News
Canada Day is here again!
The differences between Canadian and British life are many, but one of the most striking differences is what happens when the respective ‘national day’ of each country comes round
Here in Britain, it passes by almost unnoticed, but in Canada thousands of arms thrust flags towards the sky and the whole nation (well, much of it, anyway) celebrates.
In fact, it doesn't matter if Canadians aren't even in Canada – they still find a way to celebrate.
Take Canada Day at Trafalgar Square. Last year a mixture of Canadians and Canada-loving Brits got together to enjoy the free festival laid on under the shadow of Nelson's Column. Among the crowd was Outbound's very own Brenda Ticehurst, who reported back on a "very lively day" as follows:
"The whole of Trafalgar Square was decorated in red and white, and there was a really good mix of tourism, merchandise stands and performance artists, a family area with face painting, events like street hockey and, from 5 to 9pm, on-stage entertainment by Canadian dancers and singers."
In fact, Brenda would recommend the event to all Emigrate Canada readers, so it's a good job that Canada returns to the heart of London on Friday 29th June to celebrate Canada Day once again – so all of you who missed out last year can get involved this time.
This year, highlights of the afternoon's activities include a street hockey tournament, freestyle skiing and boarding demonstrations from Olympic stars, First Nations dancing and music, a trip above Niagara Falls in a simulator ride as well as great Canadian food and drink.
The evening concert from the festival stage at the foot of Nelson's Column will kick off at 5.00pm featuring established artists such as the Juno-award winning Sam Roberts Band from Montreal and Toronto-based country rock singer Johnny Reid – recent winner of the Canadian Country Music Award. They will be joined by 18-year-old singer-songwriting sensation Justin Nozuka, who has been getting rave reviews for his live performances and Radio 2 session.
You couldn't possibly sum this all up in one word, could you? Well, after attending Canada Day last year, Outbound's Flis Wright is willing to try. The word she's chosen is "Brilliant!" So before you decide to emigrate to Canada, come and see what all the fuss is about.
Canada Day in London is supported by Canadian Affair and Blackberry.
For more information:
Canada Day
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21 May 2007