Prince Rupert will once again join communities across Canada in a powerful, coast-to-coast celebration as Canada Day Drumming returns on Tuesday, July
Now in its ninth year, this national event invites Canadians to come together in rhythm and spirit鈥攄rumming simultaneously at 11:30 a.m. PST to honour the country鈥檚 cultural diversity, shared values, and community strength.
This year, the local celebration will take place at the lower parking lot of Rupert Square Shopping Mall (500 2nd Avenue West). In the event of rain, the gathering will move indoors to the mall鈥檚 lower-level lobby. The event is free and open to all ages, and free rattle drums and miniature Canada flags will be distributed to all participants.
The celebration will feature a traditional Lion Dance and multicultural performances, offering a joyful reflection of the many cultures that call Prince Rupert home.
With its rich Indigenous heritage and long-standing cultural diversity, the event aims to create a space where all members of the community can gather, share in the moment, and celebrate together.
鈥淧rince Rupert is home to many vibrant cultures with deep roots in this region,鈥� said Amy Wong, local organizer of Canada Day Drumming since 2018.
鈥淭his event is about coming together in a way that鈥檚 joyful and welcoming鈥攚here everyone can take part in their own way, whether drumming, watching, or simply showing up to be part of the community.鈥�
Launched in 2017, Canada Day Drumming has grown into one of the country鈥檚 largest simultaneous celebrations, with cities from Vancouver to St. John鈥檚, Nfld. participating. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live on YouTube, encouraging Canadians to take part from wherever they are鈥攗sing drums, pots, pans, or simply their hands.
鈥淐anada Day Drumming is about more than celebration, it鈥檚 about connection,鈥� said Richard Wong, founder and national chair of the event.
鈥淎t 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.鈥�
For Wong, this year鈥檚 event in Prince Rupert holds 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.
鈥淧rince Rupert is where my family鈥檚 Canadian story began,鈥� he said. 鈥淭o 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鈥攏ot just here in Prince Rupert, but in communities across Canada.鈥�
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.
Event details:
Canada Day Drumming 鈥� Prince Rupert
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Drumming begins at 11:30 a.m. PST (please arrive by 11:15 a.m.)
Lower parking lot, Rupert Square Shopping Mall, 500 2nd Ave West
Free and open to all ages
Lion Dance and multicultural performances, free rattle drums and Canada flags
Other B.C. events:
National Livestream:
