Wilmot seeks volunteers for annual Canada Day celebration

By Amanda Nelson

Wilmot’s annual Canada Day event takes place July 1 and features a range of family-friendly activities.

The event will be organized this year by Township of Wilmot staff but also relies on community volunteers to bring it to life.

“Volunteers play a critical role in bringing the event to fruition; we truly could not do it without them,” said Lacey Smith, supervisor of recreation programs at the township. “They are the people power behind the event and are involved at every stage, from planning to implementation.”

The event includes an Indigenous sunrise ceremony, live music, games, inflatables, vendors, food and a fireworks display once the sun goes down.

Smith says working with the township to bring the Canada Day celebrations to life offers a sense of connection to the community and a way to connect with others in the area.

“Volunteering for Canada Day gives residents an opportunity to give back to their community,” said Smith. “It inspires a sense of purpose and pride, builds connections with family, friends and neighbours, and most importantly, it's fun.”

Vendors, community groups and organizations are also invited to promote their offerings at the event each year. Those with local crafts and goods can apply on the website to showcase their small businesses at the Canada Day celebrations.

There will also be seven food trucks this year, with four food and three dessert trucks based on space and layout.

Though the township is working to bring the event together, officials say they wouldn’t be able to do it without their local volunteer base.

“Our volunteers play a key role in making sure the event truly reflects what our community wants and needs,” said Smith. “We rely on their support to deliver this event each year, so continuing to build our volunteer base and maintain positive, respectful relationships is essential to its ongoing success.”

Volunteer roles include attendants for parking, the gate, the kids’ zone, youth zone, dunk tank and inflatables. Shifts range from four to six hours, beginning at 12:30 p.m. until the fireworks display in the evening.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome to connect with the township regarding Canada Day opportunities.

“We are offering some family volunteer opportunities this year with our gate attendants and in both the kids’ and youth zones,” Smith said.

Anyone interested in volunteering can apply at www.wilmot.ca under events in the recreation and culture section.