From live music to food trucks and family-friendly activities, there was no shortage of ways to celebrate Canada Day at Penticton’s Gyro Park on Saturday, July 1.
The park is hosting day-long festivities in recognition of the nation’s 156th birthday.
“What a great day to celebrate Canada,” said South Okanagan-West Kootenay MP Richard Cannings, in front of a large crowd during the event’s opening ceremony. “Penticton, I would say, is the best place to live in Canada and Canada is the best place to live in the world.”
“Let’s enjoy what Canada is all about and have a really good time today,” Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield added.
The day was marked with family-friendly fun, with bouncy castles, Canada-themed face painting and a goat petting area among the highlights.
With Okanagan Beach full of locals and tourists alike, and Penticton’s usual Saturday markets, the downtown crowds were large for the holiday party.
“I am amazed at the turnout today and honoured to be here,” said Penticton Indian Band Chief Greg Gabriel. “Our land is beautiful so I encourage you to take in the beauty of our surroundings.”
Ari Neufeld, Brother Luck, Feet First, Jack and Jill and the Penticton Concert Band were among the musical acts to grace the Gyro Park stage on Saturday.
The city’s concert band played the national anthem prior to the day’s opening ceremony.
Fireworks at Okanagan Lake Park, hosted by the Lakeside Resort, will cap off Canada Day celebrations in Penticton. The show is expected to start at 10 p.m.
“Let’s celebrate this incredible country that we all call home,” said Penticton MLA Dan Ashton.
QUIZ: How much do you really know about Canada?
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