Canada Day in the nation’s capital after two years that saw Canadians marking the country’s birthday at home, or virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Tensions were high amid a significant police presence as thousands gathered in the streets of downtown Ottawa where residents continue to grapple with what police have acknowledged is “lingering trauma” from the convoy blockade earlier this year.
As it happened: Canada Day celebrations, protests held across the country In normal years, Canada Day festivities draw thousands to the lawns and streets around Parliament Hill for concerts, fireworks and parties.
COVID-19 forced celebrations to be held virtually in 2020 and 2021.Instead, official celebrations took place at LeBreton Flats, the festival grounds roughly a 20-minute walk west of Parliament Hill, as the parliamentary precinct battens down.People were still encouraged to come to the Hill, even though the majority of events were elsewhere.
However, there were long lineups to get in, with security screenings. Notably absent around the Canada Day stage, however, were any vocal protesters.