OTTAWA, June 21, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today marks the beginning of Celebrate Canada, an 11-day period of festivities taking place across Canada from June 21 to July 1. As we count down to Canada Day, I encourage Canadians to take part in activities in their communities, learn more about our history, and celebrate our rich and diverse heritage.
Celebrate Canada provides an excellent opportunity to highlight important dates from our country's distinct history, including National Aboriginal Day on June 21, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27 and Canada Day on July 1.
From the War of 1812, which laid the foundation for Confederation and the cornerstones of many of our political institutions, to the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne, Canadians have a wealth of history and culture to celebrate and take pride in this year. I encourage all Canadians to start thinking of how they would like to celebrate our heritage, values, and bright future in 2017 and to begin planning for Canada's 150th anniversary.
On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I invite Canadians to join me in celebrating Canada's distinct cultural history and taking pride in 145 years of being Canadian.
