Though the traditional activities of most Canadians on Canada Day consists of a BBQ, bug repellent, sunscreen, and fireworks, a visit to one of the many historic buildings or landmark across our great nation is another fantastic way to celebrate our country's birthday.
"There are so many wonderful historic properties for Canadians to visit on Canada Day," says Carolyn Quinn, Director of Communications with the Heritage Canada Foundation. "Grand estates like the Lougheed House in Calgary and Fulford Place in Brockville, to replica villages like Barkerville, B.C., and Kings Landing in New Brunswick, where families can immerse themselves in 19th century living.
"Canadians can also take advantage of our living, breathing historic downtowns and neighbourhoods by walking their streets, shopping their boutiques and stopping at their cafés, and in so doing, keeping our historic places alive."
Whether you live in Port Jolie, Nova Scotia or Sooke, British Columbia, there are unique and fascinating heritage sites from coast to coast that can help make this Canada Day more poignant for you and your family, and give you a glimpse into the lives of the people who made this country what it is today.
Old Town Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Full of maritime history and significance, Old Town Lunenberg was one of the most prosperous harbour communities in the late 18th century. Built by the British in 1753, the town attracted a wide variety of immigrants, whose influence can still be seen more than 250 years later. Today visitors can tour the 400 historic buildings that make up this UNESCO World Heritage site, including Solomon House.
Rideau Hall, Ontario
The home of Canada's Governor General, Rideau Hall is a site not to be missed this July long weekend. The official residence and workplace of the Governor General since 1867, this heritage building is open to the public year round and can be toured inside and out.
"It is a great pleasure for Sharon and me to open the doors of Rideau Hall to all Canadians and to visitors from abroad," says Governor General, David Johnston. "We invite you to come and explore the majestic beauty that is Rideau Hall, where Canada comes together. Let our knowledgeable guides take you on a tour of the residence, and take in the beautiful splendour of the grounds."
For more information visit the Governor General of Canada website at gg.ca.
Wanuskewin, Saskatchewan
Situated among the rolling hills and willow thick landscape of the prairies is Wanuskewin, a sacred place where the Cree Indians have been honouring life and death for over 5,000 years. Still an active meeting place for Native Canadians, this national heritage park is visited yearly by more than 150,000 visitors. With on-site archaeological digs and exhibits to view, this is the perfect place for families to learn about our native history.
The Gulf of Georgia Cannery, British Columbia
With the rising popularity of canned salmon in 1894, the Georgia Cannery became an industry leader with its new way of preserving locally caught salmon. Though it was know for its fish canning success, it was also known for creating the first multicultural community. With workers of Japanese, Chinese and Native heritage, the cannery offered minimal pay for long hours of hard work. Now a museum, this site gives visitors a look at the workers who toiled for years behind the cannery's closed doors and the tough lives many of them were forced to endure.
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