Canada Day is here and in true 2020 style, this year’s holiday falls awkwardly on a Wednesday. Even though the usual group gatherings are still mostly out of the question while we continue to physically distance because of the pandemic, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy a festive, midweek Canada Day .Here are some ideas to get you started.
Go for a hike
One of the things that makes this country so incredible is the stunning natural landscape in each province. Why not celebrate Canada by enjoying the best of our beautiful outdoor spaces? There's a good selection of nature trails, provincial parks and
national parks to choose from across the country so put on some sunscreen, fill up your water bottle, pack a picnic lunch and go--it’s a great way to spend a day with your family or even a small group of friends, if you’re able to maintain a safe distance.
Have a backyard BBQ
While Canadians in many provinces are still being urged not to gather in large groups due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, you may have formed a
social bubble or be able to host a small, physically distanced gathering. Canada Day is the perfect excuse to get a select group of less than 10 friends and family together to enjoy an afternoon of sun, fun and
delicious food on the BBQ. You can set up a sprinkler for kids, hand out festive red popsicles to help beat the heat and play some classic Canadian tunes on an outdoor speaker. Speaking of which...
Make a Canadian playlist
Canada has some amazing musical talent, from standbys like The Tragically Hip, Sloan, Alanis Morrissette and Bryan Adams to newer acts like Arkells, City and Colour, Drake, Shawn Mendes,
Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez, Justin Bieber and The Weeknd. Of course bands like Arcade Fire and Metric never get old but consider letting multiple people play DJ so you get exposed to new artists and different genres. Hosting an older crowd or looking for a throwback playlist? Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell and Neil Young are all Canadian. Oh and yes, you are legally obligated to play "
Patio Lanterns" at least once at every Canada Day BBQ if you're over the age of 35.[video_embed id='1986775']RELATED: How Canada Day will be celebrated differently across the country[/video_embed]
Raise a glass of local brew
Canada has some spectacular wine counties but the craft beer is just as impressive. If you’re in Ontario, try something by one of the many
Ontario breweries. There are also plenty of
local cideries—check out what’s available in your region and consider raising a cold, locally-brewed glass this Canada Day if that's your thing or enjoy a local, non-alcoholic local cider or beer if you're not one to imbibe.
Join a virtual celebration
There won't be those classic large firework displays this year but there are several virtual events being held with music, interactive activities and, yes, even some
virtual fireworks. You can join Canadians across the country in virtual celebrations designed to entertain us in a truly unique and challenging year. Check out
details on both daytime and evening events streaming online that might be a fit for you and yours. Stay safe, stay healthy and happy Canada Day![video_embed id='1986802']RELATED: Serena Ryder will perform first single from her new album at the Canada Day virtual show[/video_embed]
Muslim women holds a Canadian flag during the multicultural Canada Day celebration in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on July 01, 2019. The 152nd anniversary of Canada (the 152nd anniversary of Confederation) was celebrated with much pomp across the country. (Photo by Creative Touch Imaging Ltd./NurPhoto via Getty Images)
