Today is Canada Day in Ottawa — a day to celebrate being Canadian. People all around our campground are wearing red and white clothing to symbolize the flag and to show their pride.
But, to me, it was the rice cooker plugged into an electrical outlet in my campground’s bathroom, which was the real reminder of our national identity based on multiculturalism and diversity.
We will hear fireworks tonight but won’t be going downtown for the celebration at Parliament Hill. I’ve been many times and the crush of people is quite incredible.
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Canada Day in Ottawa: Celebrations on Parliament Hill
Starting early in the day, people congregate on Parliament hill and begin to create small territorial piles of blankets and backpacks. They are hoping to secure a good spot for watching the stage performances and fireworks. As the day progresses, and more people arrive, the spots become more compact.
Diehards wear the Canadian flag wrapped toga style, and ride in the back of pick-up trucks yelling something not altogether appropriate or quotable.
Entrepreneurial sorts make swift business selling hotdogs, glow bracelets and temporary tattoos. Later, following the fireworks, the streets will belong to the people who walk brazenly en mass while vehicle pile up behind the revelers.
Best Place to See the Fireworks
Helpful tip: the best place to watch the fireworks is on the patio of a Chateau Laurier restaurant, which overlooks parliament hill and the throngs of people when the festivities end.
When Polite Canadians Go a Little Wild
The extent of the levity and drunkeness is quite remarkable considering that we are Canadian, and not prone to tooting our own horn.
Our Last Canada Day in Ottawa
Today is our last Canada Day in Ottawa in years perhaps. It is unusually cold and rainy. But my kids are undeterred. They are enjoying the puddle jumping and the park.
It will be strange to celebrate Canada Day next year without the sense of community. But, we will find our own way to celebrate. I am looking forward to experiencing the foods, music and dress that other people use to express their national pride.
Update: Finding Canadians While Sailing
Over the years we have found many Canadian sailors out on the water. We even met a family on their second circumnavigation from our neighborhood.
Betty made a friend on a Canadian boat three years ago in French Polynesia. We saw that family again in Fiji and the Philippines. Betty and her friend recently met up for coffee in Victoria, B.C. Rick and Betty also saw fellow sailors in the Victoria Harbour who live aboard their boat SV Maple.
Happy Canada Day to you and the family. We move tomorrow and your lovely grey urns with the branches move to a lovely new home in Kanata Lakes. I’ve really enjoyed your blog so far and I’m so thrilled to be able to experience your adventures with you. Hugs Carolyn Cairns
Good luck with your move tomorrow, Carolyn. Thanks for your nice note!