Father’s Day celebrations across Ottawa

From spending the day in the sun to taking part in a charity hockey game, families in Ottawa stayed busy for Father’s Day. CTV’s Camille Wilson reports.

Fathers across the nation’s capital were celebrating Father’s Day on Sunday with their families.

Some dads spent the day at the park enjoying a picnic and fun with their children. The event was put on by the Ottawa Italian Committee as the final event wrapped up the Italian Week festivities.

“We wanted to meld this tradition in Italy where during harvest times, people come together, neighbors come together, families come together to have picnics outside or enjoy a shared food and share community outdoors,” said Alexina McLeod, board member of Italian Week Ottawa.

“We thought it was a nice way to celebrate fathers and Italian culture and heritage at the same time.”

Families got to enjoy Italian-style sandwiches from Di Rienzo, play lawn games and listen to Italian music.

“There are not too many opportunities to spend time with the kids. They’re always busy. Especially on such a nice day, it’s a great time to be together,” said Fabio Moneta, enjoying the Father’s Day picnic in the park with family.

“We love getting outside and it’s such a beautiful day,” added Angela Howell-Moneta. “We love to just try to be together without screens.”

Spending quality time is what matters to most dads. Some in the park say they just wanted to keep the day simple.

The Nepean Rookies hockey league held a dad and son or dad and daughter hockey game, to raise money for charity.

“With the economy the way it is, I figured the ones hardest hit are the ones that require charities and donations. We put on this event so all the funds today will go towards, the charity of everyone’s choices. The main one that we’re giving to is CHEO,” said John Cho, organizer for the Nepean Rookies.

Cho says he thought it would be a good time for everyone to enjoy their time with their dads or parental figures.

“What a better way to spend Father’s Day than playing hockey with your son. It’s great to share something we’re both passionate about together,” said Derick Lalonde, a Nepean Rookie playing hockey with his son.

“I like playing hockey with my dad a lot. I play in my basement a lot with him,” said Arthur.

“It’s fun to get together, play ice hockey with my son and being on the same ice,” added Mario Guindon.

“It’s a good time to get together and share these moments together”

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