Canada is marking its 157th birthday and there are plenty of events to take in around the Halifax area.
Now in its second year, the municipality is hosting Kana’ta: Canada Day on July 1.
According to the event’s website, “this re-envisioned format for Canada Day offers a variety of new and refreshed cultural, musical and family-oriented events to enjoy.”
1. Museums
There will be free admission at the Halifax Citadel National Historic site from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The site’s newest exhibit, Fortress Halifax — A City Shaped by Conflict, aims to offer a detailed and inclusive history of the city.
The 78th Highlanders will perform mini pipe and drum concerts as well as special drills and demonstrations between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Canada Day cake will be served starting at 11 a.m.
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 will also be free from 9: 30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There are activities throughout the day, including a citizenship ceremony at 10 a.m., participatory art from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., performances from noon to 3:30 p.m. and chalk art in front of the building from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic at 1675 Lower Water Street will open its doors with free admission from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
2. Parades
In downtown Halifax, the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Canada Day Parade beings at 10 a.m. There are more than 25 groups and floats participating this year.
The parade route begins west on Duke Street to Brunswick Street, then to Spring Garden Road, up to South Park Street, then to Sackville Street to Brunswick Street. The parade disperses at the Scotiabank Centre.
Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo bands performances will be held at 1655 Lower Water Street from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
In Lower Sackville, a parade starts at 9 a.m. on Sackville Drive and is expected to continue until 10:30 a.m.
3. Mawio’mi on the waterfront
The gathering featuring Mi’kmaq music and culture demonstrations runs from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 1655 Lower Water Street.
The day is set to begin with a blessing from elders, followed by performances from artists such as Joe Henry. There will also be free bouncy castles and games for kids in the Salter Sands area.
4. Bedford Days and Patriots Days in Sackville
Events in Dewolf Park in Bedford start at 9 a.m. with a pancake breakfast. There will be bouncy castles and activities for kids. There will also be live music from 11:30 until 1 p.m. and then again starting at 8 p.m.
As part of the multi-day Patriot Days in Lower Sackville, there will be a Teddy Bear Picnic at the Sackville Arenea at 1 p.m.
5. Fireworks
If the weather is good, there will be fireworks on the Halifax waterfront from 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. If it rains, the fireworks will be rescheduled to Friday, July 5.
The Bedford fireworks display at DeWolf Park is scheduled for 10 p.m.
The Lower Sackville fireworks display will be held at First Lake at 10 p.m.
Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency said anyone looking to set off their own fireworks must check with burning restrictions guidelines (updated at 2 p.m. daily) for the latest guidance. Fireworks are not allowed if a burn ban is in place.
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