Canada Day 2020 will not be as outwardly festive this year due to event cancellations, but the lovely North Shore still offers you many ways to celebrate. With social distancing a priority when small groups venture out, numerous outdoor venues offer an easy solution for limiting contact with large crowds.

Although many of the region’s parks are re-opening for summer, some closures are still in effect. Be sure to call ahead to verify accessibility for the places that you choose to visit.

1. Go Hiking at Lighthouse Park

Hiking makes social distancing nearly effortless. You and your family or a few friends can have your own celebration while touring the beautiful landscape at Lighthouse Park. This 75-hectare park has trails that take you into a lush rain forest with old growth Douglas firs over 500 years old and 60 meters high. If July 1 turns out to be hot, the cool shade of an ancient grove will shelter your group from the sun.

2. Visit Seymour Mainline Picnic Area

Pack your favourite treats for a picnic and put the hustle and bustle of the city behind you. If you’re not looking for a workout, don’t worry. Many of the hiking trails here are easy to moderate in difficulty. When you get hungry, stop at a picnic table and enjoy your lunch surrounded by alpine beauty.

3. Watch the North Vancouver Virtual Celebration

From 1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. on July 1, the Rotary Club will present an online fundraising event for Canada Day. Club members have booked many local acts to provide entertainment. Enjoy the show from the comfort of your home.

4. Make a Big Family Dinner

This is the year when most of us have to make our own fun at home. Fresh food from local farms is abundant now that summer is here. It’s an excellent time for a barbecue featuring grass-fed meat or wild-caught salmon.

Whether you plan to stay home or take a hike this Canada Day, the specialty foods and supplies that you desire are available at Lynn Valley Centre. We’re open, and many of our retailers are processing orders online for you.