Canada Day in Port Coquitlam will be bigger and better than ever, Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West says.
"As a council, we sat down and talked about our priorities for this term, and one thing I've advocated for is having fun and bringing the community together," West says.
"That's one of the city's roles is to build that community spirit by having opportunities for neighbours to come together and for people to celebrate and have a really good time."
In this realm, the city is dedicating more resources to enhancing the city's marquee events, such as the recent 100th anniversary May Day festival, and adding more family-friendly events throughout the year.
"We had a record crowd of 25,000 people for May Day. It was an amazing day with so many activities. People were feeling so positive about our community, where we're at, and where we're going," West says.
"Celebrations like that build your sense of community and positivity that we want PoCo to be known for."
This year's Canada Day Festival at Castle Park has been expanded to provide a full day of family fun. Here's what visitors to Port Coquitlam's Canada Day celebrations can expect:
Fishing Derby & Pancake Breakfast at Lions Park
Canada Day in Port Coquitlam kicks off with the Lion's Club pancake breakfast and fishing derby at Lions Park from 8 to 11 a.m. The fishing derby is free for kids under 10 years of age. No registration is required.
Grand finale fireworks
Port Coquitlam is excited to share that they are still committed to providing a spectacular fireworks show to end the action-packed day. The fireworks display will take place at dusk, and attendees can look forward to a meticulously choreographed pyrotechnics showcase, providing a touch of magic to finish off the festivities.
Live entertainment
Live entertainment will run from noon to 10 p.m., featuring an exciting lineup of performers leading up to the headline act by critically-acclaimed, award-winning Canadian country music artist Chad Brownlee. His chart-topping songs, infused with pop, country, and rock influences, reflect his deep love for the outdoors and uniquely blend classic and modern country sounds.
Art Zone
Indulge your inner artist with interactive activities for everyone. Whether painting, craft making or face painting, this zone will have everything you need to get colourful and creative.
Games Area
Fun for the whole family, this area will comprise many familiar favourites, including Giant Jenga, mini golf, bubble hockey, Foosball and many more to delight players of all ages while encouraging a bit of friendly competition.
Local food and drink vendors
Eight food trucks, vendors, and four local Port Coquitlam breweries will be on site with delicious food and drink options. The entire park has been licensed for the event, so attendees can enjoy a local brew while enjoying the live entertainment.
Free shuttle service
One of the most popular amenities from the May Day Festival returns for Canada Day. Ditch the car and embrace convenience with hassle-free transportation to the event courtesy of the free roundtrip shuttle service. Shuttles will operate every 30 minutes from 12 to 11 p.m., transporting visitors to Castle Park from Port Coquitlam's north and south sides.
To learn more about what’s in store for this year’s Canada Day celebrations, visit portcoquitlam.ca/canadaday.
