1. Learn About The Plight Of Women At War
The plight of civilians on the battlefield is often overlooked, and the travails of women especially so. Rectify that situation with a visit this fall to the Military Museums in Calgary to view a new exhibit called Eleven Women Facing War, which tells the stories of women from conflict zones in Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, Colombia, the Balkans, Israel and the Palestinian territories.

Eleven Women Facing War
Until Dec. 2
Military Museums, Calgary
http://www.themilitarymuseums.ca

2. Experience History Firsthand In Ontario
Visit southern Ontario to see the story of the War of 1812 come to life at Backus Heritage Conservation Area. Hundreds of historical re-enactors and settlers will be setting up camp in the heritage village to provide tours, period demonstrations and a children’s mini militia.

Backus Heritage Conservation Area
Sept. 7-8
Port Rowan, Ont.
www.lprca.on.ca/events.htm

ILLUSTRATION: Peter Rindlisbacher

3. Go To The Hamilton And Scourge Memorial In Hamilton
Travel to the Dundurn National Historic Site to celebrate 200 years of peace and remember the 53 American sailors who lost their lives during the sinking of the United States Navy schooners Hamilton and Scourge in August of 1813. There will be music, indoor and outdoor children’s activities such as military drills and dress-up. Dundurn Castle and the Hamilton Military Museum will also be offering free admission.

Dundurn National Historic Site
Sept. 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Hamilton, Ont.
http://www.hamilton-scourge.hamilton.ca/

PHOTO: Murdock Smith

4. Visit The East Coast To Revel In Celtic History
For nine days in October, Cape Breton Island is home to a unique celebration of music and culture as the Celtic Colours International Festival presents dozens of concerts all over the island, an extensive line-up of community events, and a nightly Festival Club. By all accounts, it’s a great reason to visit an amazing part of Canada and learn about the Celtic culture that settled much of Canada in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

Celtic Colours International Festival
Oct. 11-19
Cape Breton Island, N.S.
http://www.celtic-colours.com/

PHOTO: Parks Canada/H. Thompson

5. Remember Halifax During The Second World War
If you are visiting Nova Scotia in October, visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site to recall the Citadel’s role in the Second World War. Members of the Atlantic WW II Living History Association will be dressed in the uniforms of the Canadian, British and American troops who inhabited the city during the war.

World War II Living History Encampment
Oct. 19-20
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Halifax
http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/halifax/index.aspx