Canada Day is going virtual.
There won't be a parade, but the Rotary Club of Yellowknife and the city are providing Canada Day events and activities online, according to a Wednesday news release.
Every year, Yellowknife residents gather at Somba K'e Civic Plaza to mark Canada's birthday but this year people are asked to get involved in virtual celebrations.
"There are many ways to get involved in this year’s Canada Day celebrations, such as watching the events online, creating a Canada Day Shout-Out video, submitting your rendition of ‘Oh Canada’, or participating as an artist by hosting classes or recording performances that will be aired on Canada Day," states the news release. "The City will be making a special announcement on Monday, June 15, 2020, with more details for this year’s virtual Canada Day celebrations."
Mayor Rebecca Alty provided a statement noting the importance of staying physically apart but being together online during the pandemic.
“Canada Day is a celebration that brings our community together,” she said. “This year is no different and, although we will be physically distant, Yellowknifers will still be able to celebrate together, virtually.”
Yanik D'aigle with the Rotary Club told NNSL Media that there will be no parade this year.
The Rotary Club of Yellowknife's involvement will be tied to their "Celebrate Canada Day @ Home" which is asking residents to "decorate themselves and their homes in red and white in recognition of our great country," states the news release.
Individuals are asked to dress up with their families and at their homes at Canada or take photos of themselves with decorations and post to the Rotary Club event page beginning June 18.
Everyone that participates and posts a picture to the page will be entered into a random draw on July 2 to win prizes like barbecues and gift cards.
"Canada Day is a great opportunity to bring our community together and this year is no different!" states the release. "Residents are encouraged to get involved and stay up to date, as we look forward to more announcements coming soon!"