It may only come once a year, but Canada Day is one annual celebration Canadians go all out for– and for good reason too! We’ve got a lot to be proud of, from stunning natural landscapes and great local food, to hockey, maple syrup, a rich cultural history, and those oh-so-polite “sorry’s.” This year, why not let The Shipyards District help you get the party started with these ten uniquely Canadian ways to salute the motherland?
View this post on Instagram
We’ll go ahead and kick things off with an obvious one: the gravy-drenched, cheese-curd-topped food of a nation– poutine. When it comes to doing this dish right, however, there may be no worthier stop than Raglan’s, who boasts not one, but five different variations of poutine to choose from! Get yours classic style, smother it in pulled pork or ancho chicken, and even indulge a-la-vegan with 2 meatless options.
We called ahead just to confirm, and rest assured that Olde World Confections will be trotting out their homemade maple and maple nut fudge just in time for July 1 festivities. Be sure to pop by to pick up a box (or several), and scoop up some of their maple hard candies and maple taffy while you’re at it too, because nothing says Canada like a maple-flavoured sweet treat.
Did you know how many amazing inventions, technological innovations, and one-of-a-kind works of art were first dreamed up right here on our own home dirt? Head over to MONOVA from June 30 through July 2 to take part in their Canada Day Inventors Scavenger Hunt where you’ll get to seek out several significant contributions that Canadian inventors have made through the years. While you’re there, you’ll also want to visit their exhibits showcasing the historical heritage and works of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. After that, if you’ve caught the creative bug, simply take the short walk to the Inuit Gallery where you can feast your eyes on impressive art, handmade jewellery and sculpture work of master Inuit, Northwest Coast First Nations, and other Indigenous artists. Be sure to visit their gift shop on the way out too, where you can purchase a piece of these exquisite works to take home.
One way to flaunt your Canadian AND distinctly Vancouver pride is by indulging in the decadent delight we all know and love. Here in The Shipyards District, we love to put our own spin on a classic, and that’s why we especially love the Nanaimo Bars at Buddha-Full Provisions. Not only are they melt-in-your-mouth delicious, but they also happen to be entirely plant-based too, and you know what that means: a little less guilt is a license to get 2!
Bonus Challenge: Calling all sweet tooth sleuths! If you find a beaver tail, butter tart, or Nanamio bar at any of our beloved shops or restaurants in The Shipyards District, be sure to snap a pic and tag us on Instagram to spread the word on those sweet Canadian finds too!
View this post on Instagram
We love Tim Horton’s as much as the next maple leaf flag lover, but in honour of our extra special day of celebration, might we suggest you treat yourself to a double-double that goes the extra mile while you support the small businesses in your community? Shipyards Coffee is the place to be for those 2 shots of cream and two shots of sugar in your brew, and we promise– you won’t be disappointed.
View this post on Instagram
If it sounds like a stereotype, we don’t care– a flannel shirt is always a good idea, and a great way to show some Canadian pride in style! Seek out one for yourself, or a few to gift to your friends at Secret Attic Vintage, where upcycled style is always in fashion. Another good bet for women’s shirts specifically might be Unity Clothing where you’re also sure to find some great summertime looks for a day of July 1 fun in the neighbourhood.
Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned BBQ with the ones you love (and maybe even some new friends who wander your way to get in on those tempting smells)? If you’re looking to celebrate Canada Day 2023 with grilled meats and comfort food, head over to Sharky’s Chophouse in the Lonsdale Quay Market. You’ll find grass-fed steaks and other tasty cuts, in addition to some pre-packaged sides to die for. You can even book them to cater your party if you want all the flavours, but none of the dishes.
View this post on Instagram
While there are so many ways to toast the country you love this July 1, we always recommend some craft beer from Streetcar Brewing to get the job done right. After all, we Canadians love a good craft beer, and also happen to make some of the best stuff around, so stop over to the patio at Streetcar Brewing for a flight, or pre-order some of their custom cans to personalize your party this year!
One solid reason to get out and about in The Shipyards District on Canada Day is the full day of family activities, booths, food trucks and beer gardens that will be going on all over our docks, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lions Gate. Spanning through The Shipyard’s District this family-friendly event from 11:30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. is one you won’t want to miss.
Maybe your idea of showing a little national pride is something that involves the great outdoors, and spending time in the unmatched natural beauty that makes up our home. If that’s the case, we encourage you to load up the bike, or rent one at Reckless Shipyards, and hit the Spirit Trail. If you opt to make a full day of it, you can also pick up some mouth-watering Meat at O-Neal’s sandwiches for the road; we love their Cache Creek braised beef brisket sandwich, or the Fraser Valley pork loin sandwich for a little extra local meat love.
However you choose to spend your Canada Day this year, we wish you and your nearest and dearest a fun-filled celebration to remember. Remember to be safe, stay hydrated, and above all, have an amazing day!
