Queen won’t be named as Welland Rose Festival returns

The Welland Rose Festival is making its return after a two-year hiatus, and there will be some changes compared to how it has been held during the past six decades.

This year marks the festival’s 60th anniversary. It will take place over a few days and not multiple weeks in June.

The longtime tradition of naming a Rose Queen is no longer part of the program.

“It’s dated,” said chair Jeff Ward, who has been involved with the festival many times over the past 45 years.

“In this day and age, it’s not a good thing,” he said, adding he feels it’s “diminishing” for the young women involved, and that most pageants have gone by the wayside.

Instead, the festival will recognize an ambassador who is an expert in roses and will likely be found through consultation with local horticultural experts.

The Rosebud Queen and King baby contest is also no longer part of the schedule.

The theme of the parade this year is roses and poppies. Organizers are inviting businesses that are celebrating a significant anniversary to participate by way of float, free of entry charge.

Anyone from Welland celebrating their 100th birthday or their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary are welcome to participate in the parade as well.

The festival plans to to acknowledge and honour Niagara’s doctors, nurses and first responders who have worked in the ongoing pandemic.

“The hat should come off for all of them,” said Ward.

The celebration will kick off with a Rose Baseball Game hosted by the Welland Jackfish on Thursday, June 16.

At Merritt Park, a street dance is planned with The Other Syde opening for Jack de Keyzer Blues Band on Friday, June 17.

Live music will continue Saturday at the floating stage with children’s group Splash ‘N Boots at 11 a.m., followed by sets from British Invasion Band and Forever Seger. The night will conclude with fireworks.

The grande parade will take place Sunday, June 19, starting at Welland Main Arena on King Street. It will travel to East Main Street and end at Hellems Avenue. The Howling Horns will take the stage at Merritt Park Amphitheatre following the parade.

For more information, contact the Welland Rose Festival at 905-7327673 or info@wellandrosefestival.on.net.