Penticton to hold virtual Canada Day event

The City of Penticton is taking this year’s Canada Day celebrations online.

COVID-19 pandemic restrictions are forcing the move because residents may not be able to gather in person in large groups.

“Canada Day is an excellent opportunity to celebrate our country, our community, and each other,” Penticton Mayor, John Vassilaki said in a media release. “While we may not be able to gather together in person, we look forward to celebrating together virtually.”

The City’s virtual Canada Day program will feature local children’s entertainers, popular musicians, a video submissions from across the region.

Headliners include music duo Aiden and Mandy, musician Beamer Wigley, magician Leif David, and dance and fitness instructor Ashley Dias in a show anticipated to last 90 minutes.

“Residents can expect a high-energy, entertaining show featuring some of your favourite local performers and musicians,” sport and event project manager Carly Lewis says in the release.

The City is asking residents to contribute by submitting a one-minute self-recorded video of you and your family singing the national anthem. The videos will be incorporated into a Community Song Project as part of the virtual Canada Day show.

Residents are being asked to record the video in landscape format and submit it to this page on the City's website.

The event will be broadcast at noon July 1 on the City's Facebook page here.

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