The 85th annual celebration of Pitt Meadows Day is under way.
The parade was held on Saturday at noon, with thousands lining the parade route across the city, while Lions Club members spent the morning flipping pancakes for the annual community breakfast.
Firefighters in the parade engaged in their much anticipated waterfight with kids from the community.
Captain Mark Davies, who has been in the fire department for 15 years, said the crews look forward to the event every year.
“We’re well known for the waterfights with kids,” said the president of the firefighters union Local 4810.
He said the interaction with the community is great, and creates lifelong memories – as some of the firefighters who grew up in the community can attest.
“They remember as kids shooting water at the firefighters,” he said.
“We pride ourselves on being a big part of Pitt Meadows Day,” Davies added. “It’s part of our culture here.”
The festivities will continue tonight at the Pitt Meadows Athletic Park (11431 Bonson Rd.), with lots still to happening.
There will be live music and entertainment on the stage, and a family friendly beverage garden. The Dirt Road Rebels (5 to 5:45 p.m.) The Contingency (6 to 6:45 p.m.), Sound Machine (7 to 8 p.m.) and Annika and the Earthlings (8:30 to 9:30 p.m.) are all waiting in the wings to perform.
There are food trucks offering poutine, gourmet grilled cheese, smoked meat and more.
The Kids Zone is happening from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., the artisan and exhibitor market goes from 1-8 p.m..
There is free family ice skating at Pitt Meadows Arena until 6:30 p.m.
The drone show is scheduled for 9:30 p.m., although organizers warn that it could be delayed or even cancelled due to inclement weather. A decision will be made closer to showtime.
The city is offering a chance to win a $100 gift card for Hopcott Farms, in exchange for feedback about the event.
The survey will be open until Sunday, June 14, and can be accessed online at haveyoursaypittmeadows.ca/pittmeadowsday.