Canada Day 2022 was a time for reflection and family fun in New Westminster.
The City of New Westminster encouraged community members to reflect on the common elements found in all cultures – family, food, movement and creativity – by offering a variety of free activities in city parks from June 30 to July 3. Activities included arts and yoga in Queen’s Park, a drumming workshop in Moody Park, a ukulele workshop in Sapperton Park and a New West Craft Summer Night Market on Saturday at River Market.
On Friday, July 1, folks of all ages headed to Westminster Pier Park to enjoy live music, where a new local group was featured every hour throughout the afternoon. Under sunny skies, community members enjoyed performances by Francis Henson, Super Krystal, Elliott Slinn, Marry Me and Sugarfungus.
In addition to incorporating Salish artwork into its Canada Day graphic as a symbol of the city’s commitment to truth and reconciliation, the City of New Westminster encouraged citizens to acknowledge Canada’s history of violence against the First Peoples of this land. It suggested that one way to reflect is by wearing orange on Canada Day in the spirit of healing and reconciliation – and many community members and performers did just that.
While many residents headed to the waterfront on Friday night, expecting to see a Canada Day fireworks display, none had been planned. The Hyack Festival Association, however, is planning a Farewell to Summer Fireworks Festival on Saturday, Aug. 27 – details to come.
