This year, the theme for Ladysmith Days is Ladysmith Has It All.
There’s no better way to showcase that than the Kinsmen Parade, which takes place Aug. 11 along First Avenue and is sure to feature a variety of fun, colourful entries.
Ladysmith Kinsmen Club member Duck Paterson says response for this year’s parade has been very low so far, and he is hoping more individuals, families, groups, businesses, organizations and clubs will come up with entries.
“Normally, the summer parade isn’t as big as the winter one, and we realize a lot of people are on holidays and a lot of groups don’t meet in the summer,” said Paterson.
However, the Ladysmith Days parade normally has 35 to 40 entries, and there are only 18 so far this year.
Besides knowing when to show up (8:30 a.m. on Aug. 11), Paterson says the only thing people who want to enter the parade need to know is how to have fun.
“It really is all about Ladysmith and about enjoying the sun and enjoying the weekend,” he said.
The Ladysmith Has It All theme for the weekend is very general, but Paterson says parade participants don’t even have to follow the theme.
“As long as you are in the parade and having fun and enjoying the crowd, fill your boots and be what you want to be,” he said. “Everybody’s welcome, and we want them to have fun.”
Prizes will be given out in 11 different categories. At the end of the parade, participants can gather at Aggie Hall for refreshments served by Ladysmith Family and Friends (LAFF) and provided through a donation by the Kinsmen.
If you’re interested in entering the parade, you can find the entry form online, at the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce office at 411B First Ave. or by contacting Duck Paterson at 250-245-2263.
It’s just one more way to show your community spirit and enjoy a weekend of fun and celebration.
— The Chronicle