It was a perfect day to celebrate Canada’s birthday on July 1, 2024 in Cobourg.
In downtown Cobourg at 11 a.m. it was a sea of red and white as thousands of people lined the parade route from Ontario Street to D’Arcy Street.
It was special year as Michael Miller celebrated the 35th anniversary of riding his families 1883 original penny-farthing in the parade. Even when Cobourg didn’t have a parade due to COVID restrictions, Miller took his penny-farthing and proceeded along the route.
“I really enjoy it. The crowd really gets excited about seeing the bike,” said Miller just prior to the starting of the parade.
Over the years, Miller said the parade hasn’t really changed, but it always draws a lot of people with smiling faces to celebrate Canada’s birthday.
With the Concert Band of Cobourg leading the parade, the weather couldn’t have been better with smiling faces from the participants and people dressed in red and white along the route.
Speaking along the route, MPP David Piccini said it means everything to be Canadian.
“I’m so proud to be Canadian – it’s the best Country in the world,” he said just prior to the Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums starting a number.
At the bandshell the Concert Band of Cobourg kicked off the festivities with the playing of O’Canada.
There were greetings by MP Philip Lawrence, MP David Piccini and Cobourg Mayor Lucas Cleveland before the playing of Happy Birthday then cookies were handed out to celebrate Canada’s birthday along with the 100th anniversary of the Cobourg lighthouse.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
