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Nintendo Switch Prices to Change in Canada: What to Expect

Nintendo to Adjust Switch Prices in Canada

Nintendo Canada just made a move that has gamers raising their eyebrows. The gaming giant announced upcoming price changes for Nintendo Switch consoles and accessories—though it hasn’t confirmed whether that means an increase or decrease, the wording suggests that an increase is likely.

The company cites “current market conditions” as the reason behind the shift. Given the global economic challenges, this statement usually points to higher costs ahead.

Which Products Are Affected?

The upcoming price changes will apply to the entire Nintendo Switch family, including:

  • Nintendo Switch (standard model)

  • Nintendo Switch – OLED Model

  • Nintendo Switch Lite

  • Physical and digital games

  • Switch accessories

  • Nintendo Switch Online memberships

  • Amiibo figures

Essentially, nearly everything under the Nintendo Switch brand umbrella is affected—except one key item.

What’s Not Affected? The Switch 2

Nintendo was quick to clarify that the Nintendo Switch 2—its latest console—is not included in the price adjustment. The Switch 2, still fresh to the market and part of a separate product family, will retain its current pricing.

This decision clearly separates Nintendo’s current generation of products from its previous line-up, giving buyers a hint that the Switch 2 is their long-term focus moving forward.

Why a Price Change Now?

The timing has some analysts and fans puzzled. The original Switch launched in 2017 and has already seen major market saturation. With the arrival of newer hardware, many expected discounts—not hikes.

But citing “market conditions” hints at rising costs in manufacturing, shipping, or inflation-related pressures, which are often passed on to consumers. While no exact numbers have been shared yet, the impact could be felt across hardware, games, and digital services.

Will This Affect Other Regions?

So far, these price adjustments apply only to Canada. But pricing shifts in one region often act as a test case before broader global rollouts. Canadian consumers may just be the first to experience what could become a wider trend.

If demand holds and sales don’t drop significantly, Nintendo could expand the pricing changes to the U.S., Europe, or Asia in the months ahead.

When Will We Know More?

Nintendo has promised to share further details starting August 1st. Until then, Canadian retailers may continue selling at current prices, offering a window for consumers to stock up on consoles or accessories before any increases kick in.

Final Thoughts: Act Before Prices Shift

If you’ve been holding off on buying a Switch console or expanding your game collection, now might be the time. Until August 1, pricing remains stable. But if history is any indicator, the coming change is more likely to be upward than downward.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for updates on Nintendo’s pricing strategy and how it could reshape the gaming market in Canada and beyond.

Canada Immigration 2025: New Opportunities for Applicants

Canada’s Immigration Outlook: A Rising Opportunity for Indian Talent

Canada’s immigration strategy is entering a dynamic new phase, and Indian applicants stand to gain. With plans to welcome over 500,000 newcomers each year through 2026, Canada is doubling down on skilled immigration, student pathways, and regional pilot programs.

For Indian professionals, students, entrepreneurs, and families, the timing has never been better to explore immigration routes to Canada. This shift is backed by both labour market demands and Canada’s broader goal to strengthen international ties—particularly with India.

Why the Focus on Indian Immigration?

India continues to be a top contributor to Canada’s immigration pool, including permanent residents, international students, and skilled workers. As Canada’s population ages and critical sectors face staffing shortages, tapping into India’s English-speaking, digitally proficient workforce offers a natural fit.

From Express Entry to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Canada is enhancing multiple streams to bring in qualified individuals—many of whom already have Canadian education or work experience.

Sector-Specific Growth Means More Pathways

Sectors like healthcare, infrastructure, skilled trades, STEM, and clean energy are all facing significant labour shortages. Canadian provinces are responding with increased PNP quotas, especially for:

  • International graduates

  • Skilled trades workers

  • Entrepreneurs and business investors

This creates a window of opportunity for Indian applicants with the right qualifications—or community and family connections in Canada.

What Indian Applicants Can Expect

If you’re considering immigration, here’s what could be coming your way by early 2026:

  • More Express Entry Invitations for in-demand skills
  • Expanded student visa approvals, especially in PG and STEM programs
  • Faster visa processing with improved clarity and transparency
  • Potential LMIA exemptions in sectors with high labour shortages
  • Increased family reunification quotas with faster timelines
  • Boosted business migration channels for investors and entrepreneurs

Education: A Strong and Growing Link

In 2024 alone, over 225,000 Indian students enrolled in Canadian institutions. Many of these students use education as a springboard to permanent residency. Strengthening this link through research collaborations and faster visa processing continues to be a key focus for both governments.

Education also plays a central role in cultural exchange and long-term economic integration—key aspects of Canada’s immigration goals.

Emerging Pilot Programs and Regional Pathways

Canada is also exploring new rural and regional immigration programs, aimed at attracting newcomers to smaller communities. These programs often favour applicants who have family or community ties—a factor many Indian applicants can leverage.

By broadening these pathways, Canada hopes to distribute skilled talent across provinces while offering a more personal route to immigration.

Diplomatic Relations and Economic Alignment

Despite past diplomatic tensions, immigration remains a vital and largely insulated avenue for cooperation between India and Canada. As tech, EV manufacturing, and clean energy sectors grow, both countries are seeking ways to align talent, research, and workforce exchange.

Immigration is expected to remain a core tool in that alignment, ensuring steady collaboration and economic resilience.

Why Now is the Time to Act

With annual immigration targets exceeding 485,000 newcomers, Canada presents a rare window of opportunity. Whether you’re a student, skilled worker, entrepreneur, or family sponsor, the conditions are right, and the programs are evolving to match today’s global needs.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest insights on Canadian immigration, policy changes, and what it means for Indian applicants.

Submarine Spotted in Vancouver for Canada Fleet Week

Royal Canadian Navy showcases ships, a submarine, and more during Fleet Week at North Vancouver’s Shipyards. Free tours and displays run through July 6.

Fleet Week Brings Navy Showcase to North Vancouver

North Vancouver’s waterfront is buzzing this week as the Royal Canadian Navy launches its 2025 Fleet Week celebrations, drawing locals and tourists alike with a rare chance to step aboard military vessels — including a submarine spotted in Burrard Inlet.

Canada Day Kicks Off Maritime Festivities

Fleet Week officially began on Canada Day, July 1, with crowds gathering at the Shipyards and Burrard Dry Dock Pier. The Royal Canadian Navy has stationed multiple vessels for public viewing, including the Halifax-class frigate HMCS Regina and a Victoria-class submarine, offering an up-close look at Canada’s maritime defense fleet.

Tours, Rides, and Performances Through the Weekend

Visitors can tour HMCS Regina or enjoy performances by the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy throughout the day. Although the popular boat rides aboard the Navy’s rigid-hulled inflatable boat are sold out, walk-through ship tours remain available from July 2 to July 6, with time slots offered on Eventbrite:

  • Tuesday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Friday: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Saturday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Venue and Access Details for Visitors

All activities are centred at 15 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver. The event site includes interactive navy displays, live performances, and a Canada Day celebration hosted by the Lions Gate Rotary Club. Parking is limited, so attendees are encouraged to use public transit — particularly the SeaBus for direct access to the venue.

A Navy Initiative to Educate and Connect

Fleet Week offers more than just entertainment. It’s part of the Navy’s ongoing effort to foster public understanding of Canada’s naval operations, personnel, and technological capabilities. The hands-on activities aim to engage Canadians of all ages, highlighting the importance of maritime security and service.

How to Join the Experience

Attendance is free, but advance registration for ship tours is required via Eventbrite. Weekend slots are filling quickly, making early sign-up essential for those hoping to join this unique experience on Vancouver’s waterfront.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

White Rock Council Approves 6-Storey Maple Street Apartments

White Rock moves forward with 78-unit apartment near Peace Arch Hospital, with 20% designated affordable rentals under new housing policy.

Development Gains Approval Near Key Health Hub

A major residential development is set to reshape the Maple Street corridor in White Rock, as city council advances a six-storey, 78-unit apartment building located at 1589 Maple Street, near Peace Arch Hospital. During its June 23 meeting, the council granted second and third readings to the required rezoning bylaw, paving the way for a significant addition to the city’s housing stock.

Location and Design in Focus

The project will rise at the corner of Maple Street and North Bluff Road, a strategic location offering proximity to healthcare facilities, transit routes, and community amenities. Designed as a market strata building, the development includes a key housing component—20% of the units will be allocated as affordable rental housing, a move aligned with British Columbia’s broader housing initiatives.

New Policy Changes Shape Approval Process

Notably, the rezoning process did not include a public hearing due to recent changes under B.C.’s small-scale multi-unit housing policy. This provincial policy aims to expedite housing developments by reducing procedural delays, especially for projects that align with housing affordability goals.

Conditions for Final Approval Set

While the council’s support moves the project closer to reality, final adoption is conditional. Requirements include the dedication of a five-metre-by-five-metre corner cut at the intersection, an additional 2.8-metre dedication along North Bluff Road, and the registration of all necessary covenants and rights-of-way. Developers must also adhere to an approved arborist report during demolition and construction phases.

Environmental and Landscaping Considerations

Environmental stewardship is being addressed through mandatory compliance with arborist recommendations. Additionally, the developer must submit a finalized cost estimate for landscaping, ensuring that green space and aesthetic features meet community standards and remain sustainable throughout the building’s lifecycle.

Meeting Housing Needs with Balanced Growth

The Maple Street development represents White Rock’s commitment to increasing residential density while maintaining thoughtful urban planning. With affordability provisions and strategic oversight, the city is working to balance market growth and accessibility, addressing urgent housing demands across British Columbia.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Fawns Rescued from Traps in Two Nova Scotia Communities

Two stranded fawns were safely rescued in Sherose Island and Truro, Nova Scotia, thanks to quick action from local residents and officials.

Residents Discover Stranded Fawns in Separate Locations

In two separate incidents over the weekend, residents of Sherose Island and Truro, Nova Scotia, came to the aid of distressed fawns trapped in dangerous environments. The rescues occurred on Friday and Saturday, showcasing a strong community response to protect local wildlife.

Sherose Island Rescue Involves Kayak Intervention

On Friday morning, Talent Wilson of Sherose Island was walking her dog when she heard cries coming from a nearby marsh. Investigating further, she spotted a young deer stuck in thick mud, unable to move as the tide rose. Recognizing the imminent danger, Wilson flagged down a passing municipal vehicle.

Darren Brown, an employee with the Municipality of Barrington, responded to the call. Equipped with a kayak, he paddled out to the fawn, secured it safely between his legs, and brought it to dry land. The animal showed signs of distress but was otherwise unharmed.

Second Fawn Found Trapped in Truro Culvert

Just a day later and over 300 kilometres away, Alton Rushton encountered a similar situation in Truro. A fawn had fallen into a gated culvert, trapped approximately six to eight feet below ground level. After attempting to retrieve the animal himself, Rushton sought assistance from two bystanders.

The rescue was eventually completed with the help of a Truro police officer, who donned gloves and carefully retrieved the fawn. The deer was released to safety near the railway tracks.

Wildlife Experts Explain Seasonal Behavior

Hope Swinimer, founder of the Hope for Wildlife rehabilitation centre in Seaforth, explained that fawns are often found alone during summer months. Mother deer typically hide their young during the day, returning to feed them at dawn and dusk.

However, signs such as excessive crying, flies, or awkward body posture may indicate distress. In such cases, intervention may be necessary. “We always assess before acting,” Swinimer said. “Many fawns are not abandoned — they’re just waiting.”

Local Efforts Applauded as Awareness Grows

Both rescues were credited to swift community awareness and cooperation between residents and officials. “You don’t want to see any animal suffer like that,” Wilson shared, relieved the fawn was saved in time.

Brown, reflecting on the Sherose Island rescue, added with humour, “I told him, ‘Tell your mother I helped you — and to stay out of my garden.’”

These incidents serve as reminders of both the vulnerability of wildlife and the power of timely local action in ensuring their survival.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canada Day 2025 Events Light Up Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara

Celebrate Canada Day 2025 with fireworks, concerts, parades, and family fun across Hamilton, Burlington, and Niagara Falls.

Hamilton Hosts Citywide Celebrations

Residents in Hamilton will enjoy a full day of festivities on Canada Day, with the City organizing a free family event at Bayfront Park. Activities include children’s art and recreation zones, food vendors, and cultural performances. The event aims to create a festive atmosphere in the heart of the city, open to the public all day.

Evening Fireworks to Conclude the Day

A custom-designed fireworks display will close out Hamilton’s celebrations at 10 p.m. This grand finale, visible from Bayfront Park, is expected to draw thousands of spectators. Officials advise attendees to arrive early and consider public transit, as parking will be limited.

Gage Park Festival Wraps Up

It’s Your Festival, one of Hamilton’s largest summer events, will hold its final day of programming on July 1 at Gage Park. Open from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., the festival features live music, dance, arts, food trucks, and family entertainment. Organizers highlight that the event is inclusive and designed for all ages.

Community Concerts in Dundas

In Dundas, a summer concert will take place at Dundas Driving Park from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring the Dundas Concert Band and DCB Brass Quintet. Earlier, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Dundurn National Historic Site will host the Canada Day Military Tattoo, showcasing the Regimental Band of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, traditional pipe bands, and highland dancing.

Pool Access to Beat the Heat

With temperatures expected to reach 27°C, Hamilton’s outdoor pools and wading pools will be open throughout the day. Ten outdoor pools across the city, including Coronation, Green Acres, and Victoria Park, are offering drop-in swims. Families with young children can access supervised wading pools at locations like Gage Park, Powell Park, and J.C. Beemer Park.

Burlington Celebrates at the Waterfront

Spencer Smith Park will be the centre of Burlington’s Canada Day celebration, starting with a 5K run at 8:30 a.m. The event schedule includes yoga sessions, food and artisan markets, a dedicated Kids Zone, and live music performances throughout the afternoon and evening. Musical acts include Lucky Honey and My Son the Hurricane. The Burlington Teen Tour Band will lead the official opening ceremony at 4 p.m.

Drone Show and Fireworks in Burlington

New this year, a drone light show will illuminate the sky at 9:40 p.m., followed by a traditional fireworks display at 10 p.m. The City encourages attendees to bring chairs and blankets and enjoy a full day of programming on the lakefront.

Niagara Falls Marks the Day with Light and Sound

Niagara Falls will join the celebrations with a special Canada Day fireworks show at 10 p.m., launching from the falls area. Additionally, the falls will be illuminated in red and white every hour, on the hour, throughout the evening. Extended hours at local attractions are expected to draw large crowds, both local and visiting.

How to Join the Celebrations
All events are open to the public, with most activities free of charge. Organizers across the three cities advise early arrival for headline performances and fireworks shows. Visitors are encouraged to check local websites for full schedules and updates.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Tornado Alert Issued and Cancelled Within Minutes

Environment Canada issued a tornado warning near London, Ont., but cancelled it 12 minutes later following an unconfirmed report of a funnel cloud.

Sudden Alert Issued for London and Area

Environment Canada issued a tornado warning on Monday afternoon at 3:48 p.m. for London, Parkhill, and Eastern Middlesex County in Ontario. The alert triggered immediate notifications on cell phones and local emergency networks, urging residents to take shelter.

Tornado Warning Cancelled Shortly After

Just 12 minutes later, the warning was lifted without confirmation of a tornado touching down. By 4:25 p.m., all warnings and watches had been removed for the London region, although evening forecasts still called for a 70% chance of showers or thundershowers.

Lucan Funnel Cloud Report Sparked Alert

According to Environment Canada meteorologist Luke Crawford, the warning was based on a 3:30 p.m. phone report from a storm chaser near Lucan, north of London. The caller described a visible funnel cloud, prompting immediate action by meteorologists.

Social Media Images Raised Further Questions

Photographs posted to social media appeared to show a potential tornado forming between 3:24 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. in the Lucan area. However, no official confirmation of ground contact or damage had been made as of late Monday afternoon.

Why the Warning Was Issued Without Confirmation

Crawford explained that the decision to issue a warning was made out of caution. “The individual saw what they believed was a funnel cloud, but we couldn’t confirm whether it touched down,” he said. “The alert was issued based on protocol for public safety.”

How Canadians Should Respond to Sudden Warnings

Environment Canada advises Canadians to seek immediate shelter if they see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, or hear a loud roaring noise. “Warnings may be brief, but the risk is real,” said Crawford. Residents are reminded to remain alert and monitor local forecasts during unstable weather.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Lightning Behind Surge in Northwest Ontario Wildfires

Lightning suspected in spike of wildfires across northwest Ontario; 35 active fires reported as of Monday, with Red Lake region hit hardest.

Surge in Fires Reported Over the Weekend

A significant increase in wildfire activity was reported across northwestern Ontario over the weekend, with lightning identified as a likely cause behind 11 new fires that ignited across the region. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry confirmed that eight of those fires were located within the Red Lake fire management zone.

Current Fire Situation in the Northwest

As of Monday afternoon, 35 wildfires are active in the Northwest Region, according to Chris Marchand, fire information officer with Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES). Of these, 13 remain not under control, two are being held, six are under control, and 14 are under observation. Ten additional fires were declared out over the previous 24 hours.

Weather and Lightning as Contributing Factors

AFFES officials stated that recent lightning activity likely sparked the surge in fire starts. In areas where drought conditions linger beneath the surface, lightning strikes may not ignite fires immediately but can cause delayed flare-ups as vegetation dries out. With continued unsettled weather expected, authorities anticipate more fire activity in the coming days.

Response and Containment Efforts Underway

Despite the recent spike, firefighting crews have made strong progress in controlling the newer blazes, aided by higher humidity and intermittent rainfall. Major efforts are focused on Red Lake 12, a massive wildfire burning near Deer Lake and Sandy Lake First Nations. The fire has now grown beyond 195,000 hectares but is currently showing low fire activity due to recent rain.

AFFES has deployed 23 FireRanger crews to the Red Lake 12 blaze, supported by helicopters conducting water drops. Another major fire, Sioux Lookout 18 near Cat Lake First Nation, remains out of control but is currently exhibiting minimal fire behaviour.

Safety Reminders Ahead of Canada Day

With Canada Day celebrations approaching, officials are urging residents and visitors to practice fire safety. Campfires should be kept small and sheltered from the wind, with proper clearance from surrounding vegetation. Fireworks displays should be conducted in areas free from flammable material—ideally over water or gravel—and fire suppression tools should be readily available.

AFFES also advises the public to inspect the area for any remaining heat or embers after fireworks are discharged to prevent unintended ignitions.

Ongoing Monitoring and Community Vigilance

Authorities continue to monitor wildfire conditions across the region closely. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official provincial wildfire updates and to report any signs of smoke or fire activity. As lightning and dry conditions persist, vigilance remains key to preventing further spread.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

First LNG Shipment Departs B.C. for Asia, Marking New Era

Canada exports its first LNG cargo to Asia from Kitimat, B.C., a milestone in energy diversification and economic growth after a decade of planning.

Historic Shipment Launches Canada’s LNG Export Era

Canada’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) export shipment has departed Kitimat, British Columbia, bound for Asia. The GasLog Glasgow tanker, loaded at LNG Canada’s terminal, marks a pivotal milestone in the nation’s energy sector, signaling the beginning of a new phase in Canadian energy exports.

Departure from Kitimat Terminal

The GasLog Glasgow, a specialized LNG carrier, set sail from LNG Canada’s berth in Kitimat, loaded with LNG produced from northeastern B.C. gas fields. Online maritime trackers confirm its route across the Pacific to a port in South Korea. The shipment signifies the culmination of over a decade of development by LNG Canada and its partners.

Economic Impact on Local Communities

Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth hailed the shipment as a long-awaited achievement. “For a town of less than 9,000, managing an influx of over 7,000 rotating workers was no small task,” Germuth said. He credited LNG Canada for its proactive efforts in minimizing the project’s impact on the community, praising the company for setting a new standard in local engagement and environmental stewardship.

Navigating B.C.’s Remote Northern Waters

Two members of the British Columbia Coast Pilots guided the vessel through a complex 15-hour, 300-kilometre route from Triple Island to Kitimat. Capt. Steve Kennedy called it a “historic moment,” highlighting over ten years of collaboration among government, industry, and Indigenous communities to ensure safety and reduce environmental risks.

A $40 Billion Energy Investment

LNG Canada is a joint venture involving Shell, Malaysia’s Petronas, PetroChina, Japan’s Mitsubishi Corp., and South Korea’s KOGAS. Its first phase aims to export 14 million tonnes of LNG annually, with a second phase potentially doubling output. The project represents a $40 billion investment—Canada’s largest private-sector infrastructure undertaking to date.

Strategic Goals and Global Market Reach

The LNG is cooled to –162°C and shipped in liquid form to reach global buyers, offering a higher price point than U.S. pipeline sales. This shift helps diversify Canada’s energy exports beyond the American market and aligns with federal goals to expand trade in Asia, particularly amid volatile trade dynamics with the U.S.

Environmental Concerns and Future Outlook

While LNG is promoted as a cleaner alternative to coal in emerging markets, critics urge caution. Nichole Dusyk of the International Institute for Sustainable Development warned that continued investment in fossil fuels may conflict with Canada’s climate commitments. She emphasized the growing competitiveness of renewables and the potential for oversupply in the LNG market.

Next in Line: Indigenous-Led LNG Projects

Beyond LNG Canada, additional projects are advancing, including Cedar LNG (a partnership between Pembina Pipeline and the Haisla Nation), Woodfibre LNG near Squamish, and the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG project by the Nisga’a Nation. These ventures reflect Indigenous participation and evolving energy strategies on Canada’s West Coast.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Calgary Lights Up for Canada Day 2025 Festivities

From fireworks to live music and street fairs, Calgary is set to celebrate Canada Day 2025 with city-wide events and family-friendly entertainment.

Calgary Set to Celebrate Canada’s 158th Birthday in Style

Calgary is preparing for a vibrant and jam-packed celebration of Canada Day 2025 on Tuesday, July 1, with events scheduled across the city and nearby communities. With activities ranging from fireworks and concerts to cultural programs and family zones, the city is offering residents and visitors a variety of ways to mark the nation’s 158th birthday.

Major Venues Hosting Events Across the City

Key celebrations will take place in downtown Calgary, particularly at The Confluence Historic Site, East Village, and Spruce Meadows. These locations will host day-long activities including concerts, family attractions, cultural showcases, and food fairs.

The Confluence will serve as a central hub with free cultural programming, walking tours, and a live evening concert headlined by the Sam Roberts Band, alongside performances by Aysanabee, Lu Kala, and Big Sugar.

Fireworks to Cap Off the Night

The city’s iconic fireworks show will light up the night sky at 11 p.m. MT, launched from Stampede Park. While the Stampede Grounds themselves will not be open for viewing due to setup for the Calgary Stampede, The Confluence Park is recommended by the City of Calgary as the best vantage point.

Music, Culture, and Family Fun

Spruce Meadows in southwest Calgary will host a full day of events including a concert by country star Brett Kissel, horse races, and activities for children such as pony rides and arcade games. Meanwhile, Studio Bell, the King Eddy, and St. Patrick’s Island will offer music and interactive experiences throughout the day.

East Village will feature a bustling street fair with over 50 vendors, food trucks, and a beer garden from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Calgary Public Library’s Central branch will present storytime, Indigenous dance performances, and a special citizenship ceremony.

Getting Around the City on Canada Day

Calgary Transit will run on a Sunday schedule, with customer service centres and call centres closed. On-street ParkPlus zones and most Calgary Parking parkades will offer free parking, except for locations like Arts Commons.

Several road closures in East Village will be in effect from 6 a.m. to midnight to accommodate event setups and foot traffic. Commuters are encouraged to plan ahead.

Holiday Closures and Adjusted Hours

While most cultural venues will be active, all city-operated pools, arenas, and fitness centres will remain closed. Leisure centres, animal services, and arts centres will also pause operations for the holiday, with all scheduled programming suspended for the day.

Celebrations Extend Beyond Calgary

Communities surrounding Calgary are hosting their own Canada Day festivities. Airdrie will hold a parade and fireworks; Okotoks will feature dance shows and a mobile obstacle course; Cochrane’s Mitford Park will offer family activities and music.

In the Rockies, Banff will celebrate with a farmers’ market, parade, and live performances, while Canmore’s festivities include a themed parade and a fun run hosted by the Nordic Ski Club.

Final Note:

From cultural appreciation to energetic performances and family zones, Calgary’s Canada Day 2025 promises something for everyone. With community spirit high and clear skies expected, July 1 is shaping up to be a day of national pride and unforgettable experiences.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Montana’s BBQ & Bar Unveils New Ready-to-Eat BBQ Line

Montana’s BBQ & Bar Brings Smoky Flavors to Grocery Shelves

Craving that backyard BBQ taste without firing up the grill? Montana’s BBQ & Bar has you covered! The beloved Canadian restaurant chain just rolled out a brand-new line of ready-to-eat BBQ products, making it easier than ever to enjoy smoky, hearty meals at home.

Four Mouthwatering New Products

Montana’s new grocery lineup features four delicious options designed to satisfy every BBQ lover’s cravings:

  • Chipotle Honey Ribs: Sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of heat.

  • Swiss Cheese and Onion Burgers: Juicy burgers loaded with melty Swiss and savory onions.

  • Pulled Pork in Texas BBQ Sauce: Tender pork smothered in a tangy, bold sauce.

  • Chicken and Vegetables in Spicy Salsa: A zesty, protein-packed meal with a kick.

Bringing Canadian Comfort Home

For 30 years, Montana’s has been a staple of Canadian dining, known for its hearty eats and warm hospitality. Now, you can bring that same comfort to your own table—no reservation required. Mark Sozanski, COO at Montana’s BBQ & Bar, shared, “With this new line of ready-to-eat products, we’re continuing our mission to nourish the soul with hearty eats and genuine hospitality—one guest, one family, and one community at a time.”

Innovation That Meets Today’s Needs

Montana’s understands that busy schedules shouldn’t mean sacrificing great flavor. By launching these convenient, ready-to-eat meals, the brand shows its commitment to innovation and to meeting the real needs of today’s consumers.

Ready for a Taste of BBQ Bliss?

Next time you’re at the grocery store, look for Montana’s new BBQ line and treat yourself to smoky, satisfying flavors—any night of the week!

Conagra, Nestle Drop Synthetic Dyes in U.S. Foods by 2026

Major Food Brands Go Dye-Free: Conagra and Nestle Lead the Way

Ready for a cleaner label on your favorite frozen meals and snacks? Two food industry giants, Conagra Brands and Nestle, are making big moves to remove synthetic dyes from their U.S. products, promising a future with more natural ingredients on your plate.

Conagra’s Bold Step Toward Cleaner Ingredients

Conagra Brands, known for household names like Birds Eye, Healthy Choice, and Marie Callender’s, has announced that all certified Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors will disappear from its U.S. frozen foods by the end of this year. That means by 2025, you can expect every frozen meal from Conagra to be completely free of synthetic dyes.

But that’s not all—Conagra is also phasing out FD&C colors from products sold to K-12 schools by the start of the 2026-2027 school year. By the end of 2027, the company plans to eliminate these dyes from its entire U.S. retail portfolio.

Tom McGough, executive vice president and chief operating officer, explained, “Our transition away from FD&C colours is just one aspect of our broader strategy to modernize our portfolio to align with consumer preferences.”

Nestle Follows Suit with a Clear Commitment

Nestle, another leader in the food and beverage world, is also going all in. By mid-2026, every product in its U.S. food and beverage lineup will be free from FD&C colors. From family meals to snacks and coffee, Nestle is making sure its products match what today’s shoppers want—cleaner, simpler ingredients.

Marty Thompson, CEO of Nestle USA, summed it up: “As consumers’ diverse dietary preferences and nutritional needs evolve, we evolve with them.”

Why This Matters for You

Consumers are asking for more transparency and healthier options, and these changes show that big brands are listening. Soon, you’ll have even more choices that fit your needs—without synthetic colors—whether you’re shopping for a quick dinner, a snack, or something for the kids’ lunchbox.

What’s Next?

With Conagra and Nestle leading the charge, expect other brands to follow. The future of food is looking brighter, cleaner, and more in tune with what people want on their plates.

Cleaner labels, more natural ingredients, and greater peace of mind—your grocery cart just got an upgrade!