Multicultural Canada Day

So much more than just a national holiday, Canada Day in Peterborough’s is celebrated with a tradition that you do not want to miss. Each year, on July 1^st, thousands of residents and tourists converge at Del Crary Park to join in  Peterborough’s Multicultural Canada Day.

For the full Peterborough Canada Day Experience:

Start your day on George Street and watch the Canada Day Parade in the morning.

At the end of the parade, make your way to Del Crary Park for lunch.  You will find many cultural clubs, groups and vendors selling traditional dishes from around the world.  Then, stay in the park for a rich programme of cultural performances and end the day with the spectacular fireworks display.

A Special Day in Peterborough

Since its inception, the New Canadians Centre and the Multicultural Association of Peterborough have relied on the hard work and dedication of volunteers, and the collaboration with the City of Peterborough to plan and organize this event which provides an affordable, fun-filled day for the whole family.  Community and professional performers entertain the audience with a culturally diverse stage show featuring dancing, singing, and music from various cultures. Numerous food tents offer participants the chance to taste the delicious cuisines of different countries.

Most people stay for the evening portion of the celebration. A fireworks display lights up the sky, providing a perfect finale to a day of fun and community learning, and the celebration of another year of diversity in Canada.

Environmental Responsibility

In keeping with Peterborough’s commitment to protecting the environment, the New Canadians Centre supplies food vendors with reusable and/or biodegradable plates and cutlery. Volunteers distribute clean and reusable plates and cutlery and collect them after use. This way, Canada Day in Peterborough becomes an appreciation of the beauties of our people and our land.

Community Learning

In 2010, an estimated 10,000 people participated in Peterborough’s celebration of Canada Day. The event brings together many members of the Peterborough community, and aims to leave volunteers and participants with an increased sense of civic pride and appreciation for multiculturalism. It is a wonderful opportunity for the community to gain an increased awareness of the contributions being made by new Canadians to Peterborough, and the size and diversity of the local newcomer community.

You have many opportunities to participate in the event:

Here you can find more information on volunteering by joining the Canada Day Parade Committee. The committee meets monthly throughout most of the year to organize parade entries, community events and volunteer opportunities.

Contact the New Canadians Centre if you are interested in being a performer at the multicultural events at Del Crary Park, or if you need information on being a food or craft vendor.