Prime Minister Stephen Harper marked Canada Day in Ottawa Tuesday, addressing tens of thousands gathered on Parliament Hill for a full day of celebrations.

Harper, speaking before a crowd estimated at 75,000, said 2008 was a year of both celebration and reconciliation.

He mentioned the significance of the historic apology delivered by the government last month to aboriginals abused in residential schools.

The prime minister also noted that 2008 was a year marking three historic anniversaries:

  • the 400th anniversary of Quebec City's founding
  • the 250th anniversary of parliamentary democracy in Nova Scotia
  • the 150th year after British Columbia became part of the country

"Everyday in countless ways we are working together to achieve the greatness our country deserves," said Harper. "That's why on this Canada Day we are prouder than ever to call ourselves Canadians."

Governor General Michaelle Jean also spoke to the crowd, saying the "time had come" for all Canadians to unite.

Festivities began early Tuesday with a historic military parade through the streets of Ottawa.

After the parade, a formal flag-raising ceremony took place on Parliament Hill.

The tens of thousands gathered on the lawn in front of the Parliament Buildings also took in a performance by the Governor General's Foot Guards and a presentation by the RCMP Musical Ride.

Paul Brandt, Diane Dufresne and Blue Rodeo were scheduled to entertain the crowd in the lead up to the country's biggest fireworks display at 10 p.m.

Also attending the celebration in Ottawa was Gen. Rick Hillier on his last day as Canada's top military man.

In addition, the van that Terry Fox used in his epic journey across Canada was on display in Ottawa.

Meanwhile, in Newfoundland, Canada Day took in some provincial pride, as Danny Cleary and the Stanley Cup were in the Detroit Red Wings' forward's hometown of Harbour Grace.

Thousands of proud Newfoundlanders took in the experience as it was the first time a provincial son won the Stanley Cup.

Canadians in Afghanistan

Meanwhile, for many Canadians serving in Afghanistan, it is business as usual today.

The high-risk security climate has delayed Canada Day celebrations for the 300 people working at the Canadian-led reconstruction base in Kandahar City.

The Canada Day party was postponed because security levels have been increased due to the Taliban's resurgence this summer.

Warrant Officer Steve Merry of Edmonton said he doesn't mind the delay because there's no better way to celebrate being Canadian than working to help others.

At the largest base in the region, Kandahar Airfield, Canadians played hockey, took pictures with the CFL's Grey Cup, cooked meat on the barbecue and ate a Maple Leaf-themed cake.

During the Kandahar ceremony the mother of a soldier killed by a suicide bomb in 2006 presented Task Force Afghanistan a cheque for $80,000 to go towards Afghan children.

Maureen Eykelenboom made the donation on behalf of a charity in honour of her son, Cpl. Andrew James "Boomer" Eykelenboom, 23.

She said that anyone who put on a uniform -- army, police or firefighter - deserves the gratitude of Canadians.

"It doesn't take being killed to be a hero -- it takes being willing," Eykelenboom said.

Soldiers also took in shows by comedian Mike MacDonald and country singer George Canyon while enjoying a rare treat -- two beers each.

Canadian soldiers are allowed only two drinks per month, except on special occasions.

With files from The Canadian Press