The Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival in Toronto will open July 31. This celebration of Chinese craftsmanship and culture will light up the Ontario Place waterfront until October 12, 2008.

This Chinese Lantern Festival is the largest lantern festival to take place outside Asia and one of the most impressive presentations of its kind in North America. The installations can be as high as 50 feet and as long as 300 feet. This year's festival will see its theme increased in scope to include lanterns reflecting animals, dinosaurs and architectural wonders from around the world.

The festival is not only a feast for the eyes, but visitors' tastebuds are in for a treat as well, with vendors serving up traditional Chinese fare. Acrobatic shows, merchandise and movies are part of the lineup as well.

See pictures of the Chinese Lantern Festival

Photo courtesy Ontario Place Corporation

July 1 is Canada Day. Across the country, people are chilling beer, preparing burgers for the barbecue and otherwise getting ready to party with friends to celebrate Canada's birthday. Other than barbecues, Canada Day celebrations include parades and firework displays.

Ottawa has the biggest Canada Day celebration, that starts with a parade, includes an RCMP musical ride, concerts, and caps off with a fireworks display.