Canada 150: Wrap-up events!

Event Calendar Highlights

Celebrate with us in December

Join us as we celebrate the end of an unforgettable chapter in our history! There will be lots of activities in Canada’s Capital Region throughout December, and skating events will be held in communities across the country.

DECEMBER 7–31: SKATING ON PARLIAMENT HILL

For the first time ever, thanks to the Ottawa International Hockey Festival, Canadians and visitors of all ages are invited to skate for free on Parliament Hill from December 7 to 31. Several sport and cultural activities will be held on the rink. Lace 'em up! The rink will officially open on December 7 at 9 a.m. To give as many people as possible an opportunity to skate, residents and visitors will be able to go online and book their free 45-minute skating time 48 hours in advance by visiting www.canada150rink.com.

DECEMBER 7–JANUARY 7: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ACROSS CANADA

Christmas Lights Across Canada invites Canadians to enjoy an exhilarating experience in a historic setting. On December 7, the illumination ceremony on Parliament Hill will dazzle people of all ages. After the ceremony, the magical Winter Lightscapes multimedia show will be projected onto the Parliament Buildings to keep the holiday spirit going. Come see the show and admire the hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights that will illuminate Canada’s Capital Region. The illumination ceremony will take place December 7 at 7 p.m. The multimedia show will be presented in loop every night from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. until January 7.

Manulife is the exclusive sponsor of Christmas Lights Across Canada.

DECEMBER 9–10: CANADA 150 SKATING DAY

On the weekend of December 9 and 10, come to Parliament Hill for free skating, figure skating demonstrations, and a festive rinkside atmosphere with live entertainment, cooking demonstrations and samples of Northern food.

DECEMBER 10: CANADA 150 SKATING DAY

In honour of Canada 150 Skating Day on Sunday, December 10, Canadians in hundreds of communities coast to coast to coast will come together in a very special way as they lace up their skates and enjoy some free skate time!

Rogers Communications is the official sponsor of Canada 150 Skating Day.

DECEMBER 13: SYMBOLS OF NUNAVUT ADDED TO THE CENTENNIAL FLAME

Gather round for the re-dedication of the Centennial Flame following the addition of the official symbols of Nunavut to the monument. Take a selfie (or a group shot!) beside this impressive monument, which will now include the symbols of all Canada’s provinces and territories from coast to coast to coast.

DECEMBER 14–17: THE 100^TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NHL

The Ottawa International Hockey Festival is hosting a special celebration to mark the 100^th anniversary of the National Hockey League (NHL). The festivities include free skating, entertainment and giant screens livestreaming the Ottawa Senators Old-Timers game. There will also be a girls’ hockey festival and a game between two Indigenous teams. Over the weekend of December 16 and 17, there will be plenty of activities for everyone. Individuals and families can enjoy Métis jigging with Ginny Gonneau, take hand drum lessons from Nunavut Siviniksavut in a teepee with Aboriginal Experiences, participate in sporting events, and see local buskers such as the Cowguys Hockey Circus Show. There will also be juggling, hockey sticks, circus stunts, interactive fun and even a hockey shootout.

DECEMBER 30–31 ON THE HILL

Parliament Hill will be buzzing with a host of activities for all ages and tastes on the weekend of December 30 and 31. Celebrate the joys of winter with family and friends as you enjoy live interactive entertainment presented by DJs, percussionists, dancers, stilt walkers, musicians and athletes. So join the party! The year 2017 will close on a high note as we ring in the New Year on Parliament Hill. Welcome 2018 under the stars, and marvel at breathtaking dance and skating performances.

DECEMBER 31 AT THE CANADIAN MUSEUM OF HISTORY

The Canadian Museum of History presents Nimidiwin, produced by the Ulnooweg Development Group. This free, family-friendly event will celebrate First Nations culture through dance, drum and song, and welcome the New Year in peace and friendship.

BEGINNING DECEMBER 1: SHARE YOUR FAVOURITE CANADA 150 MOMENT

Share your favourite Canada 150 photo or video with the hashtag, #150moment. Let’s keep the memory of this incredible year alive in the hearts of all Canadians, now and for years to come!

FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES, VISIT THE CANADA 150 WEBSITE.