Canada Day Celebrations Kick Off Across Winnipeg
June 29, 2015
July 1 marks Canada’s 148th birthday as a self-governing dominion of Great Britain, and celebrations across Winnipeg will be many. The national statutory holiday, which is celebrated in all provinces and territories, falls on Wednesday this year.
Thousands of Winnipeggers will begin their day at Shaw Park for the 5th annual Living Flag event to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the beloved red and white maple leaf. After a 9 a.m arrival, attendees will pick up a red or white shirt and be assigned a position in order to replicate the patterns of the Canadian flag in a photograph. According to Downtown Winnipeg BIZ (Business Improvement Zone), the shot will be taken at 11 a.m. In 2013, Canadian Post chose a Living Flag photo to be featured on a stamp as part of the Canadian Pride series. Following the photo op, participants will enjoy live music or head to one of the other numerous venues around Winnipeg to celebrate with fellow Canadians.
Celebrations at The Forks begin at 10 a.m with crafts at Variety Heritage Adventure Park, followed by traditional storytelling, drumming, and dancing led by the Oodena Celebration Circle. The Museum of Human Rights is also offering an outdoor educational series. Grey Cup festival games and other family-friendly activities are also on the list of Canada Day activities at The Forks. The signature Manitoba Live events will kick off at 1 p.m with music on three different stages, offering a variety of performances. To top off the patriotic evening, there will be an 11 p.m fireworks display.
Osborne Village boasts the largest running street festival of its kind. With six stages for performances, 12 extended patios, lots of great food, and a giant, family fun zone.
Winnipeggers can also visit Canada Inns, which is hosting a 15th annual Canada Day Picnic in the Park at Assiniboine Park. Starting at 1 p.m, attendees can take advantage of the free park-and-ride that is available at the Canadian Mennonite University. Musical performances and magic shows begin at 1 p.m, followed by free birthday cake at 3:30 p.m and a variety of other activities. A 10:40 p.m fireworks display will conclude in what Kid Friendly Manitoba claims is Winnipeg’s biggest Canada Day event.
About Leah Watkins
Leah Watkins has spent the last seven years teaching writing and literary analysis in secondary education, as well as practicing freelance editing and photography. Prior to completing a degree in English and earning a graduate degree in education, she fulfilled a five-year commitment in the Air Force.