Plans are firming up for a big July 1 Canada Day celebration in Boitanio Park with a host of activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Official ceremonies by the Royal Canadian Legion, the Williams Lake Pipe Band and a welcome to traditional Secwepemc territory will commence after the Daybreak Rotary’s Stampede Parade.
This year’s performance lineup includes First Nations drummers and hoop dancers, the Lucier Brothers, Rebecca Solomon and the Williams Lake Community Band.
Throughout the park there will be activities reflecting Canada’s 150-plus years and opportunities for people to express what they would like the future to look like.
Some active fun during the day will give people a chance to try family-friendly activities such as axe throwing, Highland games, cheer leading and table tennis.
There will also be some quiet space under the trees to relax, listen to Secwepemc stories of the land and people, and enjoy some Canadian books, quotes and poetry.
Visit the commemorative time capsule where the community can bring a photo or write or draw what they would like to share with others in 25 years.
The 150 Mile School House, the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, Secwepemc and Tsilhqot’in Elders, and the Canadian Mental Health Association Multiculturalism Program are providing numerous traditional and heritage activities.
The Big Sky District Girl Guides will be showcasing their heritage uniforms throughout the day along with providing free face painting.
Many local businesses and organizations are sponsoring a Skateboard and BMX Jam, starting at 11:30 a.m. at the Nathan Mathews Memorial Skate Park.
All ages and levels are encouraged to participate.
The Williams Lake Quilters will be showcasing a selection of their Canada-themed quilts, along with demonstrations from the Williams Lake Spinners and Weavers.
Don’t pack a lunch, as delicious foods such as curry, burgers, chicken and mini donuts will be available. There will also be small businesses selling jewelry, novelty items, and woodworking, and doing glitter painting, henna and air brush tattooing.
Save on Foods will be serving cupcakes at around 1 p.m.
This year’s event is organized by 150 Mile Schoolhouse, Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin, the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, Canadian Mental Health Association Multiculturalism Program, Young Catalyst, passionate volunteers and Recreation Services. Funding for the Canada Day event is provided by the Government of Canada, Cariboo Regional District and City of Williams Lake.
Please contact Suzanne Cochrane, Recreation Programmer or Denise Skarra, Recreation Coordinator at 250-398-7665 for more information.