If there is one thing Drumheller excels at, it is celebrating Canada’s birthday.
The theme of this year’s Canada Day Parade is “Dinosaur Capital of the World.”
And what’s not to celebrate? Drumheller is world renowned for the incredible specimens that have been unearthed in the valley, the prehistoric topography that attracts provincial, national and international visitors, and, of course, the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which attracts hundreds of thousands every year to explore the spectre of the prehistoric past.
Also, save for some technicalities from Guinness, the community was on the brink of setting the world record for the Largest Gathering of People Dressed as Dinosaurs.
The Canada Day parade is also recognizing the centennial of the Rotary Club in Drumheller. For the last 100 years, the club has been serving the community through various efforts. Indeed, a feat to be recognized.
The Canada Day parade goes at 10 a.m. on July 1. Those participating can begin to form up in the Riverside area as early as 7:30 a.m. Check-in is on 11th Street East near the old St. Anthony’s School.
The parade follows its well-established route, starting on Riverside Drive and then heading up 3rd Avenue East into Downtown Drumheller. It then heads south on 1st Street West to Railway Avenue and heads back east and wraps up near 7-11.
There will be volunteer marshals along the parade route to make sure everything runs smoothly. Please be aware and respect the route and volunteers. Parade entries are allowed to distribute candy and handouts, but please do not throw candy, hand it to the revelers to make sure everything runs safely.
As for all of those who attempted to break the Largest Gathering of People Dressed as Dinosaurs record, don’t put your suit away just yet. Organizers are inviting all those who participated to wear those fun costumes, flaunt them, and join the back of the parade.
After that, the celebrations continue throughout the day. See page 10 for a schedule of events throughout the community, culminating in Fireworks at 11 p.m.
Enjoy your Canada Day
be safe and have fun!
