When youโve got a big birthday milestone approaching, itโs fun to extend the celebration for as long as possible. Thatโs just what communities around Canada are doing for the countryโs 150th, including Burlington and Oakville. Find out what each community has planned to mark Canadaโs sesquicentennial this year.ย
BURLINGTON
Tourism Burlington has launched a new marketing campaign called Come Home 2 Burlington, which encourages former Burlingtonians to rediscover the city through its events, restaurants, shopping and attractions. Residents are also asked to be #HometownProud ambassadors by inviting family and friends to visit during 2017.
Famous Burlingtonians will share their memories all year about why theyโre #HometownProud. Check out a few early entries on Tourism Burlingtonโs website from Olympian, Mark Oldershaw and Walk Off The Earth band member, Mike Taylor.
The Burlington Art Gallery has plans to welcome visitors with various art events and projects to mark the occasion, including a sesquicentennial quilt project.
For some simple ideas on how to experience the city, Tourism Burlington has listed 150 activities and events online.
OAKVILLE
Just how was the Centennial celebrated 50 years ago in Oakville?ย Find out at the Oakville Museum at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centreโs exhibit, โHOME and Native Land: Being Canadianโ. The exhibit is currently open and runs until January 2018. On display are artifacts, photographs and interviews of current Oakville residents: 150 voices telling the Townโs story, representing different cultures and traditions from around the world.
Peek inside early immigrant life 150 years ago at the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate. โFrom Far and Wide: Tales from a Suitcaseโ opens on July 1.
The Canada 150 Mosaic Mural Project commemorates Canadaโs 150th Anniversary by bringing together 150 communities and thousands of participants to create community murals that visually reflect the history and culture of Canada. Oakvilleโs community mural is now on exhibit at River Oaks Community Centre.
These are just a few highlights of whatโs happening. Be sure to go online to check for updates and find out more ways to explore and enjoy where we live.
by Becky Dumais
Local Links
City of Burlington
burlington.ca/canada150
Tourism Burlington
tourismburlington.com
Town of Oakville
oakville.ca/culturerec/canada-150