Image: Mike Vanden Bosch / Pattison Media / The manager of recreation services for the Fraser Valley Regional District says Canada Day festivities will be scaled back a bit in the District of Hope due to a funding cut from Heritage Canada.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Canada Day in Hope

Canada Day festivities in Hope to be scaled back a bit due to reduced federal funding; no fireworks planned

Jun 22, 2024 | 3:13 PM

HOPE — The manager of recreation services for the Fraser Valley Regional District says Canada Day festivities will be scaled back a bit in the District of Hope due to a much smaller funding allocation from Heritage Canada.

According to a memo from FVRD manager Mike Freimark, FVRD Recreation Services will be organizing Canada Day activities in Hope alongside the District of Hope, Hope Motorsports Group and the Lions Club. Freimark said Canada Day is a significant day for Hope residents and the surrounding areas. Hope & Area Recreation Services sets aside funding on an annual basis to pay for events and festivities.

However, FVRD has received only $7,500 from Heritage Canada this year, $20,000 less than the submitted funding request, Freimark said.

“Due to the reduction in funding, the event will be slightly scaled back with this going on in one location to ensure that the event is impactful,” Freimark said.

The Hope Motorsports Group will again organize the car show in the morning, while FVRD Recreation Services staff will concentrate on the evening events at the 6th Avenue ball fields.

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The evening festivities will begin at 6:30 pm at the 6th Avenue ball fields highlighted by Appaloosa performing a high-energy show starting at 7:30 p.m. Childen’s activities like balloon twisting, bouncy castles, a S’mores station and face painting will be available.

Fireworks will not be an option due to the current fire risk and the predicted dry summer, Freimark said. Instead, staff will explore different options for closing the event that are both safe and impactful.

“The FVRD Recreation Services team is committed to providing a memorable Canada Day 2024 for Hope and the surrounding areas despite the reduced funding,” Freimark said. “By focusing on one central location and adjusting plans to ensure safety and impact, staff believe they can still deliver a successful celebration.”

Hope residents and visitors alike are invited to join elected officials on July 1 for an evening of celebration and entertainment.