OLYMPIA – Dec. 16, 2014 – The United States Canada Peace Anniversary Association invites the public to a unique holiday event at Peace Arch State Park in Blaine. The event celebrates peace between nations by commemorating the bicentennial of the Treaty of Ghent, signed on Dec. 24, 1814. The treaty ended the War of 1812 and established peace between the U.S., Canada and Great Britain.
The Peace Bicentennial Celebration, in cooperation with Washington State Parks, is an open house-style event from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, in the American Kitchen at Peace Arch State Park, 19 A St., Blaine. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to the park.
Visitors who attend the event will discover an evening of history and celebration, with music, period costumes, refreshments, historic vignettes and interpretive displays – as well as holiday lighting. A special commemoration will take place at the Peace Arch from 6 to 6:30 p.m.
The Peace Arch is a 67-foot monument situated on the border between the two nations, at the 49th parallel. The arch was constructed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the treaty and is considered to be the first structure in the world to celebrate lasting peace. The arch was developed in conjunction with Canadian Peace Arch Provincial Park. For a more in-depth history of the treaty and arch, visit www.peacearchpark.org.
The arch lies between north-bound and south-bound lanes of the freeway, where motorists cross the U.S.-Canada border. Visitors who stop to explore the park, picnic or attend events there enjoy the vast lawns, lush gardens and panoramic views of Point Roberts and Vancouver Island.
For more information about Peace Arch State Park and directions to the park, visit: www.parks.wa.gov/562/Peace-Arch
About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
Follow Washington State Parks:
Share your favorite state park adventure on the State Parks’ blog site at www.AdventureAwaits.com.
Support state parks by purchasing your annual Discover Pass today, and enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun on Washington’s beautiful state-managed recreation lands. For more information, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
Media contacts:
Virginia Painter, State Parks, (360) 902-8562
Christina Alexander Lang, U.S. Canada Peace Assoc., (360) 332-7165
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