What's Up Canada

04/22/2025

Lester Bowles Pearson, often called "Mike," served as the 14th Prime Minister of Canada from April 22, 1963, until April 20, 1968. He led two back-to-back minority governments following elections in 1963 and 1965. Pearson was a key figure in introducing significant reforms during his tenure, including universal health care, student loans, the Canada Pension Plan, and the adoption of Canada's flag. He also improved pensions and waged a "war on poverty." Pearson was known for his bipartisan foreign policy, supporting international cooperation and peacekeeping efforts. He convened the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and was the first Canadian to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957.

04/22/2025

Marking 80 Years of Liberation, the 73rd edition of the Festival honors Canada's heroic role in freeing the Netherlands during the Second World War, and the enduring bond that bloomed from it.

Co-hosted with the Canadian Army, the Festival welcomes HRH Princess Margriet of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, who was born in Ottawa during the war. Along with Canadian Second World War veterans Retired Private John Preece and Honourary Lieutenant-General Richard Rohmer, Canada's most decorated living Canadian veteran, will join in on the festivities.

04/22/2025

Royal Gift of Tulips: In 1945, the Dutch royal family sent 100,000 tulip bulbs to Canada as a gesture of gratitude for sheltering them during World War II and for Canada's role in liberating the Netherlands. This annual gift continues to this day.

04/22/2025

The Canadian Rockies—UNESCO World Heritage Site:

The Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, including Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks, collectively form a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for exceptional natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

These parks feature turquoise glacial lakes, spectacular mountain ranges, glaciers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Millions of visitors from around the world are drawn annually to the region’s pristine wilderness and outdoor recreation opportunities.

03/22/2025

03/22/2025

Cape Spear: First to See the Sunrise

Located in Newfoundland, Cape Spear is the easternmost point in North America. This distinction means it's often the first place on the continent to witness the sunrise.

The Cape Spear Lighthouse, a National Historic Site, stands sentinel, guiding mariners and providing a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century lighthouse keeper.

03/22/2025

"Arthur"—A Beloved Canadian-American Collaboration: Although initially based on books by American author Marc Brown, the animated series Arthur is considered a major Canadian-American production. Produced largely by Cookie Jar Group (now WildBrain) in Canada, the show first aired in 1996 and ran for 25 seasons, becoming the longest-running children's animated series in American television history. Known for tackling complex social issues thoughtfully and inclusively, Arthur helped shape countless children's understanding of friendship, diversity, and family life.