The long weekend kicked into high gear Friday, as politicians participated in an opening ceremony for a five-day festival celebrating all things Canada.
Highlights of Sesquifest include Toronto-born singer FeFe Dobson, who headlines the Carolinian Stage at the corner of Dundas and Talbot streets Friday night, followed by another free concert by Canadian rock band Sloan set for Sunday.
READ MORE: Downtown street closures in place for London’s SesquiFest
Long lines of people gathered for free ice cream, and for a virtual reality tour of Canada inside a unique dome that’s travelling the country.
“I’m looking forward to the show here,” said Erica Bell, standing outside of the “Sesquidome.” “I think that’s one of the primary things that we’re really looking forward to that we know about. There’s just so much to explore!”
During the opening ceremony, Mayor Matt Brown challenged Londoners not to ignore the “difficult” and “disturbing” elements that make up parts of Canada’s history.
“The past 150 years have come with a lot of challenges, particularly how our First Nations partners have been treated,” he said.
READ MORE: London Humane Society says leave dogs home during Canada Day fireworks
“There are things that are really quite concerning, things that should not have happened. And as we reflect on Canada Day 150, I think it’s an opportunity to look forward to the next 150 years to make sure that we’re moving forward together.”
Before standing with other politicians and handing out a Canada Day flag cake made up of nearly 3,000 cupcakes with red and white icing, London North Centre Liberal MP Peter Fragiskatos told the crowd this long weekend’s celebrations will be unforgettable.
“There are many challenges that we still need to meet, as a country. But I think we can meet those challenges with a sense of love of country, patriotism. And that’s what we see. Canada 150, I don’t know about you, but I have never seen this much excitement,” he said.
For a list of activities going on this long weekend, click here.
For a list of stores that are open and closed, click here.