Canada Together in Vancouver July 1st at Canada Place
byThe Vancouver Fraser Port Authority today announced its plans for a return to an in-person event for July 1 at Canada Place called Canada Together. The event will include a lineup of entertainment and activities with some significant changes designed to reimagine celebrations in the spirit of reconciliation.
Canada Together in Vancouver July 1st at Canada Place
2022 marks the 36th annual event at Canada Place at the Port of Vancouver, which has historically been the largest Canada Day celebration outside Ottawa. It also marks the beginning of a new direction for the event.
Now named Canada Together, the event has been planned collaboratively with representatives from the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. From programming to the name and theme itself, the details of the day were carefully considered to create a welcoming experience for all people who live in this country.
The theme this year is “Weaving together the fabric of a nation,” chosen to honour Canada’s diversity and set an intention for the day to gather, celebrate, learn, and share. Weaving is a common activity across many cultures and is a metaphor for the way the beauty, strength, and wisdom from the past can combine through multiple perspectives to create something meaningful for today and tomorrow.
“We are pleased to see the event taking a new direction, and to be collaborating with the port authority to help guide the direction and future of this gathering,” said Chief Wayne Sparrow, Musqueam Indian Band. “We are proud to build on the inclusion of the culture and history of the three nations on whose traditional territory the event takes place.”
The gathering will feature a full day of festivities, great food, family fun, and performances. At 11:00am, all zones and exhibits, including the Main Stage, will open with great entertainment and activities for guests of all ages. The iconic waterfront venue covers five city blocks and will include the outdoor spaces at Canada Place, Jack Poole Plaza and surrounding city streets. No programming will take place indoors this year.
“After a long hiatus, the Squamish Nation is excited to help plan out this in-person event again for Canada Day,” said Sxwíxwtn (Wilson Williams), Councillor and spokesperson for Squamish Nation. “Attendees will learn about the importance of advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples across this country, learn about different Indigenous languages and cultures and enjoy spectacular performances by Coast Salish drummers and singers. We hope to see you there on July 1.”
Performances include: Johnny Reid, The Boom Booms, Omega Mighty, Bitterly Divine, Tsatsu Stalqyu (Coastal Wolf Pack), Spakwus Slolem (Eagle Song Dancers) with the West Vancouver Youth Orchestra, and Carsen Grey.
Chief Dr. Robert Joseph will share a special message on behalf of Reconciliation Canada.
“Canada Day and what it means to be Canadian has taken on a new meaning in the last year,” says Tsleil-Waututh Nation Chief Jen Thomas. “Working alongside our relatives at Musqueam and Squamish, as well as the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, we look forward to working together on creating an inclusive event that showcases Tsleil-Waututh and Coast Salish history, culture, and values. We look forward to celebrating and sharing a piece of our community with the general public on July 1st, 2022.”
Featured Entertainment Zones
World Zone (North Point of Canada Place): A gathering of performances, exhibits, and demonstrations from different cultures around the world. Featuring performances from Aché Brasil and Lazy Syrup Orchestra featuring Ashleigh Ball.
Kids’ Zone (Jack Poole Plaza): Family friendly kids’ entertainers and activities, including the Rock N’ Beau Dance Party, the annual mascot dance-off, and performances from Mom Bop, Will’s Jams, and more.
Canadian Forces Zone (Harbour Green Park): Interactive displays and exhibits that recognize Canada’s Army, Navy, and Air Force.
View the full entertainment schedule here.
Food and Fireworks Update
Experience the multi-cultural tastes of Canada with a variety of food trucks along Canada Place Way.
After careful consideration, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority has made the decision not to bring back the evening fireworks display for July 1 at Canada Place, due to rising costs for events, safety, and security. Instead, resources are being redirected into the daytime event.
Volunteer Call Out
Every year, more than 200 volunteers help welcome over 200,000 guests who take part in the free event activities organized around Canada Place on July 1. View the list of opportunities online here.
Follow Canada Place on Facebook for more updates.
