It’s a great day to be Canadian in Calgary as the city plays host to a wide range of activities celebrating the 147th birthday of our country.
Beginning at Fort Calgary with a free pancake breakfast, the line of hungry participants wound all the way through the park.
Organizers say the huge turnout was a huge change from the celebration last year.
“Last year, after the flood, we carried on with Canada Day but we didn’t get the attendance,” said Sara-Jane Gruetzner, the president and CEO of Fort Calgary. “I think people were dealing with other priorities so it’s nice to see everybody coming out.”
Ellaine Torcuator was one of the many residents who took part for the first time. “I’ve been here almost seven years; I haven’t really celebrated Canada Day because I’m usually working. This is the first time I get to spend it with my husband and that’s really really special.”
Visitors to Fort Calgary were also treated to live music, a petting zoo, and bouncy castles for the kids.
It was a double celebration for Heritage Park this year as well, with the park also celebrating its 50th anniversary along with the nation’s birthday.
Mayor Naheed Nenshi attended the celebrations there as he welcomed 75 new Canadians to the country during their citizenship ceremony.
Nenshi shared some sage advice with the new residents. “Be fully Canadian, live and breathe this country with every heartbeat and give back to the community in every way you can to make it easier for those who come after.”
There is still a lot more fun to come with a live concert at the Riverfront Stage. It will feature Scarlett Jane, Ridley Bent, Michael Bernard Fitzgerald, and Mother Mother. The concert runs until 11 p.m.
A powwow is continuing at Prince’s Island Park until 6 p.m.
Heritage Park will be setting off fireworks at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.
The city will be holding their fireworks display from the Centre Street Bridge at 10:45 p.m.
