In a normal year, events committees across the County would be finalizing plans for Canada Day celebrations.
However, with COVID-19, Canada Day as we’ve known it in the past has been cancelled locally.
Minden Hills Coun. Jennifer Hughey said with the province’s state of emergency extended to June 30 and restrictions on public gatherings, the events committee had to naturally shelve the party for July 1.
However, she encouraged locals to join with other Canadians in viewing virtual celebrations across the land. In Minden, she said there’s no reason social circles can’t get together to mark the nation’s birthday at home or at the cottage.
“The committee is saddened not to be able to put on the show. We always attempt to be better and do better every year. But while discouraging for us, we encourage people to watch along with the nation, and celebrate at home with their families,” Hughey said.
Algonquin Highlands Mayor Carol Moffatt said they’re also disappointed that so many of their community events have been cancelled, including Canada Day.
“Our community volunteers work hard to put on events like Canada Day but we’ll re-group next year and be back to celebrate with bells on,” she said. “Hopefully folks will still celebrate Canada Day in their respective bubbles. It’s also my hope that we’ll take the opportunity to reflect on what this day means within the broader context of the recent global events; with the goal of acknowledging and seeking a deeper understanding of the full heritage of this great land and all its people.”
Highlands East Chief Administrative Officer/Treasurer Shannon Hunter said, “we are not holding Canada Day festivities. Hopefully next year will be bigger and better.”
Dysart et al always marks Canada Day with events in West Guilford but recreation co-ordinator Andrea Mueller confirmed it’s a no-go for this year as well.
Some virtual offerings:
• The Federal Government is leading a virtual Canada Day. Google, OH Canada! Canada Day 2020 or visit canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/ campaigns/canada-day.html
• snapd has created a virtual fireworks experience that will give people throughout the country something to commemorate Canada Day with from the comfort of their own backyards, balconies or living rooms. They say they’ll showcase a number of unique and memorable activities that families can enjoy throughout the day, culminating in fireworks, and featuring Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield at 9:30 p.m. People can access by downloading the snapd HUB app on their mobile device.
