In response to "significant interest from the public," the city is offering local groups the opportunity to access one-time funding of up to $15,000 to support events and projects that support Cambridge's 50th anniversary celebrations and might not have been eligible for other funding.
The city is undertaking a Community and Civic Pride campaign to highlight aspects that have made it a distinguishable municipality since its incorporation in 1973 and feels events and projects themed around the 50th anniversary will "boost community pride, while creating a sense of belonging for residents."
The city plans to tap into its reserve fund to accommodate funding requests and has set aside $100,000 to fill those requests.
Staff and council believe such initiatives "contribute to the city’s focus on placemaking, as well as create attractive opportunities for non-residents to come to Cambridge and enjoy what it has to offer."
Some examples of how the city plans to celebrate its milestone anniversary this year include its ongoing “Painting the town 50” campaign featuring its 50 logo on street banners, window clings and branded buttons.
Celebration kits are also being developed and will be made available to neighborhood associations and Cambridge businesses who operate within the road closure/patio program.
Cambridge "swag" like t-shirts and tote bags will be made available for purchase through the city's website, and a Cambridge Fire Truck has been wrapped in 50th branding and will be available to attend various 50th events throughout the year.
Archival information is being shared through social media and at key events, and a special 50th projection show is in development for the Old Post Office.
A lighted 50 sign was donated by Lumin Marquee to be affixed to the Cambridge 3D sign for the duration of 2023, and a second “mobile” 50 sign has been provided by Lumin Marquee to be used at events.
Throughout 2023, city recreation programs and camps will get branded t-shirts, colouring contests and swag.
The city is planting flower beds and planters with colours that reflect the Cambridge logo and tree give-aways are being planned throughout the year in honour of the 50th.
Events that will be awash in anniversary-themed signage and swag include the summer patio program on Main Street and Queen Street, the 40th annual Bernice Adams Legacy Awards Gala, the Bishop Street Operations Centre Open House, the Cambridge Celebration of the Arts, Neighbor’s Day and Neighborhood 50th Celebrations, the Cambridgelicious Restaurant Crawl, ice pads and rink boards at city facilities, Unsilent Night and Winterfest, and Cambridge Farmers Market celebrations.
Further information can be found on the Cambridge 50th web page beginning April 1.
