2012 Canada Day Parade - Sunday July 1
The 35th annual Canada Day Parade will kick off events marking Canada's 145th birthday on Sunday, July 1. In honour of Port Alberni's centennial, our theme this year is "Celebrate our History!."
Over 70 registered entries will head down the parade route again this year, followed by the flag-raising ceremony at Glenwood. Join in singing "O Canada" for the opening ceremonies, then enjoy the giant birthday cake generously provided by Canada Safeway. Next up, stage entertainment will showcase both favorite and brand-new talent. All of these are free. Want more? An ethnic food fair lets your taste buds travel round the world at very reasonable cost.
Parade Start Time -- 10:00 am!
For spectators, viewing is along 10th Avenue, from Burde to Hollywood. There are 2 reviewing stands, both equipped with loudspeakers. The Safeway reviewing stand is at the 10th Avenue entrance to Safeway, hosted by Elliot Drew. 2012 marks Elliot's fifth year as volunteer commentator. The Shaw Cable reviewing stand at Echo Centre is hosted by Shaw staff and volunteers as a community service.
Over 70 entries again this year!
Come see our VIP Centennial entries along with your favorite veteran entries, including the Beaufort Gang, the Port Alberni Toy Run, and the Western Vancouver Island Industrial Heritage Society. There are 18 brand-new entries this year. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council is celebrating the up-coming Tlu-piich Games, and Tseshaht First Nation showcases a 22 - foot canoe. The Port Alberni Maritime Heritage Society and the Alberni Puddle Duck Racers will add to the variety of boats, with the Alberni Valley Tyee Club to round out some of the marine entries. Local businesses are also well-represented, so look for some really creative entries from them too. Valley sports groups, service clubs, first responders, and motorcycle clubs add to this big, fun, community event. And watch for a certain electric bike with more Canadian flags than you can count.
All of these groups support our community by their work throughout the year, making history here and now. They're making a special effort to celebrate Canada's birthday with us, so come on out and show your appreciation for them on Sunday July 1.
Come and "Celebrate our History!"
Put on your Red and White in honour of Canada Day! Bring a flag to wave, a hat to wear, sunscreen, water and a baggie to take away any litter. Pets are best left in comfort at home. Sudden noises and unexpected movements along the parade route can distress even the best-behaved animal.
Canada Day Events Schedule:
10:00 am -- Parade start (along 10th Avenue, from Burde to Hollywood) Canada Day Events at Glenwood:
11:30 am -- Flag-raising
11:45 am -- Opening ceremonies followed by Canada's birthday cake (free!)
12:15 pm -- Entertainment Showcase starts
All of the above are free.
Also enjoy our ethnic Food Fair at very reasonable prices
The Port Alberni Folkfest Multicultural Society is a small group of dedicated volunteers who organize the annual Canada Day events in Port Alberni. Their goal is to raise awareness of this great country called Canada, and pride in being Canadian by celebrating Canada's birthday each year. Even if you only have an hour or two to spare on June 30 or July 1, it would be a big help to this tiny committee. To volunteer, call 724-0608.
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