Happy Canada Day!

© Joan Anderson

Yesterday was party time in Ottawa. This little one had a super view of the celebrations taking place at Parliament Hill from atop Dad's shoulders.

I headed out about 10:00 am with my camera to checked out the sites at Majors Hill Park, Rideau Street and Parliament Hill. The crowds where huge, the talent was impressive, and the the masses were happy, well mannered, and full of pride in our great country.

From the time I hopped off the bus in the city centre, I experienced the generosity and power of advertising of some of the largest corporations in the area. First off the mark were some energy and high-tech companies who joined together and gave away thousands of T-shirts emblazoned with the Canadian flag and Canada Power... in both official languages of course. Next was the dairy industry and St. Alberts handing out free packs of cheese curds. Via Rail trumped them all by going green and giving away free maple trees. Mine is destined to become a Bonsai.

© Joan Anderson

After wandering the streets in search of the definitive Canada Day photo opp, I found myself at Majors Hill park listening to free concerts and noting the pride with which new Canadians from all nations were wearing red to celebrate the day.

The band shell had great entertainers from across the country, notably one talented group that called themselves Red Maple Song Circle.

© Joan Anderson

Taima from Nunavik, sang about her mother's recent passing, and Jay Knutson from BC sang of his Scottish ancestors putting down roots in Canada. Knutson's sense of humour was evident when he spoke of his ancestry. In addition to being part Norwegian, he is also of Scottish and Micmac descent... he calls himself a Mac Micmac.

It was a great day and all sorts came out to party. There were face painters, Snowbirds, smiling ladies, and the RCMP. And just in case you were wondering, Elvis was there too, wearing nothing but the Canadian Flag. Oh yes... what would a party be without a couple of British acrobats wearing nothing but their national flag! Hope you had a good one.

© Joan Anderson

© Joan Anderson