Let's check out Hospital Day on Haida Gwaii - an annual tradition since 1908 (although I could only find photos dating back to 1958)!
Photo Credit: www.hospitalday.ca
Hospital Day originated as a fundraising effort to build the first hospital in “Queen Charlotte City.” For many years thereafter, the annual event provided the only source of operating revenue for the hospital. 
Photo Credit (1980): www.hospitalday.ca
Hospital Day continues to raise funds to purchase equipment for various healthcare programs on Haida Gwaii.
Photo Credit (1986): www.hospitalday.ca
The tradition of Hospital Day draws islands residents together for a fun day consisting of various activities and socializing.
Photo Credit: www.hospitalday.ca
Each year the event commences with a lively parade reflecting the eclectic lifestyle of our islands' communities. Let's take a look at this year's parade ...it looks like your average parade....keep looking...
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Donna Hodgson
Photo Credit: Sheila Wigmore
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Take for example the Kazoo Band - it is unclear as to when it began, but every year, the Kazoo Band gathers once again at the parade grounds - I believe a few other instruments have been added over time...
Photo Credit (1975): www.hospitalday.ca
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Fran Fowler
The parade winds down the main street and ends its journey on the Queen Charlotte Community Club Ball Field.
Photo Credit: Fran Fowler
And now for MORE FUN!
Photo Credit: Fran Fowler
It's almost a post-parade ritual to start with lunch from either inside the hall (chili and pulled pork) or from the burger/hot dog kiosks on the 'street'. The lunches and dinner (supper) are made and served by a dedicated team of approximately 20 community volunteers!
Photo Credit: Fran Fowler
Photo Credit: Fran Fowler
All-day live entertainment at the oceanside stage!
Photo Credit: Tery Haymond
Photo Credit: Tery Haymond
Photo Credit: Tery Haymond
Many of the adults found themselves sprawled on the lawn or seated at the numerous picnic tables alongside the waterfront and facing the performers - could you ask for a lovlier way to spend the afternoon!
Photo Credit: Tery Haymond
Photo Credit: Tery Haymond
The younger crowd had other ideas...
such as horse back rides...
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
the 'Pony Bounce'...
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
Photo Credit: Megan Romas
and the always popular game kiosks!
Photo Credit: Donna Hodgson
This year, the sun shone brightly throughout the day (one might even say that it was a bit HOT). Ahhh, the advantage of having the ocean at the parade grounds...
Photo Credit: Fran Fowler
Consider including one of our island festivals into your travel plans - it's an opportunity to meet islanders in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. You'll experience island life at it's best.
Come Visit!
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