Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
DELAWARE — Under a brilliant blue sky on July 1, the community of Delaware came alive with music, colour, and heartfelt pride as the Del-Ko-Brydge Canada Day celebrations took their turn in this year’s hosting rotation. Residents from Delaware, Komoka, and Mount Brydges gathered early at the Delaware Community Centre for a full day of festivities that combined tradition, gratitude, and community joy.
The day began with the aroma of syrup and pancakes wafting through the grounds, courtesy of a community-sponsored breakfast. Inside the centre, local organizations set up engaging displays, while outside, families enjoyed classic fair fun like face painting and bouncy castles.
One of the most anticipated moments of the morning was the Canada Day Parade, which made its way down Gideon Drive with vibrant enthusiasm. Children waved flags, antique cars rumbled by, and fire trucks rolled through as spectators lined the streets. Local leaders, including Mayor Aina DeViet of Middlesex Centre, Mayor Colin Grantham of Strathroy-Caradoc, MPP Steve Pinsonneault, and MP Lianne Rood, all participated and later addressed the crowd during the official opening ceremonies.
Master of Ceremonies Don Collyer set the tone by welcoming the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Guard from the Delaware Branch 598 and introducing Liam Doelle, who sang O Canada with sincerity and spirit. “O Canada, we stand on guard for thee,” echoed across the crowd, many of whom stood with hands over their hearts.
Mayor Aina DeViet acknowledged the deeper significance of the day, reminding the audience: “We recognize the history that began on this land with our Indigenous peoples, and we acknowledge the importance of reconciliation… Canadians are resilient. They are generous and they are kind.”
Strathroy-Caradoc Mayor Colin Grantham spoke to the regional unity the celebration represents: “I just want to talk about a special relationship, and that’s the relationship between Mount Brydges, Delaware and Komoka. It’s long standing. It’s appreciated.”
And MPP Steve Pinsonneault captured the spirit of the event with a lighthearted close: “Kudos to all the volunteers… On behalf of the province, thanks for the invite out and Happy Canada Day! Never 51!”
The afternoon carried on with live entertainment, games, petting zoos, archery, and the ever-popular water ball challenge hosted by the local fire department. Cornhole tournaments and a friendly round of bingo rounded out the schedule before everyone gathered again at dusk.
At 10 p.m., the sky over Delaware erupted in a dazzling fireworks display, bringing the day to a stunning finale. The sense of pride, connection, and joy was unmistakable. This year, Delaware didn’t just host Canada Day—it brought it to life, the local way.
