Once again, the Qualicum Beach Legion, with the support of Quality Foods and the Town of Qualicum Beach, is hosting their annual New Year’s Day Levée. Everyone is welcome to come and join the celebration from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Jan. 1.
A Levée is a uniquely Canadian New Year’s Day tradition of receptions held by the Governor General of Canada, the Lieutenants Governor of the Provinces, the Canadian Forces, RCMP, some municipalities and Legion branches. The Levée marks the advent of another year and provides an opportunity for the public to visit.
The first recorded Levée in Canada was held on Jan. 1, 1646 in the Château St. Louis by Charles Huault de Montmagny, Governor of New France (later Québec) from 1636 to 1648. In addition to shaking hands and wishing a happy New Year to citizens presenting themselves at the Château, the governor informed guests of significant events in France, as well as the state of affairs within the colony. The Qualicum Beach Legion Levée will include refreshments, food and live music by Bruce Feltham and the Qualicum Beach Pipe Band. — Submitted