With Canada Day on the horizon, the Vernon-Okanagan Inspired Community Events (VOICE) Society is setting their plans for the events on July 1.
In a report to council at the upcoming Monday, May 12 meeting, VOICE Society organizer Mayla Janzen will be requesting support from the city for Canada Day festivities.
In the report, Janzen states that due to climate change risk, fireworks will be unsafe for the "foreseeable future."
Last year's main event was set to feature a drone show instead of fireworks, but it was cancelled after individuals on e-scooters damaged an antenna, making the drones unusable.
"We had so many people thank us for the work we did in the community, and a lot of people told us how much fun they had at the event despite the rain," Janzen said last year. "I think, all and all, we are onto something good here and we have the support of the community."
The 2025 event will be free, with a focus on a smaller budget and shorter timeline, prioritizing community-based features.
A community art wall from the Arts Council of the North Okanagan, an animatronic dinosaur from the Okanagan Science Centre, a story walk from the Outreach Literacy Show and other local organizations are to be featured at the event.
The theme this year is 'What does Canada mean to you?'
VOICE is requesting the city to waive the park rental fees, add port-a-potties, onsite traffic control and issue a temporary permit for entertainment.
Local music, a bouncy castle, the Polson Artisan Night Market, Fruit Fest and a skate competition have all been confirmed.
The request to council will be heard on Monday.
