Fun, food and fireworks marked Sault Ste. Marie’s celebration of Canada’s 156 birthday, Saturday.
In keeping with tradition, the riverfront was the centre of activities as Saultites flocked to the Roberta Bondar Pavilion, the hub of the day’s festivities.
To kick proceedings into gear, the gathering at the Pavilion heard from speakers which included
Sault Mayer Matthew Shoemaker, Sault MP Terry Sheehan, Sault MPP Ross Romano, and Brenda Powley of the Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council.
Romano’s three sons, Jarrett, Jackson and Jayden told the crowd, “We’re all very happy to be here today, to wish you all a Happy Canada Day!”
A quartet of local theatre performers followed up by leading the audience in singing the
national anthem.
“The best nation in the world is Canada absolutely, 100 per cent, and you know why that is? It’s because of all of you, each and every one of you, make this the best nation in the world, a fired-up Sault MP Terry Sheehan told the crowd. “Enjoy your day!”
And the fun was on, with face-painting, balloon animals, bean-bag tosses and more for kids. There was entertainment with local musical talents, including Jeffrey Wright, Matthew James, the Northern Jazz Ensemble and capped by Mustang Heart, while Toronto’s Scott Pressword with the Bumbling Bert Comedy Magic Show was a hit with youngsters.
Add a great variety of food and refreshment options, fireworks at dusk and in summary it was a splendid summer celebration.
“Today is a day to certainly celebrate our country, our heritage and the privilege that we all have to be Canadian,” said Sault MPP Ross Romano, “and the absolute honour that it is to be able to celebrate our country and enjoy all that that means.”
Bumbling Burt entertainer Scott Presswood shares the stage for a bit of magic and comedy with seven-year-old Amelia Wardlaw of the Sault Saturday at the Roberta Bondar Pavillion.
Rollin’ into Canada Day celebrations Saturday were Paul DuBois and his pup pal, Chloe.
A quartet of local theatre performers helped kick off Canada Day celebrations by leading the Roberta Bondar Pavilion crowd with a rendition of ‘O Canada!’
From left to right are Steven Gagnon-Ruscio, Chris Moore, Kerri Findlay and Ariella D’Agostino.
The Scarpino family awaits the start of Bumbling Bert’s Comedy Magic Show, just one the Canada Day entertainers performing at Roberta Bondar Pavilion Saturday. At far left is Anna Scarpino and at far right, Luisa Scarpino. In between are twins Makayla and Mackenzie.
“It’s good to be with family and friends, and be proud to be a Canadian,” says Luisa.
Donna Lafleche and Bill Brunton enjoy Canada Day cupcakes at the Roberta Bondar Pavilion.
“I love what the (organizers) do. It’s nice to see parents out with their kids and having fun with them,” says Brunton. “I like the music,” says Lafleche, “and the people are so friendly.”
Six-year-old Kaylee Anderson gives it her best shot during the Beanbag Toss Saturday, part of Canada Day festivities along the Sault waterfront. Looking on is Kaylee’s dad, Kurt.
Enjoying a Canada Day afternoon at Roberta Bondar Pavilion – and looking forward to the Saturday evening’s fireworks – are Lexi Renaud, 9, and brother Trace, 11, of Wawa.
Alice Labbe, above, on why she loves Canada Day festivities in the Sault: “Lots of people, lotta activities and the food is great!”
Having a whole lot of Canada Day fun at Roberta Bondar Pavilion on Canada Day are, front row, left to right: Mya Maitland, 6, Emma Maitland, 3, and one-year-old Nixon Maitland.
Back row: Nicole and Mirella Palmerio.
Sault MPP Ross Romano with his wife Heather Mendes and their sons, from left: Jayden, Jarrett and Jackson.
Sault MP Terry Sheehan fires up the crowd.
