Thousands of red-and-white-clad residents filled Canatara Park and lined the downtown Sarnia riverfront and parade route in celebration of Canada's 149th birthday Friday, July 1.
Festivities began with the parade, a very popular yearly event, that began moving from Lakeshore Rd. and Colborne Rd. to Canatara at 11:30am.
Opening ceremonies, multicultural entertainment and ethnic food were enjoyed in the park before the party switched to the downtown waterfront for musical entertainment and the annual fireworks display, which again did not disappoint.
A couple of short-lived showers did not deter party-goers with partly sunny conditions and brisk, cool northwesterly winds prevailing much of the day.
Parade award winners have been announced.
The best overall theme entry was the Canadian Cowgirls.
The Great Lakes Dance Academy won the best youth organization award.
The best service/volunteer organization entry was the Rotary Club of Sarnia-Lambton.
The best non-commercial entry award went to the Bluewater Cloggers.
The Studio was most entertaining float and the Sarnia Pride Alliance most colourful.
A special mention creative group award was given to the Twin Bridge Volleyball Club. -With files from Rick Burrows
