It was the first time that representatives from all three levels of government, all uniquely dressed in period costumes, held a joint New Year's Levee celebration.

Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, who was dressed as a businessman of the day, reminded everyone that we have so much to be grateful for and that we should never take what we have for granted.

He noted that many people made sacrifices and commitments, some even gave their lives, so that we can enjoy what we have today in Canada.

The event was held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday at the Gale Centre, where visitors were treated with music, entertainment and food.

The levee was the first of many events planned by the city of Niagara Falls, volunteers and numerous organizations to commemorate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812.

Federal Justice Minister and Niagara Falls MP Rob Nicholson, who was dressed as a lawyer from that era, said getting dressed was a bit of an operation with suspenders and a frilly shirt.

"I can't remember ever having this much attention with anything I've ever worn. You go with 30 years of wearing blue suits," said Nicholson, adding he wasn't too keen about dressing as someone from the military because they tend to get shot.

Nicholson said we have a lot to celebrate because this was a significant moment in our history.

"After that war it was never called into question again whether Canada would have a separate existence. This is a celebration worth having, worth commemorating, and worth investing in."

Niagara Falls MPP Kim Craitor, who was dressed as a captain from a Swiss regiment, said many people who came to Canada from other countries ended up fighting in the war.

"This is an authentic uniform, it's valued at about $1,500 so I'm being very careful not to spill coffee on it. It's an honour to be wearing it. The pants are made of wool and what I know for sure is that if you need to use the washroom there are 16 buttons that you have to undo."

Jim Hill, manager of Heritage Operations with the Niagara Parks Commission, said he was amazed to see the detailed work that went into making some of the costumes.

"The mayor and his family look like they stepped out of a Jane Austen novel, they really look sharp. Some people have even adopted the name of a historic figure and that's pretty cool because they learn who the person was and what life was like for them."

Some of the other dignitaries who were dressed in costumes included Niagara Region Chairman Gary Burroughs, Lord Mayor Dave Eke from Niagara-on-the-Lake, Brian Merrett, CEO with the Niagara 1812 Bicentennial Legacy Council, Town Crier Derek Tidd and Sherman Zavitz, historian for the city of Niagara Falls.

Other upcoming 1812 Bicentennial events include The Great Niagara Portage Adventure on June 9, Chime the Bells at Christ Church on June 16, the Battle of Chippawa Commemorative Service on July 5, and the opening of the Niagara Falls History Museum on July 21.

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