Canada has so much to celebrate in its almost 153 years of history. That being said, in light of recent events, we at West Island News felt it especially important to acknowledge that our Canada Celebrations and community events will take place on traditional, ancestral, and unceded Indigenous land.
It is important to understand the extensive history that has led us all to reside on what we now call Canadian soil. We must continue to understand our place within our country's history. Colonialism is a current ongoing process, and we as a community must learn to be mindful and intentional in our community participation.
As you carry out your Canada Day celebrations, remember to be mindful of the uglier parts of our history, and acknowledge the communities who called this country home before it ever had a name.
More than 300 years of history in Dorval
This permanent exhibition, located at 1850 Chemin du Bord-du-Lac—Lakeshore “portrays the social and economic history of the City of Dorval, from New France to the present day.”
Showcased through 19th-century coach house stalls, a Hall of Honor, and a timeline enhanced by historical artifacts and various media stations, this exhibit tells you all about the historical events of the city of Dorval.
Visits must be made upon reservation by phone or by e-mail.
For more information, visit https://www.ville.dorval.qc.ca/
Rally in 10 Dollard-Des-Ormeaux city parks
This year, Dollard-Des-Ormeaux is taking you on a walk or bike ride through ten city parks. Find the blue tent at each park where you will be asked a series of questions. You and your family can also be entered into the gift-card draw by answering a minimum of 9 out of 30 questions correctly!
Show your Canada pride by getting dressed up or wearing Canada’s colors!
This event is exclusive to Dollard-Des-Ormeaux residents.
For more information, visit https://ville.ddo.qc.ca/en/events/canada-day/
Drive-in theatre in Pointe-Claire
Pointe-Claire has found yet another creative way to celebrate this Thursday, July 1. Pointe-Claire will host eight drive-in presentations of street performances and eight drive-in movie showings. The events have been adapted to allow as many residents as possible to take part in the festivities while respecting social distancing measures.
Due to limited spaces available and health guidelines put in place by the Quebec government, registration for the event is required. Participation is limited to one movie showing and one street performance for each family bubble (by address).
To register, visit https://www.pointe-claire.ca/en/quebecs-national-holiday-and-canada-day/
Become the parade in Pierrefonds-Roxboro
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced cities to re-think their annual Canada Day celebrations and Pierrefonds has quite literally taken the traditional parade format and flipped it on its head.
This year, instead of watching a parade from the side of the road, families can enjoy the festivities from the comfort of their vehicle or wagon. The parade, whose theme is "Tales Around the World: a journey into an enchanted universe for Canada Day" will include everything you love about parades: floats, dancers, mascots, music, and more. The only difference is you will watch the magic unfold in the comfort and safety of your family bubble.
If you managed to score one of the limited spots to this event, consider yourself lucky, as it sold out in under two days!
For more information, visit https://montreal.ca/en/
Celebrate in the Old Port of Montreal
Canada Day celebrations are in full swing this year in the Old Port of Montreal. Admission is free for the whole family and activities to include inflatable structures, workshops, tastings, fireworks, and live entertainment!
Make a day of it by stopping into a local café or ice cream shop. Walk along the cobblestone side streets and see all the hidden gems our beautiful city has to offer.
For more information, visit https://www.bonjourquebec.com/
What are you doing to celebrate Canada on July 1st? Let us know in the comments!
