Harkening back to 1915, Dominion Day celebrations at Huble Homestead July 1 are a throwback to a simpler time.
"Dominion Day is really when summer kicks off for us," said Krystal Leason, operations manager at Huble Homestead/Giscome Portage Heritage Society. "Dominion Day is truly traditional and it's one of our more popular events. Families tell us it's an alternative to celebrations at the park mostly because it's quieter, less crowded, and a little more relaxed. There's lots of great things going on in Prince George on Canada Day and Dominion Day at Huble Homestead is just a nice way to celebrate Canada's birthday the old fashioned way."
There will be traditional heritage demonstrations like ice cream and butter making, and there's a rumour that there just might be a bread making demonstration so bread and butter can go together, said Leason.
There are old-fashioned contests and pioneer games on site as well.
"Games were a staple during all community celebrations in Prince George in 1915 and before," said Leason. "The games were always one of the highlights of all of these events so the schedule of events - and then later the winners' names - would be printed in the newspaper."
Huble Homestead staff organize games, races and relays for all ages, including adults, and there are prizes for the winners.
"There's the three-legged race, sack races, wheel barrow races and depending on how hard the staff wants you to work, we could do egg and spoon races, too," laughed Leason.
Three times during the day, birthday cake will be served to guests in honour of Canada's 148 birthday.
There are eating contests for children and adults. But don't think hot dogs, wings or pie.
"Kids usually do watermelon and adults will probably do corn on the cob," said Leason.
Last year the adults competed in pie-eating contests.
"It's always a real blast to watch," said Leason. "And I think the funny part was the winner of the pie-eating contest got a pie to take home. So if we do corn this year, you probably won't just win a piece of corn. I'm sure we'll have something a little cooler than that."
Throughout the day there will be guided tours, special Canada Day crafts for the children to make, they can learn a bit about Canada's history while doing a Passport to the Past activity, there's live entertainment, the general store is open all day and features old-fashioned candy, gifts and souvenirs and all hats are 10 percent off.
During all special events and weekends, there's a pancake breakfast from 10 a.m. to noon, then there's a barbecue concession featuring hamburgers and hot dogs, there's ice cream sundaes, floats, ice cream sandwiches, pie and cold drinks available all day long.
The Huble Homestead is located 40 km north of Prince George, 6 km off Highway 97 on Mitchell Road. Don't forget the sunscreen and insect repellant. Leashed dogs are welcome on site.
Entrance is by suggested donation of $10 per family.
For more information visit www.hublehomstead.ca.
