Altona was full of Canadian spirit and pride Wednesday as the community came together to celebrate the country's 150th anniversary. Due to the weather, all the activities were moved to the Millennium Exhibition Centre, but that did not stop Altona and area residents from joining in on the festivities.

Pavilions lined the common space of the centre, allowing visitors to learn about some of the original cultures that make up the town of Altona such as Paraguay and Ukraine. Other displays portrayed Canadian values, such as environmental issues, regional connections and Special Olympics.

Between free food and musical performances by W.C. Miller Collegiate band students, a tree planting and book launch took place.

Since the weather did not accommodate the day's initial schedule, an indoor ceremony substituted for the tree planting. Throughout the year, the Canada 150 committee plans to plant 150 trees across Altona in 2017, five of which will make their home in Centennial Park.

The book launch was the result of a writing contest with the theme “Canadian Heroes,” organized by Altona's Canada 150 Celebration Committee.

Earlier in the year, members of the public were encouraged to showcase their admiration for their Canadian hero, whether that be a grandfather or a celebrity, through writing and visual art. There were approximately 132 submissions overall, but only 60 made the final cut. At the launch, the books were handed out to the winners of each submission category.

Afterwards, a dance group called the Asham Stompers took the stage and wowed the audience with their quick feet and synchronized choreography.

To finish off the evening, the remaining crowd members were able to take a look at the variety of items that now fill the memory capsule, which will be officially buried at a later date.

Part of the capsule is filled with memorabilia from the year 2000. Now, 17 years later, aerial shots of the town of Altona, picture books and photos, a letter from the mayor, a Canada 150 banner signed by the public and contributions from local businesses and organizations occupy the leftover space.

In response to how the day of celebrations went, chair of the Altona Canada 150 Celebration Committee Al Friesen said it was noisy, crazy and wonderful; all something to be thankful for.