Not a lot happens on Canada Day, in contrast to the grandiose events in Paris on 14 July, and patriotic ceremonial in many other countries on their national day. In Ottawa and provincial capitals the military fire a 21 gun salute. The Mounties get to show off their horses on Parliament Hill and there is an air force fly-past. Governor General and Prime Minister plus some premiers publish inspirational, quite predictable messages. There is a banal fête populaire at an improvised stage on the Hill, broadcast nationally. Across the country for a few moments the night sky is lit with fireworks. The national press is loaded with reflective articles on who we are, mostly not worth quoting. Outside the country there is scarcely a mention. This year marks 140 years since Confederation.We get a long weekend.