After a slight hiccup, Canada Day celebrations will once again take place over two days in Langley.
Concerns with funding forced the Langley Canada Day Society to consider downsizing their celebration to only one day, but a recent surge in sponsors has allowed them to once again host events on both June 30 and July 1, making Langley the only two-day Canada Day celebration in all of Western Canada.
“These things happen, but the board of directors worked really hard, some sponsors came forward, we made a few little readjustments and we’re ready for two days. We couldn’t let it go. We had to keep the tradition going,” said Lilianne Fuller, Langley Canada Day Society media director.
With more than 50,000 people expected to come to the event, organizers are now looking for extra volunteers.
An orientation will be held at the McLeod Athletic Park picnic area on June 23 at 2 p.m. for those interested.
“Without the generously of our volunteers, we would not be able to have this event for our Community,” said Cheryl Tallman, Canada Day Society vice-president. “We really have a great time meeting and working with our volunteers, and look forward to meeting all our new volunteers this year and seeing those who joined us last year return for another fun filled weekend.”
This year the Canada Day Society has outdone themselves, hosting a number of exciting family events.
In addition to non-stop field entertainment and midway rides, both days will feature special shows and demonstrations. The Dogwood Pacesetters Canine Sports team will be presenting their dog show “come and watch the antics of your four-legged best friends,” and the B.C. Lions will be stopping for a visit on July 1 from 2 to 3 p.m.
The Laughing Stock Ranch will be hosting pony rides for kids, and Lutini the magician will wonder the grounds performing magic tricks.
The LAMB Motoring Club will be hosting a Show ‘N’ Shine from 11-3 p.m.
Head over to the stage to enjoy live performances by Danny Echo, Steve Elliot & the Blue Suede Boys, Freeflow, Champagne Republic, Robyn & Ryleigh, ABRA Cadabra, Michael Buble impersonator Sway, and more.
On June 30 at 1 p.m. the first ever Voice of Langley contest will take the stage. The winner of this singing competition will receive $100 and a song demo recording session at Static Wave Studios. Sign up is available online.
Also new this year, on June 30 there will be a movie in the park at 9:45 p.m. and a fireworks celebration at 10:30 p.m. on July 1 only.
“We have something for everyone, it’s very family friendly. That’s what makes us a little bit different from other celebrations. Ours is for the whole family,” Fuller said.
The event will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on June 30 and July 1 at McLeod Athletic Park (216 Street and 56 Avenue).
For more information on events and show times visit www.langleycanadaday.ca. For volunteering information, email volunteering coordinator Tammy Bozzard at info@langleycanadaday.ca.
The Times will publish a Canada Day supplement with more details on Tuesday.