Since 1867, Canada has been celebrating its "birthday" on July 1 and is one of Canada's favorite holidays. Looking for something free to do this Canada Day? Join in on the waterfront party at Vancouver's Canada Place. After 25 years of hosting Vancouver's Canada Day party, Canada Place has built a reputation for throwing a family friendly bash that extends well into the night.

Nothing's more Canadian than a game of hockey and there will be a street hockey area set up that you're encouraged to take part in. The West Coast Lumberjack Show also screams Canada, so don't miss out on all the pole climbing, log rolling, standing block chop action.

The NorthWest Territories Dome is a 65' geodesic dome that is an interactive exhibit housing a intricate multi-media display of the culture, reality of a year and beauty of the Northwest Territories. This is something we seldom get to see living in the city and should not be missed.

There are a number of bands taking the stage that day and headlining the musical performance is Canada's own folk rock band, Spirit of the West. If anyone can, they're bound to get your feet moving and in the mood to celebrate.

Canada Day Parade — Photo courtesy of Canada Place (Facebook)

Don't forget the parade takes place from 7pm until 8pm and then it's a good idea to find yourself a good spot to view the fireworks that will be set off at 10:30pm.

Here are some time guidelines to help you plan your day:

Date: Sunday, July 1, 2012
Location: Canada Place, Jack Poole Plaza, Harbour Green Park and surrounding streets
Time: Waterfront Party - 10am to 6pm (Headline Performance from 6pm to 7pm)
          Canada Day Parade - 7pm to 8pm
          Canada Day Burrard Inlet Fireworks Show - 10:30pm to 11pm

Happy birthday, Canada! You gorgeous thing, you.

Canada Day fireworks display at Canada Place — Photo courtesy of Canada Place (Facebook)