Head for the Hill

Canada Day in our nation’s capital: the party doesn’t get much bigger than that. But with small children in tow, bigger isn’t always better. Here’s how to circumvent the Canada Day zoo while still doin’ it up right.

The first thing you need to know about is Andrew Haydon Park. Canada Day in Ottawa is often a sunny scorcher, and the beauty of Andrew Haydon is that it’s also a water park—perfect for keeping the little ones cool while they play. There are barbeques and picnic tables, so bring a spread and settle in.

On July 1, the park will host the Canada Day Festival which claims to have “something for everyone”—midway rides and games, a mini-circus, a petting zoo, a car show, face painting, a live DJ, cultural events and, to top it all off, fireworks. Admission is free. If you live downtown and aren’t inclined to drive too far, the festival has a second location at Queen Juliana Park.

Most Ottawa museums will be open for Canada Day, many with special programming and free admission. East-enders can enjoy a picnic on the 25 hectares of the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, which will be organizing outdoor games and live music from Canada’s past.

If you’re not put off by the crowded downtown scene, this may be the best year to go—it seems Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip are coming, and will participate in ceremonies on Parliament Hill. The Canada Day Noon Show on the Hill is our downtown pick for families with older kids, since this is when you’ll catch the CF-18s and Snowbirds, with the added bonus of seeing the Barenaked Ladies take the stage.

Good to know:

• There will be Lost Children Services at Parliament Hill, Major’s Hill Park and Jacques-Cartier Park. Look for the teddy bear signs and register your kids when you arrive.
• Many streets near Parliament Hill, Jacques Cartier Park and Major’s Hill Park will be closed to traffic. OC Transpo will operate on a Sunday schedule.
• From 10 am to 6 pm, there will be free shuttle buses operating between Jacques-Cartier Park and Major’s Hill Park.
• Bring water bottles—you will be able to refill them at free water stations downtown.

Finally, where to watch the fireworks? You won’t want to subject small kids to the massive street party (read: drinking binge) that erupts when the fireworks end, so avoid Parliament Hill and Major’s Hill Park. But Jacques Cartier Park is often festive without being overwhelming, and The Canadian Museum of Civilization and Victoria Island are also top choices.

Happy 143rd, Canada!

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