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Large gatherings and major celebrations are cancelled for Canada's 153rd birthday in light of the coronavirus pandemic. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)
153RD BIRTHDAY

No fireworks, no problem: 5 physically distant Canada Day celebration hotspots

Jul 1, 2020 | 7:20 AM

NANAIMO — Celebrations for Canada’s birthday will look a lot different in 2020.

The on-going COVID-19 pandemic cancelled traditional fireworks and celebrations at Maffeo Sutton Park.

In lieu of a mass gathering, NanaimoNewsNOW is recommending a handful of favourite spots to celebrate Canada’s 153rd birthday with your small social bubble.

  1. Maffeo Sutton Park
    Typically the host location for Canada Day celebrations in Nanaimo, Maffeo Sutton Park is still a perfect place to responsibly mix and mingle. A new accessible playground provides plenty to do for the kids while the park and surrounding walking paths allow space to effectively distance from others.
  2. Beban Park
    While the pool and indoor recreation facilities remain closed due to COVID-19, one of the city’s largest playgrounds is a popular spot. Surrounding trails and the spacious sports fields allow for a wide range of activities.
  3. Pipers Lagoon/Neck Point
    Two of Nanaimo’s best seaside spots offer plenty of space to spread out from others not in your social bubble. Finding a corner to call your own shouldn’t be a major hassle.
  4. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
    A short drive to Parksville for one of the best beaches on Vancouver Island. The tides will be favourable with the water its furthest out at 9:30 a.m. and gradually making its way in throughout the day.

    Sun bathing, swimming, sand castle making, kite flying are all great options for a Canada Day at the beach

  5. Sugarloaf Mountain
    Offering sweeping views of Departure Bay, this favourite spot is for those looking for a little bit of a challenge without venturing out of the city. The 300m loop atop the mountain is an easy trek for rookie and pro hikers alike.