As in 2020, Virden’s 2021Canada Day celebrations were limited by COVID-19 restrictions. However, this gave birth to some new events such as a drive-in and geocaching.
The day officially began with the raising of the large flag, which once adorned the Peace Tower in Ottawa, high above Victoria Park.
In the afternoon, the Town of Virden offered free admission to the swimming pool, which proved to be a popular place to beat the heat.
With the music and activities in the park not possible this year, Valleyview Consumers Co-op and the Virden Community Chamber of Commerce put together a new attraction, which was a throwback to a bygone era in Virden. Dozens of vehicles assembled at the former arena site on Lyons Street for the showing of two drive-in movies – Jumanji: The Next Level and Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. People were able to tune in the soundtrack on their FM radios, just like days gone by. Co-op staff and Virden Oil Capitals players did brisk business in popcorn and drinks, with proceeds donated to the Oil Capitals Foundation. No gate admission was charged.
The sport of geocaching was another new element. Using the GPS coordinates and helpful hints posted on the committee's Facebook page, Virdenites set off in search of the 12 “caches", strategically hidden in the town and surrounding area. Those who took home a “treasure" and left their contact information in the logbook at each location had their names entered in a draw for five mystery prize packages comprised of items purchased from and donated by local businesses.
Prize winners were Brad Hunter, Jovie Talbot, Corrine Verran, Ashley Higginbotham and Jasmyne Andries.
July 1 celebration wrapped up at dusk with the customary fireworks by members of Wallace District Fire Department Station #1.
