Canadian Days in Little Canada is a special time of year. Since 1977, Little Canada and Thunder Bay, Ontario, have dedicated a weekend to celebrating the international friendship between the two communities. The 2018 celebration kicks off on August 3rd and ends on the 5th, and we encourage you to explore the activities available during the event and relish in the city’s Canadian pride. Keep scrolling to learn more about the celebration and get a sneak peek of this year’s festivities.
Canadian Days in Little Canada
The History
So how did Canadian Days begin? In 1976, some community members of Little Canada banded together to host the first Canadian Days festival as a U.S. Bicentennial celebration. Those who attended had such a wonderful time celebrating the history of Little Canada with the company of new and old friends, they decided to host an annual festival.
Sharon Clasen, president of the Little Canada PTSA, suggested that the festival should honor the world’s longest undefended border between Canada and the United States. The festival committee then asked Thunder Bay to join the summer celebration, and it’s been a success ever since. The Canadian Days Committee has even produced a video documentary to honor the unique bond between the two communities thanks to a grant from CTV North Suburban Access Corporation (source).
The Festivities
- Grand Parade: There’s nothing quite like a parade. Join the crowd and watch as themed floats drive down Eli Road. If you’re feeling extra creative, rally your friends together and enter a float for a chance to win a cash prize.
- Tournaments: No matter what your activity level, Canadian Days offers a way for you to let your competitive side shine. You can sign up to participate in the volleyball, bean-bag, or kittenball tournaments. Or if you would rather watch from the sidelines, cheer on your friends and family who take part in the games.
- 5k Run/Walk: Kick off the celebration and get those legs moving by participating in the Canadian Days 5k Run/Walk. Help yourself to a pancake breakfast once you reach the finish line.
- MacGillivray Pipe Band: Every year since the festival’s origin, the MacGillivray Pipe Band has faithfully played to get everyone in the spirit for Canadian Days – and this year will be no different!
- Medallion Hunt: Since 2010, the Medallion Hunt has been a crowd favorite. Participants search far and wide for the infamous hidden medallion. In years past, participants found the medallion at Roseville Area Middle School Hockey Rink near the pond, at Gervais Mill Park along the walking path, and at the intersection of Cherry Hill Lane and Woodland Drive on the cul-de-sac near the fire hydrant in a black sock. This isn’t an easy treasure hunt, but if you’re lucky enough to find the medallion, you will win priceless bragging rights.
Canadian Days in Little Canada is a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and culture. You can bring a friend or even come alone. You’ll be sure to meet plenty of new people and make memories! If you want a meaningful way to fill your time, consider joining the Canadian Days Committee. It’s been four decades since the first festival, and the international friendship between the cities of Little Canada, Minnesota, and Thunder Bay, Ontario, continues to thrive.
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