Chemainus is used to welcoming in around 4,000 people on Canada Day, but this year it’s going to be much quieter due to the COVID-19 pandemic prohibiting large public gatherings.
But that doesn’t mean Canada Day is going to be ignored entirely. Summer events that aren’t being cancelled are taking more of a digital approach and that’s the case with the holiday in Chemainus.
“We are still celebrating, just differently,” noted Krystal Adams, the Chemainus Business Improvement Association’s executive director.
Typically, the CBIA is responsible for bringing together many organizations in town to host a joint celebration.
“Because we will be doing something a little different, we have had to be inventive,” added Adams.
The organization has picked multiple days from Friday through Wednesday and will be focusing on something different each day. There will be something for everyone – from Canada swag giveaways and a contest with a $250 prize to bagpipers and dancers who will be circulating in town on the actual day itself.
The one thing being encouraged is for everyone to decorate their house, self or car and to stand outside at 1 p.m. Canada Day to make some noise.
“We’re really thinking outside the box this year by even including little things in the print ad you will find in this edition – with a zen style colouring block full of all things summer,” Adams indicated. “Regardless of how different this year is, the direction is clear that Canada Day is still worth celebrating even if just making noise from your front lawn.”
The days of note are as follows:
Friday, June 26 - Canada Swag
Pick up your free Canada swag in CBIA businesses with any purchase (limited supply, one per customer).
Saturday, June 27 - Play, hum or sing
Send in a video clip of your rendition of the national anthem to be featured in a Chemainus Video (info@chemainusbia.com).
Sunday, June 28 - Decorate With Pride
Decorate yourself, house or car and upload a photo on the CBIA website for a chance to win.
Monday, June 29 - Canada Day Spirit
Tell why you love Canada or share a heart-warming Canada story on the website for a chance to win.
Tuesday, June 30 - Walkabout Town
Staying socially distant, take a look at business windows Tuesday morning for an exciting town game. Simply solve, take a photo and submit to the website for a chance to win (details released online Tuesday morning).
Wednesday, July 1 – CANADA DAY
At 1 p.m. make some noise while bagpipers and dancers tour around town.
Ring in your love for Canada standing on your front lawn, bang some pots, clap your hands, honk your horns or hoot and holler. Meanwhile, the Cowichan Pipes & Drums will be winding through some main and residential streets accompanied by Summit Dance. When you hear them, get back out there and make some more noise.
Anytime after 9 a.m., go online. Head to the Canada Day website with songs and memories of Canada Days past, plus the announcement of all winners.
