‘It’s a big deal and a blessing’

Canada Day celebrations to include more diversity

Across the country, people, towns and organizations are preparing for Canadians’ favourite summer holiday.

Celebrated July 1, Canada Day is a special time for Canadians. With that in mind, the special events co-ordinator for the Town of Gander, Kelly Sceviour, is working to create an extraordinary experience for all those in the community.

“The big thing is we are adding diversity,” said Sceviour. “We have gone out and purposely tried to find some groups, entertainment or entertainers, that can bring that diversity to the lineup. We have a group performing (Nutriband) and they are bringing that multiculturalism to our festivities.”

Sceviour has been preparing for this day since November. She says although they are closing in on the celebrations there is still plenty of work to be done.

“We actually had to put our application to the federal government back in November to celebrate Canada,” said Sceviour. “There are still some last-minute items to attend to and some things we are still working on; in incorporating a diverse entertainment lineup we are trying to cater to those newcomers in our community, ones who might be celebrating Canada Day for the first time.”

Engaging community members is what’s most important to Sceviour.

“I think it’s important for the community to be engaged in what Canada means to us,” said Sceviour. “Our community has grown and we have a multitude of different nationalities who live here, families who have immigrated here have come down and it is so important for them to come and have fun and enjoy the entertainment and things we do but also for them to feel a part of the community is what is most important.”

The celebration will take place at Cobb’s Pond from 1 to 4 p.m. and will include bouncy castles, face painting, Canadian theme games and live music.

Sceviour says there is something for everyone and is she’s also excited to experience the festivities. She is also eager to see the community coming back together.

“Us event co-ordinators are very social people, so, I think the pandemic was extra hard on us,” said Sceviour. “It is going to be so nice to have people involved again. For me having everyone together again celebrating this country and community, I mean it’s a big deal and a blessing we shouldn’t take for granted.”

With this being the first in-person celebration since the pandemic, expectations are high and Sceviour plans to deliver.

“This is a good opportunity for those to get back out there and put their feet in the water,” said Sceviour. “We are really hoping to give people their sense of community back and by executing a diverse day we believe it will open many new lanes for future celebrations and festivals.”