Canadians are observing the nation’s 146th birthday at parties, backyard bar-b-ques and gala celebrations from coast to coast to coast and abroad.
Parliament Hill was a sea of red and white as participants waved the flag and sang the national anthem. Prime Minister Stephen Harper used his Canada Day Message to remind Canadians that it is cool to show your colours and cooler still to be Canadian. The Prime Minster said the spirit Calgarians and others across the country showed in helping their neighbours during the Alberta floods is what makes Canada the best country in the world. Harper gave his annual address at the foot of the Peace Tower, which he said has come to symbolize Canada’s values. He added the country is a bastion of freedom in an unfree world during a time when too many choose to hate. The Parliament Hill show featured performances by Carly Rae Jepsen, live coverage of celebrations in New York and London and an appearance by Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield.