Canada Day celebrations, like so many other celebrations this year, will be moved to the virtual world with Blue Mountain Village, Collingwood, and The Blue Mountains combining efforts for a live stream showcase.
The showcase will be called Canada Day from Peak to Shore and will replace the usual events such as live music performances, family-friendly activities, and fireworks.
Patti Kendall, director of marketing and events for Blue Mountain Village Association is looking forward to the live stream and is pleased the three communities could come together for a crowdless Canada Day.
“It won’t be our typical Canada Day celebration or our typical Peak To Shore music fest,” said Kendall in a press release issued by the Village Association. “But we promise to entertain you in the safety of your homes with great acts performing from some of the most beautiful destinations in our region.”
According to the press release, the live stream showcase will also be a tribute to essential workers.
The show will be hosted by John Eaton and Melanie Case of the PeakFM, and live-streamed from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. via peaktoshore.ca on Wednesday, July 1.
The lineup of performers is still to be announced, but will include some fan favourites such as Pat Robitaille, The Leynes Brothers, Victoria Yeh, Amanda Journey, Mike McCarthy Band and Singing Soldiers.
The two municipalities plus the Village received support from BruceGreySimcoe tourism and the province of Ontario for the live stream event.
Dean Collver, acting executive director of corporate and customer service for the Town of Collingwood is also glad the town could still be part of July 1 celebrations.
“It’s important for us to come together as a community to celebrate Canada Day, support each other, and pay tribute to our frontline workers and everyday heroes,” said Collver in the press release. “This show will have elements of each and be fun for the whole family.”
The week leading up to the event, there will be announcements of contests on social media and during the live show, there will be opportunities to get involved and win prizes.