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Park It this Summer

Join thousands in celebrating Canada's Parks & Historic Sites for Parks Day 2008

The warm mineral springs of Cave and Basin National Historic Site in Banff National Park, Alberta. Photo: K. Dahlin, © Parks Canada, 2002.
The warm mineral springs of Cave and Basin National Historic Site in Banff National Park, Alberta. Photo: K. Dahlin, © Parks Canada, 2002. -- Click to enlarge

On July 19, 2008, thousands of people across the country will take part in some of the more than 300 events held in recognition of Canada's Parks Day. Parks Canada and its provincial counterparts will host events in national, provincial and territorial parks and historic sites nationwide to celebrate Canada's natural and historical wealth.

The annual celebration is a great time to kick off your summer vacation. So instead of jet-setting off to your usual beach or theme park vacation this summer, why not park it -- your holiday travel that is -- and consider the extensive list of things to do at one of Canada's many parks and historic sites. Here's just a sampling of what you can do to celebrate Parks Day 2008:

You can enjoy experiences such as these at Canada's National Parks and National Historic Sites throughout the summer. Many national parks and national historic sites are open year round.

Canada's Parks Day is an opportunity to celebrate the importance of parks and historic sites from sea to sea to sea. If there isn't a national park or historic site near you, why not explore a provincial or territorial park or historic site that's just around the corner. Here are some opportunities -- perhaps even in your own backyard -- that are available:

Kite flying in front of the museum at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Photo: D. Wilson, © Parks Canada, 2003.
Kite flying in front of the museum at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Photo: D. Wilson, © Parks Canada, 2003. -- Click to enlarge

You'll find additional activities including campfire storytelling, lumberjack demonstrations, sandcastle competitions, wildflower walks and bug safaris at sites from Vancouver Island in the West, to Baffin Island in the North, and Newfoundland and Labrador in the East. Visit the Canada's Parks Day website for a full listing of these and other events.

Whether it's a day-long self-guided walking tour, an afternoon bike ride or a weeklong camping adventure, a memorable experience awaits you.

Parks Canada and other provincial agencies work to ensure Canada's cultural and natural heritage are presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future. For more information, visit Parks Canada online.

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