Oh, Canada! The great white north is no slouch at getting the party started, and summer is the ideal time to experience some of the best, and most unique, celebrations. From iconic annual events that draw crowds and big-name performing artists from around the world to slightly wacky parties that appeal to the eccentric in all of us, there’s no shortage of entertainment options.
Calgary Stampede
You don’t have to be a cowboy to enjoy the 10-day July party known as the Calgary Stampede, but it helps. The Stamped is recognized as the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth – and for good reason. Since 1912, this western-themed event has grown to more than simply a rodeo and showcase for the cowboy lifestyle. One million people enjoy the variety of Stampede events annually in the culturally diverse and hospitable city of Calgary. There’s plenty of rodeo action with bull riding, barrel racing and roping, while city slickers can enjoy the midway, acrobatic acts, fireworks, and fill the concert venue to see great musical performances by favorite recording artists. The headline act for 2013 is country music superstar Tim McGraw.
Elvis Festival, Collingwood Ontario
Get all shook up at one of the zaniest events of the summer: the Collingwood Elvis Festival, a summer celebration of all things Elvis! To some, it’s very serious business with impersonators and tribute artists strolling around the town in full Elvis regalia. You’re likely to see young Elvis lookalikes with slicked hair and rubbery hips performing alongside versions of the older Elvis looking slightly bloated in a spangled jumpsuit! From July 25-28, the qualifying rounds lead up to the grand finale and selection of the Ultimate Elvis, with awesome street parties and continuous performances. In honor of the “king’s” love for his Cadillac, festival tradition includes the Cadillac Cruise and the classic car parade. You can even get in on the action with your own version of “Love Me Tender” or “Jailhouse Rock” during the Karaoke Pub Crawl.
Caribana, Toronto
Concerts, club events, music, cuisine, and culture are the draw at Toronto’s Caribana Festival, the largest North American party celebrating the bold Caribbean lifestyle. It’s all about pumping street parties and the signature parade where participants strut their stuff in elaborate costumes to the beat of calypso and reggae. Try the Wet Fete inside Crocbar, one of the trendiest local clubs, or mingle with the upscale on the Elite on the Water Cruise. Find casual fun geared for the young urban crowd at the Big People’s Fete with great sounds and dynamic performers presenting Hip hop, R&B, and Top 40. August 1-4, 2013.
World Championship Bathtub Race, Nanaimo, British Columbia
Get score some ulitimate bragging rights, check out this unique four-day marine festival that culminates in a grueling 36-mile bathtub race across the straits of Georgia to the finish line at Departure Bay. The festival events also include a sail-past parade, outdoor beer gardens…hence, the affectionate designation of Nanaimo as the “Hub, Tub and Pub City,” and Vancouver Island’s biggest summer fireworks display. This year’s festival takes place July 25-28.
Just for Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival
Back to picturesque Montreal this July for the Just for Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival…10 days that feature the world’s greatest comedians appearing at various indoor and outdoor venues, and a comedy film festival that has become the basis for an internationally-broadcast television show. Comics poke fun at traditions, customs and cultures in the Ethnic Shows, while romantically dysfunctional comedians offer their own crooked perspective on love, sex, and significant others during the Relationship Shows. Just for Laughs is a big stage for comedy’s brightest rising and established performers.
Edmonton International Fringe Festival
This ain’t just Shakespeare, folks… Theater-lovers can take in the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, one of the largest fringe festivals in the world, August 15-25…enjoying performances at a variety of venues: indoor and outdoor stages, on the street and in pubs and saloons. Street performers mingle with magicians and costumed actors as over 15,000 participants, including hundreds of international artists, celebrate this 10 day event with every imaginable type of theatrical presentation.
Country Fest, Dauphin Manitoba
Canada’s most revered and longest-running country music festival draws a passionate crowd and big-name acts. Taking place this year June 27-30, recording artists Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Dierks Bentley are the headline performers who will take center-stage at the beautiful outdoor venue. Camping facilities are on site, and other entertainment options include the Battle of the Bands, a talent contest, beach activities and competitions, and the popular Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament.
Antigonish Highland Games, Nova Scotia
This year’s Highland Games in Antigonish, July 7-14, mark the 150th Anniversary of a festival that has consistently been recognized as one of the best events in the country. The Antigonish Highland Games deliver on the promise of plenty of Scottish merriment with dancing, singing, great food and beverages, and the wildly popular Scottish Heavy Events, the ultimate test of strength and power. Spectators cheer the traditional caber toss, and are stirred by the performances of piping and drumming. The festival also features entertainment on the Ceildh stage, a Grand Street Parade, and music with a Celtic flair nightly under the stars.
Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede; Tye Carson
