The annual Midnight Madness hit the Bolton valley again Friday night, and there was a large and enthused crowd out to enjoy the fun. The attractions included this petting zoo, and Christina Oppedisano of Bolton was helping her daughters Julia, 4, and Sofia, 2, feed the animals.

The crowds came out to enjoy the fun Friday night for the annual Midnight Madness festivities in Downtown Bolton. The annual celebration, put on by the local Business Improvement Area (BIA), attracted an estimated 8,000 people, according to BIA President Jimmy Pountney. “It’s the biggest crowd I’ve had in my three years of doing it,” he declared. “It’s a Bolton tradition. It’s a staple.” There were lots of fun things going on to attract the crowds. Circus Jonathan was back to show his juggling and acrobatic skills, and to meet admirers, such as Vera Stathakis, 2, of Bolton.
Photos by Bill Rea

Great music came from the main stage, including the sounds of the Bob Parkins Jazz Quintet. The group included Parkins, Eric Mahar, Jonas Pearson-Paavola, Justin McHugh and John Pelosi.

These students of Bolton Taekwondo entertained the crowds with demonstrations.

Bardos-Chicago consisted of Andy Veit, Bill Tracey, Rob Bardos and Roman Chicago.

Michael Orford and Yvonne Devins were representing Lifepoint Community Church, which meets at Empire Theatres.

Dufferin-Caledon MPP Sylvia Jones had lots of glow sticks to hand out.

Personnel from the local fire hall were taking part in the Madness, letting the young folks like Marcus Rodrigues, 5, of Bolton check out their equipment.

Bolton Rotarians were among those cooking up food for the hungry folks attending the Madness, including Scott Fraser, Frank Macellaio and Karen Fast.

Pockets the Clown was painting faces outside The Mortgage Centre offices. Jessica Vella, 5, of Bolton was one of her customers.

Susan Smythe, of Humber Valley Dental, was among those passing out popcorn.

The staff at the John H. Glenn State Farm office were represented at the Madness offering face painting. Patrizia Eltalawy was working on a creation for Owen Beasley, 4, of Bolton.