It is often hard to pinpoint exactly what is Canadiana. From beavers to maple syrup to the Rocky Mountains, the debate continues as to what best symbolizes the true north strong and free.

One such undeniable symbol is the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, whose history dates back to the Great March West in 1874, where police rode west through the prairies on horseback.

Now that piece of Canadian history is coming to Langley in the form of the RCMP Musical Ride.

It will run from July 29 to Aug. 1 at Thunderbird Show Park.

Visitors will celebrate the red serge and 36 sleek black horses of the RCMP Musical Ride, which delights crowds with its choreographed dance-like steps and the play of lances that make this iconic show an unforgettable experience.

Thunderbird Show Park and its community partners, including The Times, are excited to host the Ride and provide the public with the opportunity to experience Canadian heritage and national identity while raising funds for worthy charities — CKNW Orphans’ Fund, Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association and the paediatric wing at Langley Memorial Hospital.

The RCMP Musical Ride hasn’t been to Langley in nine years.

Now they will do two shows a day and seven performances at Thunderbird, from Wednesday to Saturday.

Langley City Mayor Peter Fassbender played a key role in getting the Musical Ride to return to Langley.

“I decided we have got to get the ride out to Langley. I made a few phone calls including to the Commissioner of the RCMP and now it’s coming here and I’m thrilled,” he said.

“When I was in Ottawa I went and visited the stables and met some of the riders.

“It’s pretty neat to see that relationship between riders and their horses. They are like one unit together.”

Fassbender, whose son has been with the RCMP for more than five years, and currently works in Ottawa, freely admits he is biased when it comes to his support for the RCMP.

“The RCMP have had enough challenges. We need to recognize the good things they do,” he said.

“I encourage everyone to see this. This Canadian icon should be celebrated.”

All 36 horses travel by truck from Ottawa, out to the numerous communities the ride performs in.

The operation is enormous with all the gear, tack and bridals also having to be hauled.

There’s amazing entertainment beyond the Musical Ride. West Coast Thunder will be doing the pre-show. The Arabian Regional Horse Show is a not-to-be-missed part of the events.

Langley’s dignataries will take the ceremonial salute to begin the four days. Commemorative posters will be available for purchase and autograph sessions with the riders will be held.

Visit the Stables for photo opportunities. There will also be pony rides and great concessions. The shows go each day at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. except for July 31 (Friday) when there is only an 11 a.m. show.

Cost is $20 per carload and all proceeds go to the Langley Memorial Hospital’s new pediatrics ward, the Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association and the CKNW Orphans Fund.

Musical Ride Fun Facts

; The Musical Ride originated from the North West Mounted Police as they made the Great March West across Canada in 1874. Although the original NWMP were scattered in small groups over tens of thousands of miles of unsettled prairies, they routinely practiced both mounted and foot drills;

; The basis of the Ride’s movements stem from the ability to move a mounted cavalry regiment with some form of organization — e.g. single file, half sections and sections at all three paces;

; Using all black horses compliments the bright red colour of the serge uniform. The horses used are thoroughbreds, although Hanovarian brood mares and stallions were purchased to further supplement and improve the stock’s bloodlines in relation to producing that black colour. These horses are quiet by nature, almost lethargic, so crossing them with thoroughbreds produces a wel- tempered horse with the desired confirmation, said the RCMP;

; There are approximately 27 broodmares at the farm, along with 40 to 50 young horses from foals to three year olds. At the stables in Ottawa, there are approximately 96 horses which include class horses, Musical Ride horses and the young horses in training.