The Guess Who, a renowned Canadian rock band, is set to perform in Ottawa as part of the city’s 200th-anniversary celebrations. Founding members Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings are reuniting after 23 years for their Takin’ It Back Tour at Ottawa Bluesfest on July 19. The event is part of a special day of programming organized by the city and Ottawa Tourism to commemorate Ottawa’s bicentennial.
Various events are being planned to highlight Ottawa’s rich history and cultural diversity. These include a family-friendly gathering at Marion Dewar Plaza, a community-driven exhibit at city hall, and the launch of an arts, culture, and entertainment hub in downtown Ottawa. The city has announced that a comprehensive list of Ottawa 200 events will be revealed in the upcoming year.
Funding for the programming is sourced from the municipal accommodation tax and is primarily managed by Ottawa Tourism. The organization has extended invitations to a diverse range of vendors to participate in the official celebrations, aiming to represent all facets of Ottawa’s history.
Jérôme Miousse, the director of public affairs at Ottawa Tourism, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the celebration. He highlighted the significance of involving Indigenous and francophone operators to ensure representation for all groups in Ottawa’s historical narrative.
The construction of the Rideau Canal, initiated in 1826 by Lt.-Col. John By, played a pivotal role in shaping Ottawa’s early development. However, it also caused disruptions for the Algonquin Anishinābe community, who had long been stewards of the land along the Ottawa River. Chloe Dennis, historian and exhibits manager at Bytown Museum, explained the impact of the canal’s construction on the indigenous population and their way of life.
The Historical Society of Ottawa, in anticipation of the city’s bicentennial, has planned a series of events focusing on Bytown and the Rideau Canal’s history. The society intends to explore the region’s heritage through a three-part speaker series and an exhibition titled “What’s in a Frame? 200 plus years of community portraits” at the Bytown Museum.
Chloe Dennis, collaborating with various local organizations and individuals, is curating the exhibition to showcase the diverse stories of Ottawa’s residents throughout its history. The initiative aims to honor the past, present, and future inhabitants of Ottawa, reflecting on the city’s evolution over the years.
