Oh Canada,
Celebrating its existence with some combination of food, drinks, music, parades, parties, and of course fireworks for the past 146 years – and let's not lie, it's been a blast.
But this past Canada Day, the celebrations seemed a little off.
The music was great. Food and drinks were widely available. Parades passed through communities. The parties were happening. Then there were the fireworks – which in Bonnyville actually went past midnight and into July 2 – a day many would be returning to their regular work schedule.
For those that stayed for the fireworks, it was certainly a show that was appreciated. But a noticeably large group of those celebrating had packed up their things and left before the fireworks even got underway, as it was perhaps too late for a family with children or an individual working early the next day.
If celebrating is what we are all out there to do, why not start the fireworks and late-night festivities the night before, as a way to kick off the special day? Fireworks could start just before midnight (like they did this year) and roll right into the early hours of July 1st, a day many Canadians have off from work and set out to celebrate the country they live in.
The idea brings to mind New Year's celebrations. The real parties happen the night before on Dec. 31, with the clock striking midnight as a sign that the New Year is upon us and in celebration, partying continues into the wee morning hours of Jan. 1.
Most people are granted or take New Year's Day off from work in consideration of the late-night celebrating they are likely to do the night before.
So, why not plan the same thing for Canada Day celebrations?
Party the night before on June 30, setting off fireworks at midnight, ringing in another year for the country of Canada, and then go on to take part in the traditional breakfasts, parades and parties starting later that morning on July 1.
Only a little maple syrup on top could make it a better day to celebrate.
