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.
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
- 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.