"I came to Canada as a young man from Portugal, and I know how special Canada Day is for me and for the thousands of newcomers who now call Canada their home. I want to invite all Ontarians to join us at Queen's Park to enjoy
our nation's birthday party, and to show the world how proud we are of our province and of our country," said DeFaria, Canada's first elected parliamentarian of Portuguese heritage.
The festivities will include the cutting of the giant Canada Day birthday cake, musical and dance entertainment on the big, main stage from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The grounds of the Ontario Legislature will be dotted with interactive
games, face-painting clowns, children's amusement rides and family activities. The 21-gun salute by the 7th Toronto Regiment of the Royal Canadian Artillery,the singing of O Canada and cutting a giant Canada Day birthday cake will mark the 12 noon opening ceremonies. Both the east and west sections of Queen's Park Crescent will be closed between College and Wellesley Streets. All activities and entertainment are free.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to join together, for families and friends from all cultural and ethnic backgrounds, to celebrate our shared heritage and renew our spirit of commitment to this great land," said DeFaria.
"It is a lot of fun, too. Canada Day at Queen's Park is a chance for kids and parents to have a great time while showing their pride in Canada."