Fireworks, food and fire dancing.
All the ingredients of a Prince George-style birthday party for the nation will be in the mix this July 1 at Fort George Park.
The Multicultural Heritage Society will kick off their Canada Day celebration this year at noon and will feature the entertainment and activities that have been staples over its 40-year history.
Girl Guides will be on hand to lead children's activities, Northern Health and the B.C. Ambulance Service will have vehicles to tour and this year a group of medieval enthusiasts will also be added to the mix.
"They're going to do a demonstration of fighting from the good old days," said Marlies Greulich, executive director of the Multicultural Heritage Society.
On the mainstage, the nominees for the 2013 Citizen of the Year will be announced and Canada Day favourite Thai fire spinner Chong will be among those crossing the Rotary Bandshell boards.
The multicultural food fare will return with 12 concessions from Chinese, Greek, Aboriginal, Persian, Afrikaans and East Indian cooks as well as North American treats such as hot dogs, kettle corn and mini doughnuts.
"We've lost Jamaica, Columbia and Peru [concessions] for lack of volunteers," said Greulich, who said younger people from immigrant families aren't keeping up with cultural traditions to be able to take over from their parents.
A tradition that will be upheld this year is a fireworks display. Sponsored by Canfor, the $10,000 show is scheduled to light up the sky from Connaught Hill at 11 p.m. The park will be closed to the general public during that time.
"[The fireworks] will be visible from anywhere so there's no need assemble in big groups," said Greulich.
Organizers ask that attendees leave their dogs and alcoholic beverages at home, but feel free to bring their own picnic lunches. There is no charge to be a part of the fun.
This year, the city and BC Transit will again facilitate shuttle bus service to Fort George Park.
Between 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. buses will run from Hart exchange at West Austin Road, North Nechako Road at the Caledonia Mobile Home Park and the Walmart exchange in College Heights to a temporary stop near the park on Gorse Street. Rides will be $1 each way. For full schedule information, check the Prince George section of the www.transitbc.com.
