The Department of National Defence is advising residents of Ottawa to expect loud noises downtown on Saturday during an event to mark the 200th anniversary of Bytown. A free, public event will take place along the Rideau Canal from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will include the firing of blank cannon rounds from Parliament Hill approximately four times from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. to start the assault boat race heats, DND says. “People nearby should expect a series of sudden, loud booms at intervals during the competition. No live ammunition will be used,” a news release said. “The cannon fire is a planned and controlled [Canadian Armed Forces] ceremonial activity. Trained personnel will conduct all activities under established safety procedures and in coordination with the City of Ottawa, the National Capital Commission, Parks Canada and other government partners.” Residents are asked to remain outside the marked safety perimeter around the artillery position during the event. The event will begin at the Lt. Col. John By statue in Major’s Hill Park, with remarks by Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Chief Military Engineer Major-General Nicolas Pilon and other dignitaries. At 2 p.m., a five-kilometre fun run and walk will follow the canal pathway, while teams compete in a race using Canadian Military Engineer assault boats between the Rideau Street and Mackenzie King bridges. Closing activities will take place at Cartier Square Drill Hall from 4 to 5 p.m. This event coincides with the Ottawa 200 Block Party at Marion Dewar Plaza. Events begin at 10 a.m. and run until 10 p.m., with family-friendly programming and community activities. There will be a Foodie Zone, Beer Garden, an interactive art zone, musical performances and a family zone. OC Transpo service is free this weekend.
