Overview:
Elbows Up, Canada! is an energetic, inclusive 1.5-hour gathering combining inspiring non-political community speakers, uplifting music, and meaningful community connection. The event maintains a positive, non-partisan, and family-friendly atmosphere, aimed at celebrating unity, resilience, and Canadian values. The only political figure invited to speak is the mayor of the community hosting the event.
Key Programming Elements:
House Band:
- The house band opens the event with an energizing set of Canadian covers to welcome attendees and remains present on stage throughout the event to maintain energy and provide musical transitions.
- Closes the event with an iconic, uplifting Canadian song to leave participants feeling inspired and connected.
Opening Segment:
1. Music Set (10 minutes)
- High-energy songs performed by the house band to energize the crowd
2. Welcome & Opening Remarks (5-10 minutes)
- MC introduces the event and sets the positive, inclusive tone.
- Conduct a respectful and meaningful Land Acknowledgment.
- Brief welcome from organizers to articulate the event's values: respect, optimism, action, empowerment, and peaceful strength.
Speaker Rounds & Musical Performances:
- Alternate between short rounds of speakers and musical performances to sustain audience engagement and emotional momentum.
- First Round of Speakers (15 minutes)
- Feature non-political community leaders, cultural figures, and advocates, along with the mayor of the host community.
- Musical Performance (5 minutes)
- Feature notable Canadian musicians or community-led singing activities to deepen the communal atmosphere.
- Crowd Activation & Community Connection (10 minutes)
- Facilitate interactive activities:
- "Neighbour to Neighbour" prompts:
What brought you here today?
What do you love about Canada?
How will you take action this week to build a stronger Canada?
- Second Round of Speakers (15 minutes)
- Continue with inspirational, non-political speeches that emphasize resilience, unity, and proactive community action.
- Second Musical Performance (5 minutes)
- Encourage collective singing or notable solo performances reflecting Canadian identity.
Closing Segment:
- Final Round of Speakers (10 minutes)
- Select speakers to reinforce the event's key messages and inspire actionable takeaways.
- Special Musical Tribute (5 minutes)
- Perform a meaningful, Canadian-themed musical tribute celebrating diversity and unity.
- Closing Music Set (10 minutes)
- House band leads a closing song that is uplifting and celebratory.
- All performers and speakers join onstage to sing the National Anthem, fostering a sense of shared identity and pride.
- Optional: group photo to capture the community moment.
- Closing Remarks & Thanks (5 minutes)
- MC expresses gratitude, reinforces key messages, and invites continued community involvement.
Post-Event Activities (Optional):
- Organize informal community gatherings nearby (pub or cafe).
- Arrange a casual activity such as street hockey to sustain the event's spirit of community engagement.
Important Considerations:
- Ensure the event remains welcoming and respectful to all participants.
- Prioritize clear and consistent communication of the event's positive, unifying objectives.
- Engage with participants actively throughout the event to build a strong sense of community and connection.