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East Shore set for Canada Day

The greatest fireworks display ever will be set off at 10:15 pm over Kootenay Lake.
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BY TOM LYMBERY

The greatest fireworks display ever will be set off at 10;15 pm over Kootenay Lake from the Crawford Bay Airstrip and beach. With no streetlights and reflections from the water this annual event sponsored by the Kootenay Lake Chamber of Commerce brings thousands of watchers every year. But this year, greater than ever funding from the Government of Canada and donations from businesses, the giant illuminations will be set off by the Riondel Fire Department.

This follows a full day’s celebrations on the East Shore. The 16-piece Many Bays Band directed by acclaimed bandleader Donnie Clark plays for the singing of O Canada at the flags in Crawford Bay Park at 11 am.

This is followed by Daytime Fireworks, an unusual event for the kids who gather round to each receive a Canadian flag when these descend from the sky. At the same time the Kootenay Lake Lions will be barbecuing burgers and fries (at old time prices), accompanied by ice cream, coffee and pop.

The Many Bays Band will play for a full two hours in the Fraser Pavilion – a real treat for music lovers. At the same time there will be games of all sorts going on as well as kids being active on the newly completed Natural Playground equipment. Even more Daytime Fireworks!

From 3 to 5 pm the action moves to the Riondel Campground where a Canada Day Talent Show takes place. Singing, dancing and more, with all welcome.

Next, at 5 pm the Boswell Hall Dinner takes place at the Boswell Hall. Tickets sell out fast but are available at the Boswell Post Office ($15) or door ($18). Kids 8 – 13 tickets are $8.

10:15 pm at the Crawford Bay Beach is set for the fireworks, rated by many as much more spectacular than those in other, larger communities. The show is visible from Highway 3A as well as many boats on the lake. Most of these boats will also be setting off fireworks to extend the display even further.

For those crossing the Kootenay Lake Ferry there are many campgrounds, cottages and hotel accommodations available so that you can stay over to see the best fireworks ever, and take in all the artisans’ offerings, as well as delicious East Shore food.