Toronto/CMEDIA: The National Flag of Canada Day was reportedly celebrated in Toronto today by Mayor Olivia Chow, Members of Toronto City Council joined by hundreds of Torontonians and Canadians from coast to coast to coast to marking the 60th anniversary of Canada’s flag .
“The Maple Leaf is a symbol of Canadian pride…Toronto is a global beacon of hope where diversity is our strength…come from different religions, cultures and backgrounds but Canadians have each other’s backs and are united by our love for our country. This National Flag Day, let’s come together to celebrate as proud Canadians,” said Olivia
After being raised first at the stroke of noon on February 15, 1965, the red-and-white maple leaf Canadian flag continues to serve as a symbol of unity and pride for Canadians, representing our shared values.
“The flag symbolizes Canada’s breathtaking beauty…exemplifies our dreams and sacrifices…is an invocation of pride for Canadians…to forge a nation with a unique identity worth embracing and celebrating…inspiration to those who come to our shores seeking a brighter tomorrow,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a statement today.
“On this National Flag of Canada Day, I invite Team Canada – all 41-million strong – to celebrate the promise of the maple leaf and to proudly wave our flag. Let’s keep writing Canada’s enduring story. Let’s make our country better and fairer, with unity, diversity, and prosperity. Let’s stand together, work together, and grow together, as the true north, strong and free,” said Trudeau.
An extra-large Canadian flag – measuring 15 feet by 30 feet –was raised by the City of Toronto on Nathan Phillips Square and featured a special rendition of the Canadian National Anthem and performance of “Welcome to the Rock” by the cast of the original Canadian theatre production of the multi-award-winning global sensation Come From Away, remarks by humourist and content creator Stewart Reynolds a.k.a. Brittlestar and Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, and spoken word poetry by Ontario’s first poet laureate, Randell Adjei.
After the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a skating party until 2 p.m. on the Nathan Phillips Square rink celebrating all things Canadiana, with DJ MelBoogie spinning an all-Canadian music playlist, as well as a maple leaf ice sculpture by sculptor Fred Marquina of Ice Culture, food trucks, free hot chocolate provided by the Box 12 Association volunteers who provide rehabilitation services to Toronto Fire Services, and maple leaf “swag” including miniature paper flags, Canada flag pins and temporary tattoos.
Red and white was worn by many attendees to show their Canadian pride.
In continuation of the celebration, The Toronto Sign will remain lit in red and white tonight.
