As you read these words, summer will officially be underway on the Saanich Peninsula. That can only mean one thing: the Peninsula Celebrations Society (PCS) summer event season is about to begin. We’ve got parades, fairs, and concerts on the way, so clear those schedules and get ready to celebrate with us all summer long.
Everything kicks off on July 1 with our annual Canada Day Parade. Downtown Sidney closes to traffic as Beacon Avenue comes alive with floats, bands, community groups and plenty of red-and-white spirit. Starting at 11:30 a.m., the parade promises fun for all ages. Our theme this year is “Love, Honour, Respect,” and fittingly, 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of The Royal Canadian Legion. We’ll be honouring our very own Branch 37, one of the first Legion branches chartered in 1926. Be sure to watch for the 676 Kittyhawk Squadron Cadets carrying the Centennial Banner at the front of the parade and give them a well-deserved cheer.
Immediately following the parade, the celebration continues at the Canada Day Family Fun Fair in Iroquois Park (2295 Ocean Avenue). From 12:30 to 4 p.m., enjoy live music, entertainers, food vendors, games, inflatables and plenty of family-friendly activities. New this year is our “Kickin’ It Canada: World Cup Celebration,” inspired by the excitement and community spirit surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We’re also introducing a free bike valet service, operating from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ride to the festivities, leave your bike in safe hands, and enjoy the day worry-free.
As if that wasn’t enough, Canada Day leads directly into our Summer Sounds concert series. Beginning July 5 and running every Sunday through August 23, Summer Sounds brings outstanding live music to the bandshell in Beacon Park from 2 to 4 p.m. The series opens with Barracuda, a tribute to Heart, and the excitement continues all summer with tributes to Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles and many more. We’re also delighted to welcome local favourites The Haven (August 9), who will be bringing their signature blend of great music and high-energy entertainment to the stage. Bring your friends, lawn chairs, sunscreen and best dance moves, then settle in for an afternoon of great music in one of the Peninsula’s most beautiful settings.
All PCS events are smoke and vape free.
For full details on the PCS Canada Day events and the complete Summer Sounds band lineup, visit: www.peninsulacelebrations.org.
Want to get involved? We’re always looking for volunteers. Ask us about it at info@peninsulacelebrations.ca
See you out there!
