Five Things To Do And See

1. Meet Sam Steele

Sam Steele had a way of being at the forefront of Canadian history. He was one of the first to join the North West Mounted Police, met Sitting Bull when he fled into Saskatchewan after the Battle of Little Bighorn, policed the Klondike gold rush and commanded Lord Strathcona’s cavalry unit during the South African War. The University of Alberta has created a display of 198 items related to his colourful history at the Enterprise Square Gallery in Edmonton.

The Journey Of A Canadian Hero: Sam Steele
Until September 30
University of Alberta
Enterprise Square Gallery, Edmonton
steele-cms.library.ualberta.ca

2. Enjoy Celtic Music And Heritage

For nine days this October, Cape Breton Island will host a unique celebration of music and culture when the Celtic Colours International Festival presents dozens of concerts all over the island, an extensive lineup of community cultural events. Since 1997, the festival has featured hundreds of artists from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, England, Brittany, Spain and elsewhere in a celebration of the Celtic spirit that settled much of Canada in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

Celtic Colours International Festival
October 5-13
Cape Breton Island, N.S.
www.celtic-colours.com

3. Witness A Battle From The War Of 1812

There is likely no better way to mark the War of 1812’s historic bicentennial year than by going out to watch an actual battle from the war. And so for that reason alone you should pack up and head to Dunvegan in eastern Ontario, site of the Glengarry Pioneer Museum and setting for an all-encompassing War of 1812 re-enactment weekend on Sept. 22-23.  The Glengarry Light Infantry, Canadian Fencibles and other groups such as 1812 Civilians will be on hand for the re-enactments. Also, there will be an 1812 fashion show!

War Of 1812 Re-Enactment Weekend
September 22-23
Dunvegan, Ont.
www.glengarrypioneermuseum.ca

4. Go West For The War Of 1812 Experience

Canada Place on Vancouver’s waterfront opens up an exciting new exhibit: the War Of 1812 Experience. The former site of Expo’86 has been transformed into a multi-facetted convention and visitors’ centre. Costumed staff and interactive kiosks will help explain the war and its legacy to Canada. Events are suitable for all ages and are free.

The War Of 1812 Experience
Until March 2014
Canada Place, Vancouver
www.canadaplace.ca

5. Be Scared At Fort Chambly

Have a very scary (and fun) Halloween by visiting Fort Chambly National Historic Site. Located on the edge of the Richelieu River not far from Montreal, the fort was built in 1711 and has been restored to reflect its period of history as a reminder of the French presence in North America. Family activities are planned throughout the day.

Halloween At Fort Chambly
October 27
Fort Chambly National Historic Site, Chambly, Que.
www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/qc/fortchambly/index.aspx