Due to the weather forecast for July 1st this year predicted a full day of rain, WCSA decided, after careful consideration, to move the Canada Day celebration from July 1st to the preceding day, Sunday, June 30th. This change aimed to avoid potential rainfall, encourage greater participation, and ensure the safety of volunteers and attendees.
On the event day, MP Terry Duguid, MLAs Jennifer Chen and David Pankratz, and Deputy Mayor City Councillor Janice Lukes all attended to celebrate Canada Day and Winnipeg's 150th anniversary. They enjoyed the spectacular performances at the Canada Day Drum Festival, which featured drum music throughout the event.
WCSA President Jiang Yan, along with MP Terry Duguid, MLAs Jennifer Chen and David Pankratz, and Deputy Mayor City Councillor Janice Lukes, distributed Canada Day celebration cakes to the audience.
For three consecutive years, WCSA has hosted large outdoor celebrations at Bridgwater Lakes Park, each year introducing new elements. Performers and volunteers devote their spare time to rehearsals, presenting a range of captivating performances including Dragon Dance, Drumming, Line Dancing, Chinese Dance, Tai Chi, and Tai Chi Softball. This year, they also introduced new acts such as youth lion dance, children's martial arts, and Chinese ocarina music, enhancing the visual and auditory experience while showcasing more aspects of Chinese culture.
Despite the last-minute rescheduling, the Canada Day celebration organized by WCSA was successfully held, overcoming weather challenges. The event received widespread praise from all levels of government, various sectors of society, and the general public. CBC News conducted an exclusive interview with WCSA President Ms. Jiang Yan and provided extensive coverage of the Canada Day activities. Federal MP Terry Duguid, MLAs Jennifer Chen and David Pankratz, and Deputy Mayor Janice Lukes also shared highlights of the event on their social media platforms, congratulating the success and expressing gratitude to WCSA and the volunteers for their contributions to the community.
Although the rescheduling led to some changes, over 220 volunteers were actively involved, thanks to WCSA’s strong organizational and coordination efforts. Sixteen volunteer groups, including reception, performance, booth, transportation, logistics, sanitation, face painting, and balloon twisting team, each played their part efficiently, providing thoughtful services to the attendees. From the children's favorite inflatable castles to personalized face painting, maple leaf-themed stickers, and creative balloon twisting, long lines formed under the scorching sun. Hundreds of smiling faces and thousands of balloons brightened the day for people of all backgrounds and ethnicities.
Many volunteers juggled multiple roles; some quickly changed from performance costumes into volunteer uniforms, moving swiftly between the stage and various activity tents. Families of all ages eagerly participated in both performances and services. Despite their busy schedules, their happiness was evident, reflecting the organizers' sentiment: "Having fun is the main goal for everyone!".
The collective effort of hundreds of people and the joyful gathering of thousands to celebrate Canada Day showcased a harmonious community symphony led by the Chinese community. WCSA looks forward to continuing its efforts to strengthen the influence of the Chinese community in the southern area of Winnipeg.
