Mayor Tim Johnston had pledged that Thompson’s participation in Manitoba Homecoming 2010 would include a “grand social, Thompson style”, and the lineup in place for the Civic Holiday weekend certainly fits that bill.

Many city attractions are opening their doors to Homecoming crowds between July 30 and August 2. Those in attendance will have no shortage of potential destinations—“you can go visit the King Miner, you can go visit the Spirit Way,” said Chris Sharpe, Thompson’s culture co-ordinator, as only a small fraction of the options available. McCreedy Campground Park is providing tours of both Pisew Falls and the City of Thompson itself, while tourists are also encouraged to visit the Thompson Zoo and the Heritage North Museum (at normal prices where applicable).

On Saturday, July 31, the Burntwood Regional Health Authority is offering free hospital tours as well as a barbecue, which gets underway at 1 p.m. However, the bulk of activity will be found at C.A. Nesbitt Arena—“it’ll be the hub,” said Sharpe.

The arena’s scheduled activities get underway on the evening of Friday, July 30, with a concert from local rock singer Michael Juneau, followed by a dance team and a community dance led with a performance by DJ Fin-S, who Sharpe describes as “western Canada’s number-one DJ”, and who handled similar duties at Thompson’s Canada Day celebration earlier this month.

Saturday kicks off with children’s activities in the afternoon, including a Guitar Hero tournament and face-painting. A “homecoming feast” of beef on a bun will be prepared for 6 p.m., followed by another concert celebration Saturday night, including performances by Al Starling, Don Amero, and rock funk singer Freeze, followed by another dance with video screens.

Sunday afternoon kicks off at 1 p.m. with more Guitar Hero and Rock Band, followed by an obstacle course and other kids’ activities through the afternoon. An evening concert features Manitoban folk singer Ryelee as well as an AC/DC cover band. Other events will be organized by community groups.

“People should come out because it’s something to celebrate,” Sharpe said. “People should return to Thompson to see how it has grown and changed.” The theme of Thompson Homecoming 2010 is “Celebrate Our Amazing Community.” Thompson was in the running to host the official provincial 140th birthday celebration in May, but along with La Salle, La Broquerie, and Morden, fell short in an online poll, losing to Neepawa.