It's all a matter of scale.
The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury holds a huge Canada Day Celebration in town, thanks to the efforts of staff, a small army of volunteers, and the support of sponsors.
The event offers inflatables and activities for the kids, food and refreshments provided by the local Lions Club and legion, live entertainment and a fireworks extravaganza - and attracts thousands to the Bradford and District Memorial Community Centre and Centennial Park.
Meanwhile, the hamlet of Newton Robinson isn't looking for the big crowds when it celebrates Canada's birthday.
Unofficial Newtown Mayor Tyler Philp and First Lady Jacquie Philp hosted a celebration with kids’ activities, food, music and fireworks that attracted more than 100 guests of all ages.
That's just about the total population of the hamlet.
It’s all designed to build the community, as well as celebrate Canada’s birthday - a throwback to the community-mindedness and sharing that characterized the hamlet’s early years, even before Confederation. In fact, Newton Robinson had its start as Latimer’s Corners back in the 1820s, long before Canada became a nation.
Those were the days when neighbours knew neighbours, church meetings and suppers drew large crowds, and local residents helped each other with everything from barn raisings to the harvest.
Guests to the Newton Robinson Canada Day celebration enjoyed a barbecue and brought potluck contributions – scoured their homes for furniture, to provide seating and create a comfortable “lounge” area – and chipped in for the fireworks to light up the night sky.
It was small-scale, fun - a great way to create community connections and recognize Canada’s rural roots.
