Toronto buzzes with action all year round, but on July 1 of every year, the city comes alive like no other place in the world. Besides the array of parades, festivities, fireworks, and musical performances, Canadians flock to outdoor parks and arenas to enjoy barbecues and other sporting events.
If you, like many, wanted to do something special this Canada Day, we handpicked a few ways to step out of the traditional and enjoy your day off ingeniously.
Celebrate at a Boat Party
One of the most unique ways to enjoy Canada Day this year might be closer than you think. Step out of the ordinary and join Toronto’s hottest boat party, replete with fireworks, skyline views, a live DJ, and rooftop dancing. The event hosted by Toronto Boat Parties promises an unforgettable night out and includes amenities like a fully licensed bar serving your favourite drinks all night. With a capacity of over 500 partygoers, the fun doesn’t stop there. Talented live DJs add tune to the night and spin the hottest tracks as you enjoy panoramic views of Toronto’s skyline from the boat’s two decks.
Immerse yourself in a Virtual Reality Adventure
Have you ever tried to do something out of the ordinary? If you did, the experience could leave an indelible mark on your memory. Levelup VR is Toronto’s premier destination for virtual reality arcades. It provides exciting experiences for both the young and old alike to immerse themselves in a journey from another world. Step into the world of zombies or hop on a futuristic car to enjoy a captivating ride like no other. You can also take an expedition to an enchanted land with realistic experiences and sound, thanks to the computer-generated world of VR, which allows you to interact with objects and navigate other surroundings as if you were physically there.
Join a Cultural Show
Toronto’s rich cultural heritage comes alive on Canada Day. Being a social and cultural melting pot for people from all corners of the globe, these cultural shows are a great way to showcase the city’s rich cultural mosaic. The Harbourfront Centre hosts various events, including a food marketplace, music and comedy shows. The range of family activities will also include a diverse lineup of free and ticketed programming, such as music, dance, and performances like La Bulle, along with concerts by artists like Tyler Shaw and Fefe Dobson.
Watch the Fireworks
One of the best ways to conclude the night this Canada Day is to watch a unique display of fireworks. Toronto has many locations to watch the colourful lights illuminating its glittering skyline. Grab a blanket and pick a cozy spot to get the excitement started. There are several locations hosting a unique display of fireworks; these include Canada’s Wonderland and Toronto’s Waterfront. Toronto’s Waterfront will host several fireworks displays synchronized with an all-Canadian music soundtrack.
Visit Fort York
If you feel particularly patriotic this season, you can spend the day in Fort York, the birthplace of urban Toronto. Fort York’s National Historic Site pays tribute to the British soldiers, First Nation warriors, and upper Canadians in their conquest to stand against the United States and prevent its mission of capturing Toronto in the War of 1812. Preserved as an archaeological park, the exhibit site includes a 2,900-square-foot gallery and a 480-square-foot vault or treasury displaying a wide range of artifacts.
So, there you have it, if you have no travel plans this Canada Day, Toronto might be the ideal spot to celebrate the country’s 158th birthday!
David Messiha | Staff Writer
