In a few days Drumheller, and the nation as a whole, will be celebrating one of the biggest days of the year. On Sunday, July 1, the streets will be alive with patriotism for Canada.
There will be events throughout the day, but things kick into high gear at noon for the annual Drumheller Canada Day Parade. This year, the theme is “The Good Life.”
“In previous years, the theme was targeted to specific celebrations or anniversaries. With next year being Drumheller’s centennial, we know things will be planned around that. This year, we wanted people to have a little free reign with what they did with their float,” said Roxanne Clark, projects coordinator and chamber assistant with the Drumheller & District Chamber of Commerce. “We want people to let their float show the things they are thankful for, make them happy, and just have fun with it.”
There are roughly 50 floats registered so far, but the Chamber is accepting more. Those who are interested can find registration forms at the Chamber office at the World’s Largest Dinosaur or online at www.drumhellerchamber.com.
The floats will be judged at 11 a.m.
“It’s not meant to be anything too competitive. The judges go around and award first, second, and third place in each category,” said Clark.
The parade begins at noon and lasts until roughly 2 p.m., but there is more in store for the day. Festivities at the Rotary Spray Park will begin at 2 p.m. with live music from eight bands, including the Fire Coulee Bandits, Roadside Attraction, Cat Country Cougar Hunters, The Lanigan Band, HooDoo Voodoo, Starland Sadie, and TIR NAN OG.
On top of live entertainment there will be an inflatable super slide, obstacle course, reverse bungie, and bouncy castle, children’s crafts, professional face painting and more.
“We’re going to have a variety of activities for everyone of all ages,” said Cathy Smoliak, FCSS coordinator with the Town of Drumheller.
At 6 p.m. at the Spray Park will be the singing of O Canada and the cutting of Canada’s birthday cake. Fireworks will start around 11 p.m. and will be set off on the north bank of the river across from the Spray Park.
“Canada Day is a big celebration in our community, perhaps the biggest event of the year. We put a lot of energy and creativity in the day. We look at the local talent we have and activities that are inclusive and family oriented,” said Smoliak. “It’s coming together and we’re all excited for the big day.”
