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Centre Wellington hosting virtual Canada Day celebration

The virtual party features local performers and entertainment and the town is hosting a Canada-themed house decorating contest
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Centre Wellington's virtual Canada Day poster. Supplied photo

CENTRE WELLINGTON – Centre Wellington is hosting a virtual Canada Day celebration in lieu of an in-person event. 

The virtual party will air the evening of July 1, starting at 7 p.m. and will feature entertainment for all ages including performances from local talent, a dance party, Canadian trivia and virtual cooking classes.

“This year the township is planning Canada Day fun for everyone to enjoy safely from their own backyard,” mayor Kelly Linton said in a press release. “I know my family will enjoy all of the activities planned.”

Local performers include celtic guitarist Tony McManus, fiddle music duo Scott and Carolyn Woods, The Fergus Pipe Band, magician Ryan Joyce, and bagpiper Peter Piper. 

Joyce, who has produced over 100 livestreams, said the biggest challenge when it comes to an event of this kind is engagement.

“People need fast-moving and stimulating or brought directly into the conversation—bonus points if you can do both,” Joyce said.  “As a magician there are some tactical changes, 'pick a card' becomes 'think of a card' for example.  As an entertainer, the style has changed because it's more of a conversation.  It boils down to connecting and communicating.”

Joyce said his entire industry has shifted online but the spark that a live performance bring doesn’t go away. He said he feels an event like this is important for communities.

“This pandemic has forced all of us to communicate virtually and I doubt there are many people who haven't participated in some type of virtual event,” Joyce said. “Especially now, these virtual events help us feel connected.”

Along with the virtual party, the town is holding the Canada My Home contest, a home or business decorating competition. The theme is to celebrate Canada and our nation’s heritage. The panel of judges will consider design, decorations including animated, unique and unusual items. 

Prizes for the Canada My Home contest have been donated by the Fergus Elora Rotary Club. Residents have until June 28 to enter and can do so here. Homes and businesses involved will become part of a self-guided drive by home tour on Canada Day. 

Visit www.connectcw.ca regularly for event updates and more information.