Celebrate Parks Day, July 18
Premier Darrell Dexter declared July 18, Canada's Parks Day in Nova Scotia. Visitors to Provincial Parks can enjoy a fun-filled day for the 20th annual Parks Day.
"We are blessed in Nova Scotia to have breathtaking parks where visitors can explore our natural environment," said Premier Dexter. "This Parks Day celebration is an affordable way for families and friends to spend a day together and participate in some exciting activities."
More than 15 provincial parks throughout Nova Scotia are taking part in the festivities. Activities include paddling, barbeques, hiking, fireworks and the Moonlight Walk at Shubenacadie Wildlife Park. Two new events have also been added: Sky Watch at Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park and Wilderness Survival at Porters Lake Provincial Park.
"Over the past 20 years, Nova Scotians and visitors look forward to this annual event," said Natural Resources Minister John MacDonell. "We look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come."
Dollar Lake Provincial Park hosted the first Parks Day in 1990 and some of the original organizations continue to return each year to take part in the celebrations. This year, events at Dollar Lake will include a wildlife presentation and display, an introduction to paddling, and map reading.
Whycocomagh Provincial Park will celebrate its 50th anniversary on the same day. Partnering with the Whycocomagh Summer Festival, the park will offer an exciting day of activities including games, nature interpretation and honours for park staff.
Parks Day events are included in the Parks are for People program, which takes place throughout the summer and fall. The program is a co-operative effort by government agencies, recreational clubs, community organizations and individuals. It is co-ordinated by the Department of Natural Resources.
All Parks Day events are free of charge, with the exception of the Moonlight Walk at Shubenacadie Wildlife Park.
For information on events, call 902-424-4321 or visit www.novascotiaparks.ca .