FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following message was issued today by Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames in recognition of Canada’s Parks Day, July 16:

I invite all New Brunswickers to participate in activities this weekend that celebrate the many beauties of our parks and historic sites.

Each of our provincial parks offers unique experiences to our visitors. More and more people are choosing to get outside and to be active in nature. I encourage everyone to participate in Canada’s Parks Day in one of our parks and natural areas.

They continue to see increased use as there were close to 850,000 visitors in 2015. They are an economic driver and provide a broad range of ecological services such as clean air and water; critical habitats; and protection against flooding and storm surges.

A variety of events are being held across the province:

July 15

De la République

Campfire evening. Call 506-735-2525 for more information.

New River Beach

Ghost walk from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Meet at the Barnaby Head trail parking lot. Call 506-755-4046 for more information.

July 16

Mactaquac

People Power Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the York Sunbury day use area. There will be sailing, nature activities including critter dipping and frog walks and a barbecue provided by the Friends of Mactaquac Park. Call 506-363-4747 for more information.

New River Beach

Parks Day with the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society in New Brunswick. Barnaby Head nature hike at 10 a.m. In the afternoon, Seashore Explore will take place on the beach from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. More information is available by calling 506-452-9902 or by visiting the society’s website.

Mount Carleton

Professional caller Greg Dion will be hosting information sessions throughout the day. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 506-235-0793 for more information.

De la République

Parks Day from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Activities and crafts for kids of all ages. There will be a giant waterslide from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. In case of rain, activities will be held in the recreation centre. Call 506-735-2751 for more information.

Parlee Beach

Ultimate frisbee tournament all weekend on the beach. Call 506-533-3363 for more information.

Murray Beach

Seashore Explore activity. Call 506-538-2628 for more information.

More information on provincial parks is available online.