Huge crowds celebrate nation's anniversary in Canada

International Desk: Revellers, police and some protesters converged on Canada's national capital on Saturday for a party that has been years in the planning.

Canada marked its 150th anniversary as a country in towns, cities and at backyard barbecues nationwide.

But the biggest bash was at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, where thousands of people joined the celebrations.

Large crowds turned out in their droves - albeit huddled under umbrellas, trying to avoid the rain.

Some partygoers, like 24-year-old students Morgan Haines, Jon Salamati and Nima Sahebi, got to the hill before the sun had even risen.

Their early morning netted them a prime spot right next to the main stage, where they said they planned to stay until after the fireworks at midnight.

The three travelled from Vancouver, on Canada's west coast, to celebrate the day in the capital.

"One-fifty is only going to happen once," Mr Salamati said. "By the time we hit Canada 200, we might not be able to do this trip."

The celebrations included a concert by Canadian artists, a display from Canada's aerobatics squadron the Snowbirds, a citizenship ceremony for new Canadians, and a massive fireworks display.

Canadian theatre giants Cirque du Soleil performed, and Bono and The Edge from the rock band U2 serenaded the crowd with an acoustic set.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has made inclusiveness a political calling card, gave a speech celebrating that attribute.

"We don't care where you're from or what religion you practise, or whom you love - you are all welcome in Canada," he said to cheers from the crowd.

Mr Trudeau's speech was delivered in both English and French, a tradition in Canada, which recognises both as its official languages.

Source: Agencies


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