A Google search for ‘2017 predictions’ quickly provides long lists of gloomy, bizarre or outright terrifying possibilities for our new year. At Solaris, we take a more pragmatic and positive approach. As we consider what to expect in 2017, this is what catches our eyes:
On July 1st, Canada will be celebrating the 150th year since Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec became a self-governing dominion of Great Britain. July 1st was known as Dominion Day until 1982, when the Canadian constitution was patriated, thus excluding British Parliament from the process of making changes to Canada’s constitution. There will be extraordinary July 1st celebrations this year all over the country.
As part of Canada’s 150th year, Parks Canada is providing free entry passes. To gain free admission to Canada’s National Parks, Historic Sites and Marine Conservation Areas, order your Discovery Pass.
This year offers a rare opportunity to see a total eclipse of the sun. On August 21st, the path of totality (the area where the eclipse will completely block the sun) will travel from the Pacific North West across to the Carolinas. The southern point of Vancouver Island will get a 90% version. The next time there is a Solar Eclipse over North America is April 8th, 2024.
Toronto is hosting what is expected to be the largest sporting and cultural gathering of Indigenous People in North America. The 2017 North American Indigenous Games takes place July 16 – 23. This will be the first time this event is being held outside of Western Canada.
Alberta events coming up soon include:
• Frosty’s Fat Bike Race Series, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, January 12 – 14
• Snowdays, Banff, January 13 – February 5
• Deep Freeze: Byzantine Winter Festival, Edmonton, January 14-15
This is just a taste of all the exciting things that 2017 has to offer. And, of course, we will have lots of sunshine in Alberta. If you’d like some shade from that sun, give Solaris a call!
