Although July 1 falls on a Tuesday this year, Vancouver hasn’t held back in the slightest for their to Canada Day celebrations. In additional to the annual parade and fireworks display, there are a whole flurry of patriotic events where you can proudly sport your red and white. Whether you’re looking to join the crowds or simply enjoy the day, I think there is something for everyone in the city. Here are our Top 5 picks for 5 different reasons:
1) If you’d like to be a part of the action (aka. you’d like to be part of the crowd!)
Canada Day at Canada Place will be the hub of Vancouver’s July 1 celebration. With a full-day itinerary of live concerts, multicultural performances, and interactive stations, there will be no shortage of things to do at Vancouver’s waterfront!
2) If you’re bringing the family…
Hooray for statutory holidays! If you’re spending the day with the family, there’s no better place for the occasion than Granville Island. Even we’ve taken the day off from our Granville Island Market Tour to enjoy the festivities! Granville Island guarantees the Canada Day classics like face-painting, buskers and mini flags for all, but they also have some really cool additions that I’m really excited for! See: Lobster Boil, Little Paws Agility Show, Dye Your Own Yarn Workshop. And…we’ve heard that Lee’s Donuts will have special Canada Day donut on the menu!!
3) If you’re looking for a stress-free event…
We’re all familiar with the absurd phenomenon where holidays become more stressful than relaxing. It’s a day-off for goodness, sake! If you’re looking for a stress-free, kick-back kind of party, The Dockside Restaurant at the Granville Island Hotel is the place to be. From 7:30am – 10:00am they’re starting the day right with a good ol’ pancake breakfast! It’s $10 for adults, $5 for kids and you don’t need a reservation. The feasting continues on their outdoor patio (weather permitting) with a “Great Canadian BBQ” from 11am-7pm. It’s $29 and the menu is looking fine! If you haven’t been to the Dockside patio before, it’s one of the best kept secrets in Vancouver. Tucked in the corner of Granville Island, you’ll discover an absolutely breathtaking view of False Creek and Vancouver’s skyline.
4) If you’re on a budget…
Yup. Some holidays fill your piggy banks, but this just isn’t one of them. If you’re on a budget, there will still be lots to see in the heart of downtown at Robson Square. July 1 marks the opening of their outdoor seating installation, known as Urban Reef. From what could be gleaned from the renderings, it looks like a great place to lounge, enjoy the sun, and snap some photos! And, if it strikes your fancy Urban Reef will also be a convenient place to enjoy your haul from some Vancouver’s best food trucks!
5) If you’re throwing your own bash…
Kudos to you for your Canadian hospitality. If you’re throwing your own bash, check out our Oh Canada Pinterest board for inspiration! You might be surprised by how many things can be done with a bit of red and white…we did a bit of experimenting ourselves and came up with this homemade, coconut-strawberry ice cream! Don’t let the plastic case fool you – these juicy gems were handpicked!
Whatever the day brings you, have a Happy Canada Day! Enjoy your friends, family and the wonderful country we are blessed to call home!
