Canadians celebrate the nation’s 158th birthday with vibrant events, citizenship ceremonies, and tributes to national symbols from coast to coast.
A Nation Reflects and Celebrates
Canadians across all provinces gathered on July 1 to mark the country’s 158th birthday, participating in vibrant celebrations that honoured national pride, diversity, and shared history. This year’s Canada Day was especially notable as it also commemorated two major milestones: the 60th anniversary of the Maple Leaf flag and the 45th anniversary of O Canada as the official national anthem.
Ottawa Leads National Ceremonies
In the nation’s capital, Governor General Mary Simon invested six Canadians — including actor Ryan Reynolds and singer Heather Rankin — into the Order of Canada. Thousands assembled at LeBreton Flats Park for a lineup that included live music, Indigenous cultural showcases, and a flyover by the Snowbirds aerobatics team, capturing the spirit of celebration and reflection.
Toronto and Winnipeg Draw Large Crowds
In Toronto, hundreds filled Nathan Phillips Square to enjoy dance and musical performances, with many pausing to photograph the iconic Toronto sign. Meanwhile, in Winnipeg, festivities at The Forks featured a lively mix of dance battles, local music, and animal exhibits. The city also hosted multiple citizenship ceremonies, where dozens took their oaths as new Canadians.
New Citizens Welcomed Coast to Coast
Citizenship ceremonies were held from Halifax to Vancouver. At the Canadian Museum of Immigration in Halifax, new citizens sang O Canada and received flags as symbols of their new identity. In Winnipeg, Kelly Nguyen expressed hope and pride: “Becoming a Canadian means I have the opportunity to grow, to belong, and to dream.”
Signal Hill Sunrise and Stories of Belonging
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians gathered atop Signal Hill in St. John’s at sunrise, wearing red and white in a heartfelt display of unity. Local resident Sharon Hart, a regular attendee for over 40 years, shared, “It’s just so nice to come and see everybody.”
Vancouver Highlights Indigenous Collaboration
Vancouver’s Canada Day celebrations at Canada Place — the largest outside Ottawa — were organized in partnership with the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. Events extended across the city, from waterfront performances to community gatherings on Granville Island.
Alberta Voices National Tension Amid Festivities
In Edmonton, Albertans filled the legislature grounds under a sunny sky. Some used the occasion to express pride and unity, while others, like Jack O’Brien, shared conflicted views in light of ongoing political tension. “This is the time for us to celebrate Canada,” he said, “but if you ask me tomorrow about separation, it’s a whole different story.”
A Moment of National Unity
Despite differing regional sentiments and political landscapes, Canada Day served as a moment of collective celebration. It reminded citizens of their shared values, evolving identity, and the stories — both old and new — that continue to shape the nation.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
