Canada Day 2026 is being celebrated across the Maritimes with a range of events, including parades, fireworks, and community gatherings. In Halifax, a large crowd is expected on the waterfront for festivities, echoing last year's celebrations where revellers carried Canada flags through the crowd.
Prime Minister's Canada Day Address
Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a Canada Day address emphasizing national unity, calling the country's foundation 'unshakeable.' He highlighted the importance of coming together despite regional differences and emerging separatist movements. Carney also discussed 'serious immediate priorities' with Inuit leaders, focusing on Indigenous collaboration.
Heat Warning and Safety Measures
An extreme heat warning is in effect for Ottawa on Canada Day, with temperatures expected to soar. Cooling centres are opening across the region to help residents cope. In Ontario, a meteorologist noted that duration, not intensity, is the main danger in the latest heat wave. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor exposure.
Police Warn of 'Work Task' Scam
Police have issued a warning about a 'work task' scheme where victims are allegedly required to send money to keep working. This scam has been reported in multiple regions. Authorities urge the public to verify any job offers that request upfront payments.
Canada Day Openings and Closings
In Ottawa, many government offices, banks, and postal services are closed for Canada Day. However, select attractions and recreational facilities remain open. Similar schedules apply across the Maritimes, with most retail stores operating on holiday hours.
Community Stories and Events
A retired man in Nova Scotia is selling birdhouses from his garage under an 'open-nest policy,' gaining local attention. In Saskatchewan, a service dog received a diploma alongside a high school graduate, highlighting the bond between animals and students. Meanwhile, a Saskatoon man was arrested for a bear spray incident on a bus.
Legal and Crime News
A New Brunswick man died in prison two weeks after being sentenced for possessing child sexual abuse material. In Nova Scotia, teens charged with sexual assault in a hockey hazing case will go to trial in February. A Manitoba teen accused of planning school attacks with a Nova Scotia youth was denied bail.
Transportation and Infrastructure
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian state TV. In Canada, a cyclist was found deceased on the side of a road near Hamilton, Ontario, prompting a police investigation. A man killed in a Toronto crash 38 years ago was identified as a missing London, Ontario man.
Business and Economy
Victor Dodig succeeded Darren Entwistle as Telus CEO after more than 25 years at the helm. A Trump filing showed he took in about US$1.2 billion from crypto businesses last year. The World Bank will phase out lending to China by 2031, signaling a shift in global economic priorities.
Health and Science
Self-isolation ended for travellers exposed to a hantavirus-stricken cruise ship. The U.S. FDA panel on peptides will include experts who promote unproven chemicals favoured by RFK Jr. Nutrition apps can help build healthy habits, but their gaming features carry risks for some users.
Entertainment and Sports
Canada will compete at Eurovision in 2027. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are expected to marry at Madison Square Garden this week, sources say. In sports, NHL free agency began, and Canada's historic World Cup run is boosting Vancouver restaurants' business. Serena Williams 'enjoyed the moment' despite a 3-set loss at Wimbledon in her comeback at age 44.
