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Okotoks Canada Day a multicultural event

Celebration of culture on July 1 at Okotoks Recreation Centre
Canada Day Okotoks KC 10
Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson cuts into a Canada Day cake with Karlette Cybar, left, and Bianca Pariyar, during the celebration outside the Okotoks Recreation Centre. (Wheel File Photo)

Okotoks’ multiple cultures will be on display for all to enjoy at the Town’s Canada Day festivities next week.

International foods, dancers and musicians are on the list of activities planned for Okotoks’ Canada Day Celebration July 1 at the Okotoks Recreation Centre, celebrating Canadians with various backgrounds.

“It’s a great way for the community to come out and celebrate Canada Day,” said Janette Messer, Okotoks program and events manager. “After all, we’re all Canadians here and love our country and what a better opportunity do we have than July 1.”

A stage will be set up in the field west of the centre with a drumming circle at 11 a.m., Thundering Nation Dancers at 11:30 p.m., Chelsey Cherkas and band at 12:15 p.m., Bollywood dancing at 1 p.m., Irish dancers at 1:30 p.m. and a group of music students performing at 2:15 p.m. The entertainment will move inside the centre in the event of inclement weather.

Inside the centre, the Twon is opening its doors at specific times for free swim and family aquafit, and Natural High Fitness will offer a free trial at the gym.

The more official festivities take place at 2 p.m. with a speech by Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and cake cutting.

“We’re really happy to present the Canada Day celebration every year,” said Messer. She said the Town gets funding from the federal government each year, which helps the Town grow the event and include so many activities.

One of the event’s biggest hits is the multi-cultural food sampling, which community events specialist Zack Adams said is hosted by Foothills Community Immigration Services.

He said the food is available on a first-come, first-served basis as there are limited quantities, and tables and chairs will be set up.

“Come with your family, grab a blanket if you want to or just stop by for five minutes,” he said. “Come at your own pace.”

Finishing off the day’s festivities will be the fireworks display at dusk from Riverside Park. The cost of the fireworks is split between the Town and Okotoks Dawgs.




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