THE SIGHTS
Sit back, relax, and watch it all go by. Canada Day in the capital offers lots to see for onlookers of all ages. For the full scope of events, see the NCC website at www.canadascapital.gc.ca

What would Canada Day be without big, bright, bold fireworks? A staple of any celebration, Ottawa’s pyrotechnics are some of the best in the country. The show begins on Parliament Hill at approximately 10pm, but come earlier if you want to score a good spot. The best views are from Jacques Cartier Park, the Canadian Museum of Civilization, Major’s Hill Park, and along the Ottawa River. To celebrate our country—as well as highlight the 400th anniversary of Quebec City, the 250th anniversary of the birth of Canadian parliamentary democracy in Nova Scotia, and the founding of the colony of British Columbia—an impressive military parade will tour through the downtown core, starting at 9am. When the parade arrives on Parliament Hill, look way up to see the famous CF 18s and Snowbirds fly overhead, right after the RCMP Musical Ride, the Changing the Guard, and the raising of the flag. It doesn’t get any more Canadian than this!

Blue Rodeo will perform two shows on the Hill

THE TUNES
Throughout the day, dozens of talented acts will hit the stage on Parliament Hill, in Major’s Hill Park, and in Jacques Cartier Park. For the full line-up, see the NCC website at www.canadascapital.gc.ca.

When it comes to celebrating our country’s birthday, no band is better suited to do the honours than Blue Rodeo. The iconic Canadian country-rockers hit the stage on Parliament Hill for both the noon and evening shows. Also on the bill is Suzie McNeil, who was a finalist on the popular ‘Rock Star: INXS’ series. She may not have won that gig, but the talented rocker is making a mighty big splash on her own. Catch her on both Parliament Hill at noon and at Jacques Cartier Park in the evening. Hawksley Workman is becoming a nation-wide favourite with his powerful voice and insightful lyrics. The Huntsville native performs at Major’s Hill Park in the evening. Hailing from the west coast, Hayley Sales is being touted as one to watch. The laid-back songstress is sure to capture the Canada Day vibe with her sunny tunes. Don’t miss her when she performs at Major’s Hill Park in the evening.

Fireworks light up the night sky

THE EVENTS
Looking for some interactive ideas? There’s a lot to do throughout the day, so pick you favourites and get out there! See the NCC website at www.canadascapital.gc.ca for the full list of happenings.

Jacques Cartier Park plays host to a Mini Circus, where participants can learn to juggle, hula-hoop, work the devil sticks and poi, and more. No experience required! If circus antics aren’t your speed, grab a piece of chalk and leave your mark—be it through words, illustrations, or whatever your imagination churns out—with Chalk Talks in Jacques Cartier Park. Chalk and pavement space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Think you’re the next Canadian Idol? Try your hand at becoming the Canadian Anthem Idol first. Head to the pavilion in Major’s Hill Park and sing your heart out for some great prizes. All of this is bound to make you hungry, so drop by the 16th annual Great Canadian Chicken BBQ, also in Major’s Hill Park. Try a delicious chicken sandwich or a lighter chicken Caesar salad to get your energy back up.