July 13, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Fort St. John, Festivals & Events
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Being a Canadian resident for all my life, I have never had the opportunity to experience a Canada Day parade. When I found out that the City of Fort St. John has a parade each year on this special day, my body was roaring with excitement. What would this parade entail??? The only parade I have ever experienced in the past was followed by Santa riding a sleigh.
The parade was everything I had hoped for and more. The pride exhibited by the numerous individuals who came out on a cold, rainy day to watch the parade absolutely amazed me. There were residents of all ages waving Canadian flags with excitement. Children and adults had Canadian flags tattooed to their faces and most people wore red and white.
The floats were all very well done. Several exhibited different cultures which I really enjoyed as it reinforced the fact that our country is one big salad bowl. I felt sorry for some of the dancers who danced their way through the parade shoeless in the rain; however they continued to smile and enjoy themselves. I think it was wonderful that there were several live animals, mainly horses, marching as well, which made the event even more festive.
The parade was followed by several booths of activities. I have been told that usually the events are outside however due to the poor weather, they were forced to be in the arena. It didn’t faze the individuals, as they continued to enjoy themselves. There was tons of food, live music, and an enormous Canadian flag made entirely of cupcakes, which, of course, was my favourite part! All in all, the day was an enormous success. I definitely enjoyed my first ever Canada Day Parade!