Canada Day in Victoria means twice the fun this year.
With July 1 falling on a Monday, the City of Victoria has decided to hold two days of family-friendly events, multicultural performances, food and fireworks at the Inner Harbour.
“It’s a great opportunity for the organizations who are operating the food kiosks,” said Coun. Charlayne Thornton-Joe, Canada Day organizer for the City of Victoria, which will put on events Sunday in addition to the holiday Monday.
“Plus, it is an extra day to showcase some of the programs put on by local community groups.”
People have the opportunity to be part of a living Canada flag, donning red or white T-shirts to form a Maple Leaf on the legislature lawn.
They can listen to Canadian musical artists, including Montreal-based singer Caracol, who has been nominated for Juno and Canadian Folk Music awards. Local artists include Acres of Lions, with their pop-rock anthems, and indie singer Kathryn Calder.
There will also be green initiatives, including biodegradable food containers and increased recycling opportunities, and a bike valet service, offering people a safe place to lock up their bicycles.
For Thornton-Joe, the sight of thousands singing O Canada while watching fireworks lighting the sky is the stuff memories are made of. “It sends shivers down my spine when I see all those people stand up and sing together.”
For information, go to victoriacanadaday.ca.
