Back with a bang! Calgary will have Canada Day fireworks
CTV
It looks like Calgary will have Canada Day fireworks after all.
It looks like Calgary will have Canada Day fireworks after all.
After announcing plans to nix the annual display in favour of "an enhanced pyrotechnic show," the City of Calgary abruptly reversed its decision, now saying there will, in fact, be fireworks.
The city announced in a May 18 news release that instead of the typical large-scale Canada Day fireworks, it would instead pilot a new "visually stunning display of lights and sounds" at Fort Calgary.
Officials cited cultural sensitivities around fireworks displays in relation to Truth and Reconciliation, and noted that July 1 also marks the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Immigration Act.
The decision to cancel the fireworks wasn't made by city councillors, but by the City of Calgary's arts and culture department.
Many protested the change, including Ward 13 Coun. Dan McLean and Calgary Nose Hill MP Michelle Rempel Garner, who implored the city to reverse the decision.
An online petition was also created by Common Sense Calgary, which, as of May 25, had more than 12,000 signatures.
