Community invited to partake in Carleton Place’s first ‘Butterflies in Flight’ tribute

The Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital Foundation (CPDMH Foundation) is reminding residents there are only four days left to purchase butterflies to participate in its inaugural “Butterflies in Flight” tribute celebration event.

Set to take place on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Riverside Park — or at the Canoe Club in the case of rain — the gathering will bring families and community members together to honour the legacy of their lost loved ones. According to a release the town of Carleton Place, the gathering will be a way to for the community to mourn their losses, but also a celebration of remembrance and gratitude.

“It will honour individuals who have chosen to uplift their community through gifts in their Will, memorial gifts in lieu of flowers, and donations received over the years,” explained town officials. Participants will release painted lady butterflies, which CPDMH executive director Robyn Arseneau described as “symbols of love, hope and transformation.”

“By coming together, we will connect as a group as we reflect and honour our loved ones’ legacies through the release of beautiful painted lady butterflies,” Arseneau said. “It will be a place of healing, connection and gratitude.”

On top of the collective butterfly release, the event will also include thoughtful remarks from guest speakers, including reflections on grief and healing from Talk Listen Connect. The day will be enhanced with light refreshments, children’s activities, and displays from community partners.

Butterflies can be purchased for a $35 donation each, or three for $100, with all proceeds going towards supporting the purchase of patient care equipment at CPDMH. Participants may choose to release their butterflies alongside others at the ceremony or arrange for a home release. Organizers noted that those unable to attend can arrange to have their butterflies released on their behalf.

The purchase deadline is quickly nearing on Friday, Aug. 22 and only 250 butterflies are available. For more information or to reserve a butterfly, visit www.cpdmhfoundation.ca or call the Foundation office at 613-257-GIVE (4483).