By Haylee Dianne
Residents in both Valleyview and Fox Creek came together on Canada Day to mark the national holiday with full schedules of community events, bringing families, volunteers and local organizations together in celebration.
In Valleyview, festivities were held at the Polar Palace Arena after organizers moved activities indoors. The day began with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Elks, followed by a RCMP meet-and-greet and a photo booth provided by Mary Colleen Photography. Residents then gathered for an official flag-raising ceremony, where Mayor Burke and representatives from the local Legion spoke to the crowd.
The Valleyview Legion is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and will be hosting a community barbecue at Legion Park on July 25.
Throughout the afternoon, families took part in a range of activities including bouncy houses, face painting by Chameleon Art, a visit from the Foothills Creamery ice cream truck, karaoke, a watermelon-eating contest and a cribbage tournament. Local vendors and volunteers helped keep the event running smoothly as residents enjoyed the holiday together indoors.
Planned fireworks were cancelled due to unsafe weather conditions caused by humidity, which made launching them unsafe. Due to volunteer availability, the display could not be rescheduled on short notice. Plans are now being directed toward a fireworks display during Fall Fest later in the year.
In Fox Creek, Canada Day celebrations were held at the Fox Creek Greenview Multiplex, where residents enjoyed a full day of activities beginning with a pancake breakfast at the Community Hall. The morning parade was followed by opening ceremonies and a variety of family-friendly entertainment.
Activities throughout the day included bouncy castles, balloon artists, glitter tattoos, a dunk tank and vendor tables set up along the walking track. Food and refreshments were available on site, including A&W apple turnovers, bottled water, ice cream treats and concessions offered throughout the venue.
The Canada Day celebrations in both communities reflected strong local participation, with residents coming together to enjoy a wide range of events supported by volunteers, businesses and community groups.