151st Dominion Day in Barkerville

Canada’s very first Dominion Day celebration was held in Barkerville as a fervent display of support for Canadian confederation three years before British Columbia joined in 1871.

Just past midnight on July 1, 1868, the Dominion of Canada’s first anniversary, Barkerville citizens launched their own version of a 21 gun salute. Cannons were in short supply, so black powder charges were detonated between stacked anvils, providing a loud and raucous start to Canada’s inaugural birthday party. A full slate of activities followed throughout the day and long into the evening, capped off with a fireworks display.

In 2019, we celebrate much the same way, with a tug of war, funny face contest, greasy pole climb, egg toss, races and lots more.
Scotiabank sponsors a giant cake, and the House Hotel hosts an evening of entertainment, dancing and refreshments!