Prince Rupert once again joined communities across Canada in a powerful, coast-to-coast celebration as Canada Day Drumming returned July 1.
Now in its ninth year, this national event invites Canadians to come together in rhythm and spirit, drumming simultaneously at 11:30 a.m. PST to honour the country’s cultural diversity, shared values, and community strength.
This year, the local celebration took place at the lower parking lot of Rupert Square Shopping Mall.
The celebration featured a traditional Lion Dance during which the three lions were joined by the dragon from the community musical Shrek, which was performed at the Lester Centre in April.
“Prince Rupert is home to many vibrant cultures with deep roots in this region,” said Amy Wong, the local organizer of Canada Day Drumming since 2018.
“This event is about coming together in a way that’s joyful and welcoming—where everyone can take part in their own way, whether drumming, watching, or simply showing up to be part of the community.”
Following the Lion Dance, the gathered crowd participated in six minutes of drumming simultaneously with communities across the country, which was live-streamed.
Then, dancers from the North Coast Indo-Canadian Arts Club and the Filipino-Canadian Association entertained the crowd.
Launched in 2017, Canada Day Drumming has grown into one of the country’s largest simultaneous celebrations, with cities from Vancouver to St. John’s, Nfld. participating.
“Canada Day Drumming is about more than celebration, it’s about connection,” said Richard Wong, founder and national chair of the event.
“At a time when unity and understanding are so important, we invite Canadians of all backgrounds, cultures, and generations to come together in rhythm, friendship, and pride.”
For Wong, this year’s event in Prince Rupert held special personal meaning. His grandfather opened the West End Restaurant in the city in 1918, a beloved local business that his family operated for decades.
“Prince Rupert is where my family’s Canadian story began,” he said. “To return here with a message of unity and inclusion feels especially meaningful. Our family served this community for generations, and this event carries forward that same spirit of belonging—not just here in Prince Rupert, but in communities across Canada.”
Canada Day Drumming is presented by the Legacy 150 Celebrations Society, a Vancouver-based non-profit that promotes multicultural harmony, peace, and civic pride through inclusive, community-based events.
