Kingston

The country’s first capital and home of Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, the Limestone City is bursting with history. Fort Henry, built for protection from the U.S. during the War of 1812, is a must-see, but the place to be on

July 1 will be Lake Ontario’s waterfront between Kingston and Bath, Ont., to witness a suspenseful re-enactment of the Flight of the Royal George.

Ottawa

Thousands of people are expected to flood Parliament Hill in the nation’s capital to celebrate Canada’s 145th birthday on July 1. A must-experience at least once in your life, the atmosphere can’t be beat as revellers break out their red and white best and show off their patriotic pride. Concerts by popular Canadian musicians, a traditional flag-raising ceremony and a spectacular fireworks display are among the festivities.

Your own backyard

You don’t have to go far to find pride in Canada on the nation’s birthday. Block parties typically break out in neighbourhoods across the country as everyone’s off work and in a celebratory mood. Hosting a red-and-white-themed barbecue, where everyone washes down their favourite foods with a few Canadian-brewed cold ones, is a great way to show your patriotism close to home.

Vancouver

Watching new Canadians take their citizenship oath is a moving experience and on July 1, a traditional ceremony will kick off the events at Canada Place. From street hockey and a lumberjack show to a penny party in which citizens are encouraged to donate the soon-to-be forgotten coins to charity, Vancouver will be bursting with Canuck pride.

Halifax

One minute there are Mounties marching and the next acrobats flying through the air. The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo runs July 1 to 8 at the city’s Metro Centre and people come from all over to witness the spectacle made up of military and civilian talent. This year’s theme touches on the RMS Titanic, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the War of 1812.