Canada Day festivities announced. Here’s what to expect

Canada Day programming in the National Capital Region has been unveiled, with July 1st celebrations set across Ottawa and Gatineau.

From LeBreton Flats Park to Parliament Hill and Old Hull in Gatineau — the city will come alive with a variety of complimentary activities offered to the public.

“LeBreton Flats Park, the celebration hub, hosts the daytime ceremony, evening show, the Tim Hortons Canada Day fireworks, and many family-friendly activities,” Canadian Heritage said.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will set out on their Canada Day flypast over Ottawa, celebrating the Royal Canadian Air Forces’ (RCAF) 100th anniversary.

Around 1 p.m., spectators will witness one of Canada’s largest flypasts, with dozens of aircraft taking to the skies over Ottawa-Gatineau.

“Dozens of planes will travel over both LeBreton Flats Park and Parliament Hill with a 20-minute aerial display of amazing aircraft, complete with live commentary at both sites, at the end of the daytime ceremony,” said Canadian Heritage.

The Royal Canadian Air Force Centennial flypast schedule on Monday, July 1st is as follows:

• 1 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. at 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8
• 1 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Parliament Hill

The Canadian Armed Forces Parachute Team — the Skyhawks — are also set to make an appearance from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Parliament Hill. Details can be found on the Canada Day website.

Festivities will be offered from 9 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. at LeBreton Flats Park, the hub of July 1st celebrations.

In a news release from Canadian Heritage, the government agency said programming will include:

• Interactive activities until 7 p.m. for all ages, such as On the Dance Floor, Medicine Wheel bracelet making and an outdoor screening of short films;
• 12 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.: Daytime ceremony, which will highlight important anniversaries and themes while celebrating the diversity of our country;
• 1 p.m.: Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Centennial flypast;
• Starting at 7 p.m.: Canadian DJ Miss Shelton
• 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Canadian artists performing in the evening show; and
• 10 p.m. to 10:15 p.m: Tim Hortons Canada Day Fireworks at the end of the evening

Canadian artists — including Bedouin Soundclash and Marie-Mai — will take the stage at the Daytime Ceremony, along with Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Activities and shows will also be taking place in Old Hull, with melodies by the groups Dubmatique, Basia Bulat and Kallitechnis.

From 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Laval Street pedestrian precinct, there will be an event free of charge to the public — including games, face painting, and a DJ spinning tunes. Click here for more information.

“Whether with family or friends, take part in this free event that showcases our country’s diversity, music and culture,” wrote Canadian Heritage on its website.

For a full list of activities, visit the Canada Day website.