The rainy and overcast weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. 

The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) 

There were plenty of colourful floats, music, and even a special guest - Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. 

The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) 

Throngs of people lined the parade route, some from the early morning hours had already put out lawn chairs and towels to secure their spot in anticipation of one of the most beloved community events of the year.

Young and old all gleefully greeted the parade floats as they made their way through downtown Airdrie. Some residents were also decked out in festive red and white, celebrating the nation's 157th birthday.

The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) 

Canada Day celebrations began hours earlier at City Hall, where the Kin Club of Airdrie hosted a free Canada Day breakfast. The breakfast also featured a 50/50 raffle, and donations were welcomed as the is a fundraiser for community non-profits.

The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) 

But the festivities have only begun in the city. Airdrie's inaugural Multicultural festival is being held at Nose Creek Park today -  Airdrie CultureFest will be held from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., hosted by the Airdrie CultureFest Committee.

The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) The overcast, damp weather didn't stop tens of thousands of Airdrie residents from lining the streets for the annual Canada Day Parade, hosted by Airdrie Parades. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz) 

St. Lucia-born soca artist, producer, and songwriter, Motto, will be the headliner performance on the main stage starting at 6 p.m.

The Airdrie Pro Rodeo will finish off today at 10 p.m. at the Airdrie Rodeo Grounds.

The day will finish off with fireworks from 10:45 p.m. to 11:05 p.m. at the Chinook Winds Regional Park. The City hosts the fireworks, a 20-minute brilliant and dazzling artistic light performance to enjoy.

Parking is limited. Available parking lots near the site are:

  • Rocky View Schools
  • W.H. Croxford High School 
  • Chinook Winds Regional Park

Vantage point locations are:

  • Windsong School
  • Coopers Crossing School
  • Living Springs Church
  • Daybreak Church

"The fireworks show is visible from multiple locations. Grab blankets, lawn chairs and refreshments to watch the show."

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