Weekly Column – Celebrate Canada’s 150 in Dufferin-Caledon
July 1st marks Canada’s 150th birthday. It will be an historic weekend to celebrate our history and look forward to our future. Communities and organizations across Dufferin-Caledon have embraced the Canada 150 spirit and are hosting events throughout the riding.
Downey’s Farm on Heartlake Road in Caledon is hosting their Canada Day Celebrations and Strawberry Festival from 9am to 4pm. They will be serving pancakes topped with their famous strawberries and whipped cream and there are plenty of activities for the kids: pony rides, farm animals and you can pick your own delicious fresh strawberries
You and your family can also go to the Caledon Fairgrounds for the Caledon Day Strawberry Festival, organized by the Caledon Agricultural Society. The event runs from 8am to 4pm. There is free birthday cake and balloons at Noon to mark the opening ceremony. You can also enjoy an all-day strawberry breakfast, a classic car show, a village craft show and more.
The Town of Orangeville has organized a Canada Day full of fun family activities at the Alder St Arena from noon to 5pm. There will be a free family swim sponsored by the Rotary Club of Orangeville, face painting and a dog show. In the evening the town’s activities shift to Island Lake with ax throwing, local food and music, capped off by fireworks. The opening ceremonies are at 5:30pm and activities run until fireworks dusk.
The Orangeville Legion is also celebrating Canada Day. It is an opportunity to remember those who served our country and remember those whose sacrifices allow us to live in a free and prosperous Canada. The event runs from noon to 7pm and includes an outdoor BBQ, face painting and children’s activities.
Fiddle Park in Shelburne will play host to Shelburne’s Canada Day Celebrations, organized by the Town of Shelburne, County of Dufferin and the Kinsmen Club. The event will run from 3pm to 11pm with live bands, face painting, food and fireworks. The Town of Grand Valley also has organized an exciting day of events planned from the Soap Box Derby at 8:00am to the fireworks at dusk. The Orton Community Association is hosting a Canada Day Fireworks and Chicken Dinner at the Orton Community Park. The event includes a photo booth, tug of war, and live music.
The Alton Mill is hosting a Canada Day Concert by presented by Headwaters Arts. Doors open at 6:30pm and there are performances from Ryan Masters, Falcon Jane and the Justin MacDonald Band. The Albion Hills Conservation Area and the Toronto and Region Conversation Authority will host another great event with lots of fun family activities. The event begins at 4pm and includes a magic show, a dog show, live music and ends with fireworks.
I have a full day of activities across the riding. I will have some Canada 150 lapel pins to give to children who can answer my Canadian trivia questions, so brush up on your knowledge of Canada before July 1st.
I want to thank all the volunteers for the many hours spent organizing the events across Dufferin-Caledon. Your efforts will ensure Canada’s 150th birthday party will be one to remember. No matter what your plans are, please remember to stay safe while enjoying the festivals. From my family to yours, Happy Canada Day and enjoy Canada’s sesquicentennial.