Because they are dependent on private funding to light the fuse, Canada Day fireworks displays have been a hit-and-miss event in Prince George over the past decade.

Thanks to Canfor, one of the city's largest employers, the fireworks will be back in 2013 to celebrate Canada's 146th birthday.

Canfor announced this week it is donating $10,000 to light up the night sky on Canada Day at Fort George Park, the culmination of a day-long celebration of our country's ethnic diversity organized by the city and the Multicultural Heritage Society.

"We are delighted to sponsor the Canada Day fireworks in Prince George as part of Canfor's 75th anniversary celebrations" said Canfor chief executive officer Don Kayne. "With four manufacturing facilities, our tree nursery and our forestry and administrative operations based here, Prince George is central to our company. We thank Mayor Green for inviting us to participate."

There were no Canada Day fireworks in the past two years because the city was unable to find local sponsorship.

“We are pleased that there will be a fireworks display this year as it has been greatly missed by everyone,” said Marlies Greulich, executive director of the Multicultural Heritage Society. “The festival is Canada’s birthday celebration and we have always equated the fireworks display as the birthday candles.”