The unifying theme for Port Coquitlam’s Canada Day is the recognition and celebration of Canadian cultural diversity (‘multiculturalism’).  The objective is to provide a family event that is inclusive of the entire Port Coquitlam community.

Consistent with the Parks and Recreation Department’s current operating philosophy, coordination of the Canada Day celebration follows a community development approach.  The citizen members of the Canada Day Task Force are the primary organizers of this community-driven special event and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department facilitates coordination of civic resources.  The Canada Day Task Force is bound to operate within the limitations of City bylaws and standing policies.

To deliver an event that supports the theme and objective of developing a family-oriented, multicultural celebration, the following is a list of roles and expectations of the organizations and individuals involved (the City of Port Coquitlam and the Canada Day Task Force).

Role of the Canada Day Task Force

• To act as the primary coordinators of the City of Port Coquitlam’s Canada Day event in the following areas (illustrative but not exclusive to):
• Entertainment / Community Showcase
• Food / Concessions
• Logistics
• Multicultural Area
• Organization
• Promotions
• Secretarial duties
• Security
• Special Activities
• Volunteer Coordination
• To develop a subcommittee, as necessary, to assist with their roles in the planning process and the day of the event.
• To coordinate and support the efforts of the organizations / individuals and subcommittee(s) involved in offering the activities that contribute to the Canada Day event.
• To work in cooperation with the City of Port Coquitlam.
• To report to the Community and Civics Event Program Coordinator with any questions or concerns.

Role of the City of Port Coquitlam

• Act as a liaison (the main communication source) between the Canada Day Task Force and the City of Port Coquitlam Staff.
• To act as a major sponsor/partner through in-kind and direct dollar contribution to be used towards the programming of the Canada Day Festival.
• To provide assistance / support with the programming and planning of the event in the following areas:
• Program development (illustrative but not exclusive to):
• Community Showcase
• Fundraising
• Musical Entertainment
• Opening Ceremonies
• Special Activities
• Logistics / security / organization (illustrative but not exclusive to):
• First aid services
• Rental of tents, stage, toilets, tables and chairs
• Shuttle Bus Services
• Promotions (illustrative but not exclusive to):
• Advertisements in local newspapers
• Signage/banners
• Community Calendar
• City Website

Guided by a mutual understanding of the above roles and expectations, the collaborative efforts of the City of Port Coquitlam and the Canada Day Task Force should be successful in maintaining Port Coquitlam’s tradition of coordinating a successful Canada Day Celebration that exemplifies our community and national pride for our cultural diversity.