Canada Day at Centennial Park

Pamela Morey | May 30, 2018

I am willing to bet a lot of you think that all local Canada Day Celebrations are organized, funded and run by the Township of South Frontenac. Well, I just wanted to clear the air regarding who does what, at least in Harrowsmith.

The Canada Day Celebration at Centennial Park in Harrowsmith is totally organized, run and partially funded though the efforts of a volunteer community organization known as the Harrowsmith and District Social and Athletic Club. This little club, along with countless community volunteers, make this free event a huge success every year. This event would not be possible without the many donations collected from local businesses, service clubs and individuals within our community. We thank all who donate for their continued support each year. Along with these donations, the club also applies for grants from Heritage Canada and the Township of South Frontenac to support the many free activities that are available throughout the day.

Just so that you have an idea of what costs are involved here are a few of the more hefty bills; Fireworks cost $7000.00 (the grants from the township and Heritage Canada cover part of that), inflatables $3000.00, entertainment $2000.00, other forms of entertainment such as face painters, balloon artist, magician etc. $2000.00 plus event supplies and portable toilets $2500.00. In total around $16,500.00 to run this day and that’s just the monetary costs, not to mention the hundreds of volunteer hours that go into planning and running this awesome day.

The S&A club raises funds for this day as mentioned by reaching out to businesses, service clubs and individuals, as well as, collecting voluntary toll donations during the day. The club also holds several fundraisers throughout the year to help cover the costs. We would like to take this opportunity to reach out to businesses, service clubs and individuals to consider making a donation toward the Canada Day 2018 Celebration. The caliber of activities that happen throughout this day simply would not happen or cannot continue without help from the community. Any contribution would be greatly appreciated.

At this time we are also reaching out for volunteers to help out in the canteen as well as on the voluntary tolls. Just one hour of your time can make a huge difference.

The Harrowsmith and District Social and Athletic Club was established during the 1960’s. Our club mandate is to provide entertainment and facilities for our community, provide youth activities and to encourage good fellowship. Along with providing local activities for people of all ages,(a few of these include, Euchre nights, Canada Day celebrations, Santa Clause Parade and most recently the township wide Canada 150 Celebrations and Road Rally), we also take pride in the appearance of our area. Over the past few years we have spearheaded the erection a community sign on Road 38, placed flower pots in the village (prior to the Harrowsmith Beautification Committee) and are in the process of organizing a project to erect a community events sign and placing new benches at Centennial park.

In closing, the S&A Club is proud to provide this free event for our community. We love our community and strive to make it an inviting destination for both local residents and visitors to our area. Please have a safe and Happy Canada Day. Hope to see you at the park!

For more information on how you can help with Canada Day or become involved with the S&A Club please contact Pam at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or send a private message on our Facebook page.

Thank you for your time,

Pamela Morey, Harrowsmith Social and Athletic Club President