The bagpipers with their unique instruments easily caught the eye, accompanying the military veterans, members of the Royal Canadian Legion.

On this July 1st in Quebec, it seemed to be only in Montreal, in the Old Port, and in Quebec City, on the Plains of Abraham, that Canada Day was celebrated. But in two small bastions in the Eastern Townships, Hatley Village and Bury near Cookshire-Eaton, this date has been a must for many years, and many faithful to the Maple Leaf find great pleasure in these gatherings. To the point that, this year, attendance records in Bury have been largely beaten!
It is like the small Gallic village of the Asterix and Obelix saga, very popular in France. In 2023, it even seemed to be the event of the year. For the occasion, Bury residents had something to eat and plenty of activities.
The children were well served, from 7 a.m. for the early risers, with inflatable games and a small farm, always popular with its famous animals. Then, at 10 a.m., the public was invited to the highly anticipated “Strawberry Shortcake” activity, presented by the Bury Historical and Heritage Society, at the Armoury alongside local products and crafts for sale. An interesting exhibition on the historic military past of the small municipality was also offered on the second floor of the Victoria Multifunctional Centre. Downstairs, a sale of used books captured the interest of some at the Bury Library. Some exhibitors also offered their products, including Chantal Guertin with her Atelier des Pas Pareils, free for young people.
But the highlight of the celebrations, which won the hearts of the approximately 8,000 people who were present, was the great parade which followed a loop of a few kilometres along the streets of the village. Principale Street, particularly crowded with participants, was impressive. Last year, about 7,000 people invaded this artery. The record was broken this year by a significant margin, it seems. Opened by horses whose riders carried flags, the parade featured many other horses, antique automobiles that still amaze people, fire engines with blaring sirens, bagpipes accompanying Military Legion veterans, not to mention the various allegorical floats, that of Santa Claus always very appreciated, and several others.
The five members of the organizing committee of the Bury Athletic Association had worked hard to ensure that the organization functioned smoothly. “Fortunately, we can count on many volunteers, whom we want to thank very sincerely, because it would be impossible to organize this without them!” rejoiced the manager, Sabrina Patry.
“We also have several partners and sponsors, but let’s just mention the very collaborative Municipal Public Works and the volunteer Fire Department,” she concluded. Her four accomplices: Mélissa Chapman, Anik Dionne-Dubreuil, Daryl Mroz and Tony Hartwell.
It was a great day filled with success, in every respect, which the local population and the many visitors will remember for a long time. At least until next year, that’s for sure!