Sylvia Jones MPP — Come out to celebrate Canada Day!

June 28, 2013 · 0 Comments

Each year I am invited to Canada Day celebrations across Dufferin-Caledon, and as I travel to our many communities and events throughout the day, I am amazed by the variety of activities that are available for everyone to enjoy.
It seems that each year the celebrations just keep getting bigger and better.
Canada Day, marking our nation’s 146th birthday, is about recognizing and celebrating this great country and taking some time to acknowledge what it means to live in Canada.
This year, I will start my day at Downey’s Farm Market on Heart Lake Road in Caledon, where John Downey, his family and staff host a full day of Canada Day activities. Save your appetite for pancakes and an abundant supply of delicious strawberries treats. Join us for opening ceremonies at 10:30 a.m. and don’t forget to stop into the farm market for some fresh produce to take home.
Next stop is the 25th annual Caledon Agricultural Society’s Strawberry Festival in Caledon village at the fairgrounds. Be sure to bring your sweet tooth, because strawberry delicacies are plentiful. The opening ceremonies begin at noon, but the gates are open at 9 a.m. with live entertainment, classic cars, a kids’ zone, crafts, vendors and a canine agility demonstration. I look forward to seeing you there!
At 2 p.m. I will be making a stop at the Royal Canadian Legion in Orangeville for opening ceremonies with our veterans who host celebrations, that begin at noon and end at 7 p.m. Take some time to drop in and say thank you to those who heeded the call and served to protect the freedoms we celebrate Canada Day.
After that, I will be participating in the opening ceremonies in Shelburne at the Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex where it has become tradition that Mayor Ed Crewson, MP David Tilson and I sing O Canada at 3 p.m.
Other events planned in Dufferin-Caledon include Orangeville’s evening events, organized by the Rotary Club of Orangeville Highlands. This year there is a change in venue and activities will kick off at 7 p.m. at the Alder Street Arena. Fun for all ages will be taking place outside (behind the arena), including rock climbing, arts and crafts, a Zumba party and live entertainment. Don’t miss the fireworks!
At noon until 4 p.m. the Township of Amaranth is hosting Canada Day activities that involve an antique tractors exhibit, pony rides, EMS and a military display, live music and a free barbecue.
At 4 p.m. at the Albion Hills Conservation Area, Canada Day celebrations start with a line-up of activities — live music, a magic show, activities for kids and the grand finale — fireworks!
As you can see, there is a wide range of activities and several chances to see fireworks. Although I cannot get to every single celebration, I know that Canada Day pride is alive and well in Dufferin-Caledon. Putting together a community celebration like Canada Day involves many volunteers who willingly give of their time to make July 1 special. Volunteers are the heart of our community, so please take a moment to thank the many important volunteers as you enjoy Canada Day with your family and friends.