No fireworks in Vernon for Canada Day, but here’s what is happening

VERNON – With many people disappointed there won’t be any fireworks accompanying Canada Day in Vernon, a local organizer says there’s still lots to enjoy, and take pride in, this year.

Residents learned in May there wouldn’t be a fireworks display on Canada Day — a shock to many who assumed the longstanding tradition would, as always, happen at the DND grounds.

The news has many people angry and dissapointed, and others leaving town to Kelowna or the Shuswap where fireworks are going ahead.

But Ken Barker, who helps organize a separate lineup of celebratory events held in Polson Park, says there’s still lots to look forward to right here in Vernon on Wednesday, July 1.

All events are free, and entertainment includes live music, Ukranian dancers, and a Show ’n’ Shine car show.

The events, which have always been run separately from the fireworks display, usually attract between 5,000 and 6,000 people, and Barker doesn’t anticipate any loss of visitors due to the fireworks cancellation.

“We always have good attendance and are expecting more because of the Show ’n’ Shine,” he says.

He’s encouraging everyone to come and check the event out, and to show their Canadian pride.

“It’s nice to see the families together at a free event so everyone can celebrate Canada,” Barker says. “It’s great to see all the red and white flags and the community coming together.”

A schedule of events can be found below.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infonews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.