Canada Day in Meadow Lake is once again expected to go off with a bang. The city’s parks and recreation department has a series of funfilled activities scheduled for July 1 and is encouraging community members of all ages to visit Lions Park in celebration of Canada’s 157th birthday.

“It’s going to be quite similar to what we organized last year,” explained Brittani Dunsing, the city’s aquatics manager, when discussing the happenings scheduled for that day. Originally, the city was planning a pancake breakfast at the Lions Park canteen, an attraction that proved quite popular last year. This year’s breakfast has since been cancelled. Things will, however, get rolling in the afternoon with games and activities. “There will be bouncy castles, glitter tattoos, yard games and crafts – it’s for the kids or for anyone to enjoy,” Dunsing said. The games and activities will run from 2-4 p.m. and will take place near the Lions Park football field.

“We won’t be over by the amphitheatre,” Dunsing said, confirming there will be no live entertainment again this year. An official Canada Day cake cutting was also planned as part of the afternoon festivities, but that too has been called off. “That evening, as long as we don’t get rained out, we will have fireworks starting around 10:30 p.m. or as soon as it’s dark enough,” Dunsing added. “It could be a little bit later.” Dunsing went on to say she is optimistic a large number of Meadow Lake residents and visitors will take in the Canada Day celebration. “Come out, bring the kids or yourself to enjoy our beautiful Lions Park,” she said. “Hope fully we will have some wonderful weather we can enjoy. We’ve been so lucky this week, so hopefully that continues on for Canada Day.”

This was echoed by parks and recreation manager Regan Beck. “Canada Day is always a key part of the summer,” Beck stated. “As a young person growing up, that always marked the start of the season. You really enjoyed the celebration, and then you rolled right into your summer break. It’s a real benchmark for the summer and it’s good to celebrate and be proud of where we’re from, as well as the opportunities we have in this country.” Beck is also hopeful Mother Nature, unlike last year, will cooperate, especially when it comes to the evening’s fireworks display. “We’ve had so much rain in June we’re bound to get lucky for July 1,” he said. “We’re due.”