After a difficult couple of years, members of the Optimists Club of Bright's Grove are excited to once again host Canada Day celebrations.
A Canada Day parade will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 25 (weather permitting).
"It was a long two years but we managed to gather everyone together and I think we're going to have a really good show this year," said John Vollmar, chairman of the club's Canada Day festivities.
Following the parade, there will be a barbeque and live entertainment in the afternoon. Vollmar said arrangements have also been made to bring in a carnival, as seen in past years.
Turn out for the event could be a coin toss. Vollmar said they could see fewer attendees than usual because of uneasiness following the past two years of the pandemic or there could be more attendees than usual as people may be eager to get back to public events.
"I'm hoping that we'll have a really good turnout and everyone can have a really great time," he said. "Anybody's welcome to come. You don't have to live in or near Bright's Grove, everybody in the City of Sarnia always has been and always will be [welcome], and we're glad to see anyone come out."
The parade route will start from Wildwood Park, move east on Hamilton Road to Waterworks Road, then east on Old Lakeshore Road to Kenwick Park. The parade route is expected to arrive at the park at around 12 p.m.
Vollmar said as always, anyone is able to participate in the parade. Children 12 and under are invited to decorate their bikes for the parade and those who do will receive a ticket for a free hot dog and pop.
Volunteers are also needed. Those willing to help are encouraged to contact the Optimists Club.
-With files from Colin Gowdy