After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions, hundreds came out to Chalmers Park on Friday to celebrate Canada Day.
The festivities, produced with funding from the Government of Canada, got underway at 5:30 p.m., with entertainment by Mike Norden the Magician, a bhangra performance and lesson by Shan-E-Punjab Arts Club, and a demonstration of traditional Chinese dance by Jessica Yue.
During the opening ceremonies, Nathan “Kaanaax Kuwoox” Wilson of the Tsawwassen First Nation sang the Coast Salish anthem and local youth Maddi Morettin sang “O Canada.” Also on the dais were TFN Elder Qw’estanya Ruth Adams, Mayor George Harvie, MP Carla Qualtrough, DPD Chief Neil Dubord and parks commissioner Rod Binder.
Headlining the festivities was North Delta’s own Reckless: The Ultimate Tribute to Bryan Adams, featuring Delta residents Sherm Friesen (vocals and guitar), Burke Ehmig (guitar), Tom Zillich (bass) and John Stoltz (drums).
The band was joined onstage by Burnsview Secondary student Miranda Olson to perform Adams’ 1998 hit “When You’re Gone” (originally a duet with Spice Girl Melanie C), and later by Burnsview teacher Leslie Stark for a rendition of the 1985 hit “It’s Only Love” (originally a duet with Tina Turner).
Capping off the night was a spectacular fireworks display.
The event also featured children’s activities including bouncy castles, crafts, carnival games, face painting, recreational sports and balloon animals, as well as interactive booths and various food vendors.
SEE ALSO: PHOTOS: Hundreds line the streets for return of North Delta Family Day
editor@northdeltareporter.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter