Thousands are expected to gather at Riverside Park in Kamloops today (July 1) for Canada Day festivities, which will feature a full day of events, cultural performances, and the return of fireworks, according to event organizer Ray Dhaliwal.
The celebration kicks off at 7 a.m. with a Lions Club pancake breakfast and continues throughout the day with programming designed to highlight community engagement and multiculturalism.
A parade through the park is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m., with participants encouraged to carry flags from Canada or their countries of origin.
“We have flags from all around the world that will be displayed and anyone is welcome to come join us,” Dhaliwal told Castanet.
“If you bring a flag of your country or a Canadian flag, please come join us,” Dhaliwal added.
Immediately following the parade, opening ceremonies will take place at the bandshell stage around 10:40 a.m. Local dignitaries are expected to speak, and a cake donated by Costco will be served at 11 a.m.
From 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees can explore the international food court, which will offer a variety of dishes representing global cultures.
The beer garden will operate from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering refreshments for adult guests.
Entertainment on the bandshell stage will also run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. as part of the Folkfest cultural showcase, featuring music and dance performances from local cultural groups.
Nearby, community booths and a Kids’ Fun Zone will provide additional activities for families.
Art in the Park, a popular visual arts exhibition, will also be held behind the bandshell from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring local artists and artisans.
Later in the evening, Music in the Park will take over the bandshell stage starting at 5:30 p.m. The live concert is scheduled to lead into the fireworks display, which is set to begin at 10 p.m.
The fireworks mark a return to tradition after last year’s drone show received mixed reactions from the community.
“We did hear a lot of feedback and it wasn’t so positive,” Dhaliwal said.
Canada Day at Riverside Park highlights how activity-driven programming can benefit campground and RV park owners by attracting guests, encouraging longer stays, and boosting engagement. Offering diverse, family-friendly events—from parades to fireworks—creates memorable experiences that support repeat visits and increase on-site spending.