Those lazy, hazy days of summer are finally here and it is appropriate that Canada Day marks a sun-kissed celebration to unite all residents.
Events Edmonton is throwing a birthday party at Louise McKinney Riverfront Park on Thursday, July 1 with kids’ crafts, midway rides and games, wagon rides, a dragon boat festival display and live entertainment.
Every year Events Edmonton partners with a community group. Last year they partnered with Shumka and this year the Polish community is in the spotlight.
Collaborating with the Chopin 2010 Celebration Committee, Events Edmonton is honouring the 200th birthday of Fryderyk Chopin, Poland’s most notable composer/pianist.
Classical pianist Simon Marc de Reitas will perform a set of Chopin works at 5 p.m. Following his 45-minute concert is a special dance presentation at 6 p.m. by the Polonez Polish Folk Arts Ensemble and Citie Ballet.
Starting at 2 p.m. Piast and Kujawiak interactive set up a fun session teaching crowds how to dance, says communications co-ordinator Kristen Reid.
Later in the afternoon Larado, a four-piece band formed from ex-members of The Nomads takes visitors back to the golden era of rock ‘n roll.
And at 8 p.m. Tony Michael and the Foggy Minded Mountain Boys perform a variety of old-fashioned acoustic music. Following is Edmonton alternative rockers JFR Project. “Everything they do is influenced by Chopin and I’m really excited to hear them,” says Reid.
This is the first year Canada Day will host a midway and Wild Rose Shows is setting up 10 to 12 kiddie rides and a variety of games. “It’s going to be the big attraction this year, especially with that amazing view.”
And what would a party be without carnival food, such as Fat Franks, churros, Ukrainian food, popcorn and mini-donuts.
“There’s lots of green space and families are invited to bring lawn chairs.”
Louise McKinney Park is located at 9529 Grierson Hill.
