Retired Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield to speak in Montreal

Chris Hadfield, the first Canadian to command the International Space Station, is celebrating his country’s 150th birthday on home soil.

The 58-year-old will be speaking Thursday at Théâtre Maisonneuve in Montreal.

He spent 26 years outside Canada, serving in the military and the Canadian Space Agency.

READ MORE: Chris Hadfield reminds us of all the good things that happened in 2016

Hadfield says the 150th birthday is a chance to delve into the country’s past and look at problems and successes.

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“Having a 150th birthday, to me, it’s just a great chance to look around and then look forward,” Hadfield told Global News.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Having a 150th birthday, to me, it's just a great chance to look around and then look forward," Hadfield told Global News.

Through his time in space, Hadfield gained popularity for his musical performances.

READ MORE: Chris Hadfield, Jim Cuddy among Order of Canada recipients

Those in attendance Thursday will get a taste of Hadfield’s musical talents.

“There will be a bunch of music that people haven’t heard,” he said.

“Music that both celebrates and hopefully makes you think a little bit about Canada.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Music that both celebrates and hopefully makes you think a little bit about Canada."

Hadfield said he plans on showing images during his speech to celebrate his country, a place he says “didn’t happen by magic.”

“It is just such a treat to be with a group of people talking about our country on a birthday,” Hadfield told Global News.

“Thinking about what we all collectively can be doing next together.”