You can feel it in the air – July 1st is going to be different than those before – and it should. This year, the event arrives on the back of controversy and heartbreak but as it stands, the statutory holiday is still written into our calendars with many of you having been given the day off.
Whether you choose to take this time to reflect, educate yourselves and make a difference or have decided to celebrate the future of this country – one of correction and widespread acknowledgment – here are 10 things to do this year on Canada Day in Calgary.
WALK-IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY
This week, mask up, wear orange, tie your shoes and march with Idle No More, an indigenous female-led organization that calls for mutual respect and imminent change. This peaceful protest will be socially distanced and will be held in hopes of getting the government’s attention on a variety of key issues – all of which are outlined at the link above.
HAVE A DRINK & ENJOY THE SUN IN ONE OF YYC’S PARKS
This week on July 1st, soak up the sun by booking one of Calgary’s picnic tables and enjoy a European-style drink or two as part of a new pilot program encouraging people to get out and stay safe this season.
CHECK OUT ONE OF ALBERTA’S MOST REFRESHING SWIMMING HOLES
Summer is here and so is a wicked heatwave. This week, grab your swim trunks, your flip flops and check out one of the many refreshing swimming holes near Calgary (linked above). Please be safe and stay hydrated, folks. it’s going to be a spicy one.
DONATE TO THE FRIENDSHIP CENTRE OF CALGARY
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This week, sign up to volunteer with or donate to the Calgary Friendship Centre – an organization committed to empowering indigenous youth and reconnecting them with their culture through various programs, services and resources.
HAVE A PICNIC IN THE PARK
Looking for a way to enjoy the sun and indulge in a bite on your day off? It’s picnic season in, Calgary and for your convenience, we’ve put together a list of the city’s best gardens! Pack up a picnic basket full of goodies, hit the link above, and have a bite to eat in one of Calgary’s most beautiful gardens.
COOL OFF IN THE BOW
Another great way to cool off this Thursday? Well by floating the Bow, of course! This week, grab your pals, a dingy, and some snacks then hit Calgary’s winding river. Kick back and enjoy the warmth on your face and the water on your toes on an obligatory YYC adventure.
SUPPORT INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES
This Thursday, order from and indigenous-owned restaurant or clothing store or spread the word about a local business and show your support for Calgary’s talented entrepreneurs. Not sure where to shop? The government of Canada actually has an official business directory here.
WATCH AN EXPLOSIVE FIREWORKS DISPLAY
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With restrictions having been lifted just in time for July 1st, many are wondering what public events the city has planned. This year, Calgarians can check out the fireworks (in a different location), and are encouraged to pick up one of 10,000 FREE at-home kits. For more information check out the link above!
When: Thursday, July 1st
Where: Tom Campbell Hill – 25 St Georges Dr. NE, Calgary, AB
Time: 11 pm
HIT ONE OF CALGARY’S OUTDOOR POOLS
With temperatures well into the 30s, city-slickers deserve many an option to beat the heat. Of course, because we don’t think we’ll all be able to fit comfortably into the Bow., we’ve put together a list of the many spray parks, outdoor or wading outdoor pools throughout Calgary! Check them out, friends.
EDUCATE YOURSELF ABOUT INDIGENOUS HISTORY
From exchange relationships to residential schools, the University of Alberta’s 12-lesson course is incredibly informative and extremely effective. This particular class was actually endorced by Dan Levy of Schitt’s Creek, is available online and can be taught in a variety of different languages at your own pace. Enroll now!
There you have it. Whatever you choose to do this Canada Day in Calgary, please be kind and respect one another. Have an amazing week!
