Once again, fireworks won’t be part of Vernon’s Canada Day celebrations this year, but there’s still a host of events and entertainment to look forward to.
The North Okanagan Canada Day Society is requesting city approval for its 2023 Canada Day celebrations.
As was the case last year, the society won’t be having a firework display “due to the hazardous nature of them,” reads a report to council.
While there won’t be a fireworks show, the society has a fun-filled day of events planned in Polson Park.
The event will be free to attend and will have activities suitable for all ages.
The Vernon Parks Department will be holding a pop-up water park that will replace last year’s water gun fight area.
Like last year, Okanagan Skate Co. is hosting a skate competition in the Polson Park skate park.
There will also be a “Fruitfest” to help promote nutrition and local farmers.
“Last year we gave away $1,000 worth of strawberries as snacks instead of cake,” the society said.
This year’s festivities coincide with the Polson Artisan Night Market, featuring local artisans and food trucks.
Local music will be played from noon until 9:30 p.m. Artists include Larissa MacNeill, Duane Marchand, Cat Wells and Del Rango & the D-railers.
A kids bike parade will take place around 2 p.m. and there are plans to source additional bike parking to encourage alternative transportation to the park.
Also, a series of “selfie canvases” painted by local artists will be in the park for folks to take pictures in front of.
Among the society’s requests to the city for the festivities are tables and chairs, six portable toilets, onsite traffic control for assistance with parking and a temporary permit for entertainment.
The society will present its plans to council on Monday, June 12.
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