30 Artscene get people interested and excited about it." This is the second year of the event. Last year, it drew more than 2,000 people over the course of the weekend. About 25 percent of those visitors were from outside of Oakville, with many coming from across the Golden Horseshoe. "Everyone was so enthusiastic about the event," said Savage. Visitors were asked to fill out evaluation forms and the response was overwhelmingly positive. for example, every day of their lives and always wondering what went on inside and this gave them a chance to see that." Admission to the event is free, which is something that is · FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2009 Doors Open Oakville back and bigger for second year Event runs Sept. 26 and 27 By Tina Depko OAKVILLE BEAVER STAFF Have you ever wondered what St. Jude's Anglican Church looks like inside? What the story is behind the Oakville Lighthouse? How about what life was like for the first family who lived at Sovereign House? Doors Open Oakville is giving people a "We saw so many families, which was so nice," Savage said. "It is an event that really brings people together to celebrate the community." A unique aspect of the event is the presence of local musicians at several of the sites across town. All of the musicians are donating their time for the event, which demonstrates the volunteerism around this non-profit event. See Event page 32 chance to answer those questions and learn more about the community in which they live with a closer look at some of the town's most interesting buildings and monuments. This year's event runs Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. "We really want to make people more aware of the rich culture and heritage in Oakville," said Barb Savage, vice-president of the Oakville Historical Society and a Doors Open Oakville committee member. "There's so much history in Oakville and we want to "They loved the idea and they had a chance to see places that weren't normally open," said Bill Nesbitt, Oakville Museum supervisor and a member of the Doors Open Oakville committee. "People talked about driving by the Masonic Lodge, unique in this day and age where many events have a cost attached, organizers said. "There are so few free events for families and I think it is fantastic that it is free," Savage said. Doors Open Oakville drew visitors of all ages last year, including many families. This year, events are planned to keep kids busy, like ringing the bells at St. Jude's and a clay sculpting class at the Oakville Museum. The Harvest Festival will run at Lakeside Park on Sunday, featuring games for the children, exhibits and free apple cider. COME ON IN: Some of this year's 24 sites that will be open to visitors for Doors Open Oakville are (left to right) Turner Chapel, Oakville Lighthouse, Oakville Scout House and Fisherman's Memorial. Think North Hatley Think Discover the North Hatley door for classic carriage house charm. Call your Garaga Experts garage door consultant. Country charm 3170 Ridgeway Drive, Unit 19/20 Mississauga www.bmgaragedoor.com (905) 569-9133 /(866) 836-5553