Between the recent discoveries of mass graves at residential schools across Canada, and the tail end of public health restrictions due to the pandemic, we have a feeling that Canada Day in Vancouver this year is going to be unlike previous ones. While we love our country, we recognize the incredibly difficult revelations that are now coming out, as well as our federal government’s own recognition of genocide in this country.
In light of this, we’ve adjusted our recommendations for things to do this Thursday accordingly.
Here are 7 things to do around Vancouver this Canada Day.
Support and learn about Indigenous communities nationwide
From reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to support local Indigenous-owned businesses, there are tons of ways to support and educate yourself on various Indigenous communities in Canada. Personally, this is our top pick for this Canada Day, given how the past few weeks/years/decades/centuries have gone.
Where: Click the link above for more info
Watch the #CanadaTogether broadcast
Canada Place is usually the place to be in the city on Canada Day. This year they’ve opted for an hour-long broadcast in partnership with Global TV. And, in light of the recent discoveries in Kamloops and across the country, they’ve significantly altered the lineup to give priority to Indigenous speakers like Chief Dr. Robert Joseph of Reconciliation Canada.
Where: Online and on TV
Head to the Vancouver Maritime Museum
As a special treat this year, the Vancouver Maritime Museum is offering free admission for Canada Day! What’s more, they’ve also got a new exhibition called Canoe Cultures: Building a Legacy, which looks at the history of Indigenous racing canoes and current efforts to keep that legacy alive.
Where: 1905 Ogden Avenue
Or the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
While there’s no free admission (bummer), we think a trip to the Bill Reid Gallery is a great option for Canada Day this year. There are currently two exhibitions on view- a retrospective of Bill Reid’s own work, and a group show featuring contemporary Indigenous female artists.
Where: 639 Hornby Street
Cost: $13 for GA
Reflect while doing some sightseeing
Vancouver is without a doubt one of the prettiest cities in North America, and there are tons of sightseeing spots around the city to take it all in. Since a major theme for this year is ‘reflection’, we encourage you to head out to one of those spots and think about what Canada means, and who it’s for.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
See what Indigenous Tourism BC has to offer
We consider ourselves lucky that an organization like Indigenous Tourism BC exists. Representing over 200 Indigenous communities in the province, this site offers everything from places to stay to virtual events to things to do. With everything from winery tours to whale watching trips, this site offers the very best of the province.
Where: Click the link above for more info
Enjoy an amazing meal
Nothing’s easier than ordering a ton of food and having family or friends over for a nice meal on a hot day. On Canada Day, we think you should support local Indigenous-owned restaurants. Our top pick is Salmon n’ Bannock, which has appetizers, mains and sides just waiting for you to enjoy them.
Where: 7-1128 West Broadway
Options: Dine-in, takeout and delivery available
Alright folks, that’s our roundup of some amazing things to do in Vancouver this Canada Day! We hope you of these options looks like it could be right up your alley.
