On July 1^st, 1867, three colonies became one and the True North was officially born. Almost 150 years later, Canadians prepare to celebrate our beautiful country’s upcoming birthday. As we toast Canada’s 150th birthday, there are events taking place nationwide which promise to capture the celebratory spirit in the air. Of course it wouldn’t be a celebration without fireworks, which are set to take place at a number of parks and public locations across the country. Whether you plan to spent the long weekend at the cottage or in the 6ix, look no further than Real Style’s roundup of Canada Day festivities. 

Muskoka Region and Niagara Falls 

For those who live in Ontario, both Muskoka and Niagara Falls are hosting birthday celebrations for Canada. Muskoka will be featuring Canada Day festivities at a few of its inns, which are offering dinner with entertainment. Meanwhile, Canadian cuisine is a focus in the region as well. While in Muskoka, you can even see the fireworks while on a sunset cruise. As for Niagara Falls, the famously beautiful tourist area will be hosting a Canada Day parade, complete with marching bands, dancers, jugglers and three Grand Marshals. 

Toronto

Multiple places around Toronto will be celebrating the big day, with an explosion of music from multiple artists and dancers , along with street art and circus art. The Redpath Waterfront Festival will be taking place at HTO Park, and is slated to last three days from July 1st to the 3^rd. With quirky attractions which include The World’s Largest Duck, this festival may be worth a visit if you’re in the city. Meanwhile, the Heritage Ontario Festival will have food, exhibits and music, and lasts until July 3 at Ontario Place. Toronto’s Ribfest will be taking place during Canada Day weekend, with fireworks also expected to light up the sky on the big day.

Montreal

If you want to escape Toronto with family or friends for the weekend, Montreal is only five hours away and always full of excitement and raucous celebrations. You can hit the beach for a relaxing afternoon, dance away on the Village au Pied-du-Courant or enjoy some music at the Montreal Jazz Festival. If you haven’t gone to the annual Canada Day Parade that Montreal hosts, then this could be your year. There’s going to be free cake, and what better way to celebrate a major milestone birthday than by enjoying a slice? 

Victoria, B.C. 

On the East Coast, there will be 11 day’s worth of events at the Inner Harbour and a fun-filled schedule of music, foods and fireworks. From a  potluck style picnic where you can enjoy Ghanaian dishes to cultural music at Gorge Waterway between Tillicum and Admirals Road, Victoria is certainly rolling out the welcome for #Canada150. The Gatsby Mansion and The Huntington Manor Hotel are also hosting a pancake breakfast for Canadians that love food. There will be face painting and music for the kids. Those who love the beats can celebrate Canadian music and other musicians from the world at the TD International Jazz Fest, which will also be on. 

Although we’ve curated a few Canada Day 2017 events taking place from coast to coast, it’s important to remember that it’s the people around you who truly turn a celebration into a party! No matter where you are, celebrate with your nearest and dearest, because home is where the people you truly love are. Happy Canada 150 from Real Style! 

Photo: iStock