B.C. Provincial Parks are celebrating their 100th birthday this year and 10 Mile Lake Provincial Park is in on the celebration.
With the help of sponsors, the British Columbia Arts Council and Arts BC, the Quesnel and District Community Arts Council (QDCAC) partnered with the Native Friendship Centre to organize a day of fun, Aug. 14, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m at 10 Mile Lake Provincial Park.
The QDCAC’s main purpose in the community is to increase the opportunities for residents of Quesnel to experience cultural and heritage activities.
To that end, the QDCAC enlisted several performers of aboriginal descent.
Organizers for the Arts in BC Parks decided to showcase performers of aboriginal descent because the event is held on traditional aboriginal grounds.
In December, QDCAC applied for a grant from the Ministry of the Environment and decided to put the funds towards this event.
This is the first time Quesnel has had an event of this type and organizers hope to see more in the future.
“I think it’s a great event,” member of the QDCAC Bernice Heinzelman said.
“I think it’s great that it’s outside.”
Activities begin with Chief Squinas delivering the official welcome to the traditional aboriginal grounds.
Next, Geneva Irwin delivers the opening prayer.
The birthday celebration also includes performances by favourite local artists including the Red Bluff Hoop Dancers, the Quesnel Metis Youth Dancers and Quesnel Old Time Fiddler’s Branch #3.
Also performing are singers Vernie John Clement, Breanna Morning Star and Bernard Chantyman.
Jerry the Moose, the BC Parks mascot is providing entertainment for the kids.
Other scheduled activities include Round Dance and a Medicine Walk lead by aboriginal elders Ellie Peters, Geneva Irwin and Donna Steves.
Bannock and refreshments will be provided for attendees.