There may not be any fireworks, but the Village of Fraser Lake is still promising a lot of fun ways to celebrate Canada Day.
This year’s ‘epic’ fireworks show set for midnight at White Swan Park was cancelled amid what Environment Canada called a dangerous long-duration heatwave and fire bans and restrictions by the Prince George Fire Centre.
The July 1st festivities coinciding with what is known as Mouse Mountain Days is set to kick off at 8 a.m. with a pancake breakfast by donation at the Legion served by Fraser Lake Mayor and Council.
A parade to thank front line workers is scheduled to follow starting at 11:30 a.m. from FLESS and finishing up at the arena and soccer fields where community celebrations including a kids zone, mini rail, car show, music and vendors will run until 4 p.m.
Read More: Canada Day shouldn’t be cancelled, instead focus on uniting: Indigenous MLA Ellis Ross
“We pared back our celebrations just with COVID in mind, but we chose the activities that we felt could be done in a COVID responsible manner,” said chief administrative officer Rod Holland. “From initial remarks from the public, people are very excited to be able to have those activities in town.”
Holland said the village has had good support from their local First Nations communities, noting Stellat’en and Nadleh Whut’en leaders are also anticipated to attend with former Stellat’en Chief Archie Patrick providing an opening prayer.
The District of Fort St James, meanwhile, will be marking Canada Day virtually with activities such as a door decorating contest, scavenger hunt and craft activities.
There won’t be any celebrations this year in Vanderhoof due to provincial COVID-19 restrictions, Mayor Gerry Thiessen confirmed.
Vanderhoof resident Anika Wallace said an art night will be hosted at Riverside Park from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. in solidarity with Saik’uz and other First Nations.
“All the pieces we make will be put up around in business windows to show Vanderhoof’s solidarity and support,” Wallace said on Facebook. “There will be an acknowledgement of the land to start the event off and everyone is welcome to join.”
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