After two years of virtual Canada Day activities because of the pandemic, in-person celebrations are returning to the Municipality of Port Hope on Friday, July 1st.
Activities include the return of traditional favourites such as the Canada Day parade, a party in Memorial Park, wagon rides, live music, and a fireworks display.
“Together with our community partners, we’re hosting an impressive festival of music, food, and culture, and welcoming our community to gather safely once again,” says mayor Bob Sanderson in a media release. “Masks are not required at this event, but we respect everyone’s personal choices and comfort levels when it comes to wearing personal protective equipment at our events and activities.”
Celebrations begin on Thursday, June 30th with a dusk screening of the Disney film Luca in Memorial Park.
On Canada Day, a show ‘n’ shine car show featuring antique, classic, and custom vehicle takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the front lawn of Town Hall and Rotary Park. There will be Yoga in the Park session on the back lawn of Town Hall from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The Canada Day parade begins at 11 a.m., with a modified route to accommodate construction on Walton Street. The parade will start on Walton Street at Pine Street and proceed east to Queen Street, and then south along Queen Street to Robertson Street. Official opening ceremonies will follow at 11:45 a.m. at the bandshell in Memorial Park.
VIDEO: Canada Day in Port Hope
Also at 11 a.m., refreshment gardens will open in Memorial Park, hosted by the Port Hope and District Agricultural Society, with activity stations available in the park until 5 p.m.
Wagon rides through downtown Port Hope will be available from noon until 3 p.m.
The schedule of live music performances at Memorial Park includes Joe Harvey and Cruisin’ from noon until 2 p.m., Soul Shakers Union from 2 to 4 p.m., The Buzz from 4 to 6 p.m., Martell x Walker from 6 to 8 p.m., and Storm the Palace from 8 to 10 p.m.
The live music will be followed at 10:15 p.m. by a spectacular fireworks display launched at the pier.
Mayor Sanderson notes that, while a full day of in-person celebrations is returning to Port Hope, “Canada Day is not observed by all people in our country.”
“Reflecting on the origins of our land and the unique and heritage culture of First Nation, Inuit and Métis peoples who have shaped our country is imperative for all Canadians,” he says.
For more information on Canada Day celebrations in Port Hope, visit porthope.ca/canada-day.
