street. Cultural dancing was also part of the main stage lineup.
Historical walking tours were a highlight, including one led by Saskatoon historian Dianne Wilson on the architecture of the area.
One of the unique interactive games was pickleball golf, held on the west side of the park, alongside a demonstration of circus arts.
Among the more whimsical attractions were fairy gardens nestled in the forested areas of the park. Guests could also enjoy a book exchange using the “books on wheels” wagons that rolled throughout the event. Saskatoon Cycles offered bike valet and complimentary tune-ups.
Of course, no Saskatchewan celebration would be complete without food. Guests had their pick of popcorn, cotton candy and barbecue fare.
People were encouraged to check in upon arrival to receive a schedule of events, a park map and to ask any questions. All entertainment and activities were free and family friendly.
Varsity View has a notable history. According to the , author Farley Mowat once lived in the neighbourhood, as did politicians Sidney L. Buckwold, Senator Lillian Dyck and the Hon. J.W. Grant MacEwan.
The website also reflects the strong community pride and collaborative spirit in Varsity View.
General history
Due to its close proximity to the University of Saskatchewan, Varsity View has had a unique relationship with the university from the beginning. The U of S was established in 1907, before the concept of Varsity View existed. Before becoming the neighbourhood it is today, the area was made up of University Annex, Bottomley Addition, Varsity Park, University View, College Park and Alexandra Park.
Much of the land was originally owned by the City of Saskatoon for street development and parkland.
According to the association’s history page, the name Varsity View did not come into use until at least the 1980s. In 1986, the area was still divided into the Albert and Brunskill communities.
Varsity View is currently bounded by College Drive to the north, Eighth Street East to the south, Cumberland Avenue to the east, and Clarence Avenue to the west.
Those interested in learning more can contact the Saskatoon Public Library’s Local History Room, the City Archives or the Saskatoon Heritage Society.
Varsity View and neighbouring Grosvenor Park are dynamic communities bordering the University of Saskatchewan and close to the Meewasin Valley. The area’s population includes students, seniors and growing families.
The Varsity View Community Association is a volunteer-run group that welcomes new members. It delivers recreational and leisure programs, runs youth sports, organizes events, and maintains the outdoor rink at Brunskill School.
