Celebrate Canada 150 by watching Musical Ride

You are encouraged to dress up in red and white to take in what is perhaps one of the most iconic Canadian travelling shows as the RCMP Musical Ride trots into town for performances at Topaz Park on Saturday and Royal Roads University on Sunday.

The equestrian team, consisting of 32 RCMP riders and their steeds, is in Victoria as part of a crosscountry tour to celebrate Canada 150. The tour includes stops in all 10 provinces and one territory.

The Musical Ride, a tradition perhaps as old as Canada, consists of horse and rider, in their red serge ceremonial uniforms, performing choreographed complex mounted calvary-style drills to the accompaniment of music.

Come early and get an opportunity to chat with members of the team, take selfies and pet the horses (ask first).

Musical Ride merchandise will be on sale.

The event is hosted by the Victoria Military Music Festival Society. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

The show runs 1:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday at Topaz Park, 790 Topaz Ave. (at Glasgow Street) and 1:30 to 3 p.m. Sunday on the lower lawns of Hatley Castle, Royal Roads University, 2005 Sooke Rd., Colwood. Local performers will open the show, with the Musical Ride starting at 2:30 p.m. on both days.

Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. There is limited parking at both venues. Organizers suggest carpooling, using transit, cycling or walking to the site. For information, go to victoriamilitarymusic.ca.