A free afternoon concert and lemonade fundraiser was held Saturday at Northview Park in Pointe‑Claire, marking a decade of support for the Montreal Children’s Hospital. Organized by the local group Lyrics and Lemonade in partnership with the hospital, the event offered families and community members a chance to enjoy live music while contributing to a cause that has grown from modest beginnings.
The celebration drew a crowd of residents who gathered under the park’s shade trees to listen to a lineup of local musicians performing throughout the afternoon. Stalls set up along the park’s pathways served freshly squeezed lemonade, the signature offering that gave the fundraiser its name. All proceeds from the beverage sales were directed to the children’s hospital, continuing a tradition of community‑driven philanthropy.
Lyrics and Lemonade began ten years ago as a simple lemonade stand outside a neighborhood school, with the aim of raising modest sums for sick children. Over the years, the initiative expanded, adding musical performances and larger fundraising goals. This year’s event reflected that evolution, combining the original lemonade sales with a full concert program, while keeping admission free to encourage broad participation.
Representatives from the Montreal Children’s Hospital highlighted the importance of such grassroots efforts in supplementing the hospital’s budget for pediatric care, equipment, and family support services. Although no specific donation totals were disclosed, organizers emphasized that the cumulative contributions over the ten‑year span have played a meaningful role in enhancing patient experiences.
Volunteers from the community helped set up the stage, manage the lemonade stations, and coordinate crowd flow, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for attendees of all ages. The atmosphere was described as festive, with families sharing meals on picnic blankets, children playing nearby, and the music providing a backdrop of celebration.
As the sun began to set, the final song marked both the conclusion of the concert and the ongoing commitment of Lyrics and Lemonade to the hospital’s mission. Organizers indicated that plans are already underway for future events, aiming to keep the tradition alive for another decade of support.
The day underscored how a simple idea—selling lemonade for a cause—can evolve into a community staple that benefits vulnerable children across Montreal.