What changes in Canada Day celebrations await residents this year
On July 1, for the first time in three years, large-scale events throughout the country will take place.
The 155th anniversary celebrations will take place across Canada: the official website provides an interactive map with entertainment in each region.
On July 1, admission to 47 national parks, 171 historic sites (including sacred sites, archaeological sites, battlefields, heritage houses, historic districts, scientific discovery sites and more) and five national marine sanctuaries will be free.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeau urged all Canadians to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity: "From inspiring historic sites to breathtaking national parks and marine reserves, there is no better way to spend this holiday than immersing yourself in history or heading out into nature with friends or family."
Many communities are rethinking Canada Day celebrations to pay tribute to Native peoples. Last year, Canada Day was marred by the fearful discovery of unmarked graves at the site of the former Kamloops Boarding School in British Columbia, after which thousands of people in orange in Winnipeg demonstrated and toppled statues of Queen Victoria and Elizabeth on the Manitoba Legislature grounds in an attempt to draw attention to the treatment of Indigenous peoples.
This year, organizers of the celebration at Forks, which is a National Historic Landmark of Canada, renamed Canada Day New Day, canceled fireworks and planned activities both entertaining and thought-provoking.
