For some, Canada Day is just another holiday. But for others, like Alex Zmushka, a Canadian citizen as of June 14, it has a little more significance.

Zmushka, along with his wife and children, arrived in Canada from Belarus in 2007.

This year, Zmushka and his family don’t have plans that differ from previous Canada Day celebrations.

Going to downtown and spending some time with family and close friends is what he has in store.

The celebrations may be the same, but they will feel different.

“Every year it’s amazing,” said Zmushka. “This year it’s going to be a little bit more special for us.”