City of Powell River’s Canada Day celebrations for 2020 have been cancelled. The announcement was made on April 21 by parks, recreation and culture director Ray Boogaards.
“To ensure the safety of all citizens from the COVID-19 virus and maintain physical distancing, the city will be following the advice provided by the provincial health officer and cancelling the annual Canada Day celebration this year,” stated Boogaards in a media release. “This is very unfortunate as every year people from this region look forward to Canada Day at Willingdon Beach. We look forward to the continuation of the Canada Day celebrations on July 1, 2021.”
Provincial health officer Bonnie Henry stated on April 18 that large events and gatherings, such as Canada Day, would have to be cancelled.
“We will not be having those big events this summer,” stated Henry.
Other major summer events and festivals in the Powell River area previously cancelled include Pacific Region International Summer Music Association (PRISMA) Festival, BC Bike Race, Blackberry Festival, Arts Alive in the Park and International Choral Kathaumixw.
To maintain physical distancing and prevent the transmission of the virus, Henry encouraged people to celebrate Canada Day virtually as an alternative to getting together.
