The nation's 141st birthday celebration will begin during the day on Monday, June 30 and carry over to Tuesday, July 1, rain or shine.

Due to the rainy weather during Family Day last month, some of the outdoor activities scheduled for that day will be held on June 30 from 2 to 6 p.m., when a climbing wall and a petting zoo will be open to the public. Pony rides will also be available for children 10 years and under.

Another attraction will be the Royal West Academy Jazz Band, under the direction of music teacher François Olivier Fortin, who will be playing from 5 to 6 pm at the main playing field. The band is made up of 22 Grades 10 and 11 students who have been selected to play at the Montreal Jazz Festival on July 2 at the big stage at Place des Arts — so Westmount's Canada Day festivities are providing a warm-up venue for them.

Again this year, outdoor enthusiasts will have an opportunity to camp in the park. There are 50 spots available, and while there is no charge to participate, spaces must be reserved by June 27 by calling 514-989-5323. Campers will arrive at the park with their camping gear from 4 to 8 p.m. for registration and to set up. Choice of spots will be on a first-come basis. If you would like to participate but don't have a tent, the local Scouts have a few to lend.

For supper, participants will either enjoy a picnic dinner brought from home or purchased hot dogs and hamburgers barbequed by the Scouts, followed by sitting back and relaxing or playing on the park equipment.

The traditional campfire in the park will begin at about 8:30 p.m., complete with toasted marshmallows and a sing-along with a local musician. At 10:30 p.m. it will be lights out, as participants get rested for the busy day ahead.

On Tuesday, July 1, campers will wake up to a $2 'toonie' pancake breakfast hosted by Westmount volunteers, served from 8 to 9:30 a.m. to both campers and the public.

For those who want to sleep in on the holiday, a barbeque lunch will begin at noon on Academy Road, next to the pool. Participants will again enjoy hamburgers and hot dogs and beverages available for sale.

And, of course, it would not be Canada Day in Westmount without the traditional Splash Bash, which will begin at the municipal pool at 2 p.m. The afternoon will include games and races for all ages, as well as prizes and the big Canada Day cake.

For more information about any of the events, call the Community Events office at 514-989-5323 or go to www.westmount.org.

Photo Canada Day