CANADA will celebrate its 150th birthday next year beginning with a New Year’s Eve event in the capital, Ottawa.
The early-evening family-friendly celebration will include the lighting of a spectacular cauldron that will become a lasting symbol throughout the year.
The 150th celebrations will give Canadians and visitors a memorable year of high-calibre experiences with 12 months of bold events, immersive experiences and all-out celebrations.
In the summer, Ottawa will be the focal point of the celebrations.
Residents and visitors from both sides of the Ottawa River will come together to enjoy a Canadian first: an Interprovincial Picnic on the Royal Alexandra Bridge on July 2.
The historic bridge will be transformed into a lush green haven, where people can picnic on the grass while enjoying majestic river views.
Then there is Sky Lounge, which will take flight from July 14-22 at OttawaCity Hall. Each evening, diners will be hoisted 46 metres in the air to enjoy breathtaking views and fine dining.
Larger-than-life fire-breathing mechanical creatures will roam the streets of downtown Ottawa from July 26-30.
Meanwhile, entry to all Canada’s national parks will be free next year for everyone.
The Great Trail of Canada is nearing completion in time for the nation’s birthday.
Stretching 24,000 kilometres through Canada’s 13 provinces and territories and connecting three oceans, the trail is set to become the longest recreational trail in the world, promoting experiences such as kayaking, hiking, cycling, horse-riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
The country’s major cities are linked by the path, which will feature new scenic pathways along with a network of more than 400 existing community trails.
More reasons to visit Canada in January's edition of The Senior.
