Canada Day fireworks cancelled, city offers microgrants for local celebrations

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The City of Fort St. John is unable to hold its annual fireworks display on Canada Day and is instead offering microgrants for local organizations to host their own celebrations.

An open fire ban was put in place by the province on May 10th, which includes fireworks.

The city is offering a one-time grant of up to $1,000 for local businesses and non-profit organizations to open their doors and offer family-friendly activities for residents to enjoy during the day on July 1st. The grants will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

In addition to micro-grants, the City of Fort St. John will still be hosting their Canada Day Celebrations, including a community parade, pancake breakfast at the Fire Hall, and a variety of activities in Centennial Park and Festival Plaza.

To be eligible for the grant, applicants must follow these requirements:

• Must operate a business or non-profit in the City of Fort St. John;

• Hold a valid business license or non-profit number and insurance;
• Have their own staff available to run activities;
• Be in charge of registrations and bookings (if the activity needs pre-registration);
• Activities must be:
  o Family Friendly,
  o Free of charge for participants,
  o Offered between 4-8 p.m. on July 1st;
• Provide a detailed description of the proposed activity you’d like to offer at your business;
• The activity must be approved by the city prior to advertising;
• After the event, submit a report including event photos and budget expenses.

To apply for the micro-grants, click here before the June 7th deadline.

Staff will review applications and confirm by email that the activity has been approved. The city will also help to promote the activity leading up to July 1st.