How Lac-Mégantic is commemorating 10 years after rail disaster
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Posted July 6, 2023 7:55 am.
Last Updated July 6, 2023 9:26 am.
Ten years ago, a runaway train carrying crude oil derailed and exploded in Lac-Mégantic, killing 47 people and destroying parts of downtown.
Several commemorative events are planned to mark the sombre anniversary, including a silent march, a mass and a concert.
Here’s everything taking place in Lac-Mégantic over the next three days.
Thursday – 1:14 a.m.
A silent, candlelit march beginning at the church to pay homage to those who lost their lives.
Thursday – 11 a.m.
Commemorative mass at Sainte-Agnès church with abbots Garrick Huang, Gilles Baril, Francis Morency and Steve Lemay.
Thursday – 12 p.m.
Sainte-Agnès church bells ring after the mass. Flowers will be placed at the commemorative monument in front of the church.
Thursday 7 p.m.
Commemorative concert at Parc des Vétérans featuring Lac-Mégantic artist Marie Onile, who will perform songs from her new album. Also performing: Luc De Larochellière and Andrea Lindsay.
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Townspeople sit on a bench in front of a stone monument inscribed with the names of the 47 victims of a train derailment on the lawn of Ste-Agnès Church in Lac-Mégantic, Que., on Thursday, June 22, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi
MORE ON LAC-MÉGANTIC:
- ‘It could happen again’: Lac-Mégantic demands better rail safety ahead of disaster’s anniversary
- Lac-Mégantic anniversary forcing loved ones to revisit their grief: ‘It makes the pain last’
- Lac-Mégantic prepares for 10th anniversary of Canada’s worst train disaster
- Nearing 10th anniversary of Lac-Mégantic rail disaster, what’s changed?
- Expropriation for construction of Lac-Mégantic rail bypass confirmed
Friday 10 p.m.
Gathering at the Musi-Café, the popular Lac-Mégantic bar and restaurant where nearly two-thirds of the victims were killed. A healing-through-music event featuring Dany Flanders.
Saturday 8 p.m.
Healing concert at Parc des Vétérans featuring Patrice Michaud and Andréanne A. Malette. Original music and song requests from residents.