The True North Strong and Free

Ava's adventures in Vancouver continued today with an all day celebration of Canada Day.  We started by paying homage to the First Peoples by visiting the giant inukshuk in English Bay.  

Ava then took her second boat ride of the trip to Granville Island, this time on a False Creek Ferry (the competitor to the Aquabus). 

The purpose of today's visit was to play at the free water park in the warm sun and Ava took full advantage riding the waterslide several times, getting sprayed, and playing in the splash pools .

After riding the bus back to the waterfront, Ava wasn't allowed into the (Three?)Lions Pub because they only had a bar/club license, but they directed us to the Steamworks Brewing Co. where Ava enjoyed a burger whilst watching the USA-Belgium match.  Despite the tough loss, we enjoyed the match, and Abby and Chris enjoyed their fresh beers. 

The big Canada Day festivities were held at Canada Place, and we braved the crowds to get free Canada swag, wander through the Canadian Forces and sports pavilions, do some arts and crafts, and see some strange Canadian band on stage. 

With the sun not setting until super late, Ava had to stay up well past her bedtime to watch the 10:30pm fireworks show, which was well worth it especially when the crowd spontaneously sang "O Canada."