What’s red and white and out in abundance on Canada Day? Yes, the country’s flag is everywhere on July 1, flying high at government institutions, on homes, hats, lapels – you name it. But as Canada celebrates the 152nd anniversary of Confederation, thoughts turn to red and white in the form of food, specifically that which will be on offer at events around St. Albert from morning ’til night this holiday Monday. And while some fare (free or for purchase) isn’t exactly red and/or white, a lot of it is. Watermelon anyone?
Food often symbolizes hospitality and community, so it’s no surprise that the St. Albert Legion Branch #271, which has been part of the fabric of St. Albert for 62 years, is hosting a pancake and sausage breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Just $5 gets you a hearty start to celebrations of the day, with pancakes, sausage, juice or coffee (pancakes are kind of white, right?) and outdoor seating if the weather is fine.
“Canada Day is a day to celebrate our great nation by spending it with family and friends. Along with breakfast, the Branch will provide a Colour Party for Canada Day celebrations at Riel Park and host a beer garden in the Legion back parking lot starting at 10,” says St. Albert Legion Branch #271 President Doug Delorme. “Events like these gives the community the opportunity to come together at the Legion, make new friends and meet neighbours they might not have met before.”
Throughout the daylong celebrations at Riel Park, there will be no shortage of goodies, from treats like red/white cupcakes – here’s hoping? – and watermelon to food trucks to help fill your tank. Look for DaVinci Gelato, Deli Coffee, Ukrainian House, KGW Kettle Corn, Dawg Gone It, Preserve Food Truck, Cale Mexico, Panago Pizza and Punky Potato and busy lines of hungry holiday-makers at the trucks within Riel Park. Stretch your imagination to see the red and white amidst all these offerings, from the red tomatoes and white cheese on salads, tacos and burgers, to ketchup on a hot dog bun. Even creamy white gelato flavours, perogies and kettle corn fit the bill.
There’s also old fashioned vanilla ice cream at the Little White School House, plus a chance to make and decorate your own Canadiana-themed cookies. Heck, even put a cherry on a sundae or banana split in your travels and voila! It’s a Canada Day-esque treat.
And for a traditional touch of red and white, there’s no beating the Canada Day Strawberry Tea at St. Albert Botanic Park. Volunteers will serve cake, strawberries and ice cream under the tent. Admission is by donation, and visitors can enjoy the added ambience of a walk amidst the flower gardens and special Canada Day musical performances.
Happy eating!
