Ottawa is gearing up to celebrate its 200th anniversary with a special guest appearance by legendary Canadian rock band The Guess Who. Founding members Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings are reuniting after a lengthy 23-year break to headline the Takin’ It Back Tour at Ottawa Bluesfest on July 19. This event is part of a series of festivities planned by the city and Ottawa Tourism to commemorate the bicentennial, highlighting Ottawa’s diverse cultural heritage.
Among the planned activities are a family-friendly gathering at Marion Dewar Plaza, an exhibit showcasing community inspiration at city hall, and the establishment of a new arts, culture, and entertainment district in the city center. Further details on the Ottawa 200 events will be revealed in the coming year, with funding for the programming sourced from the municipal accommodation tax and coordinated primarily by Ottawa Tourism.
Jérôme Miousse, the Director of Public Affairs at Ottawa Tourism, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the celebration, stating, “We are seeking participation from all segments of the population that have contributed to Ottawa’s rich history, including Indigenous and Francophone operators, to ensure everyone feels represented.”
The historical significance of Ottawa’s evolution will be a central theme of the bicentennial celebrations. From the construction of the Rideau Canal in 1826 under Lt.-Col. John By to the displacement of the Algonquin Anishinābe people, the city’s past is a tapestry of diverse stories. The impact of the lumber industry on Ottawa’s landscape and the transformation of Bytown into the vibrant city of Ottawa are key historical milestones that will be explored through various events and exhibitions.
The Historical Society of Ottawa is preparing a comprehensive speaker series and a community portrait exhibition at the Bytown Museum to delve into the narratives of Bytown, the Rideau Canal, and their effects on the region’s original inhabitants. Collaborations with local organizations and individuals, such as schools, cultural museums, and artists, will enrich the exhibition’s portrayal of Ottawa’s historical journey from its inception to the present day and beyond.