This year’s Neighbour Day is unlike any other.
Tomorrow, the city will take part in the annual Neighbour Day celebrations for the seventh year in a row. This year will be unique from others due to distancing regulations because of the pandemic.
Neighbour Day takes place on the third Saturday in June every year. The city has prepared many activities that you can do virtually to participate.
“Neighbour Day is going to look and feel a little different this year, but the spirit behind it is stronger than ever,” said Mayor Nenshi, in a prepared statement.
“This is an opportunity to celebrate and embrace the community spirit that so many of us needed to get through the difficult days of the pandemic.”
The first Neighbour Day was celebrated in 2014 after the immense support and generosity Calgarians demonstrated to help each other and rebuild the community after the 2013 flood.
What you can do tomorrow
There’s lots you can do!
Hosting a virtual celebration via video conference: This is the safest way to connect with neighbours this year. The Mayor and members of council will be participating in these calls across the city.
Share a Neighbour Day pledge card: Take a photo of your card and share how you plan to celebrate by posting and using the hashtag #yycNeighbourDay on social media.
Join the scavenger hunt: You can print the card from the city’s website and see how many activities you and your neighbours can complete.
Decorate in red and white: With your family, you can decorate your windows, yard, doors and red and white using crafts, balloons, lights, etc. The city encourages these decoration to stay up for Canada Day. Sheets and crafts available online.
Support Local: Using the hashtag #SupportLocalYYC You can share how you will be supporting local businesses on you pledge card, whether that’s purchasing gifts or buying take-out. By printing your pledge card or sharing your Neighbour Day plans with participating Calgary businesses, you can unlock special Neighbour Day deals and discounts. You can visit Calgary.ca/covid-business for other ways to support business.
Hire a local artist to create art in your neighbourhood: You can apply to receive funding between $500 and $4,500 to find an idea for a community-run public art project. This will inspire Calgarians and support local artists that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit Calgary.ca/artistopportunities for more.
Make a new connection with your neighbour: Send a friendly greeting by printing a connection card, filling it out, then drop it in your neighbour’s mailbox to introduce yourself.
If you are celebrating in person, you must adhere to the provincial health orders and guidelines. The city encourages citizens to practice social distancing if participating in activities.
“Calgarians’ ethic of support and generosity has been proven time and again, through whatever tests we’ve faced,” said the Mayor.
“So however you mark the occasion this year, I hope you remember how much stronger we are together.”
