At 2:00 p.m. on Canada Day, the public is invited to gather outside the new Elgin Street entrance of the National Arts Centre for the official opening.

The official opening of the spectacular new glass atrium at the National Arts Centre in the presence of His Excellency David Johnston and thousands of other dignitaries, including artists, architects, construction workers, NAC staff, patrons and members of the public.

The public is invited to gather outside the new Elgin Street entrance of the National Arts Centre for the official opening.

150 people including artists, architects, construction workers, and NAC patrons will cut a ribbon that runs a full city block from the corner of Freiman Lane to Albert Street and the Oscar Peterson statue. A ceremony hosted by Canadian actor Colm Feore will include speeches by dignitaries, a welcoming dance by Kitigan Zibi artists Josée Bourgeois and Yancey Thusky, a performance of “Hymn to Freedom” by Gregory Charles, Dione Taylor and a children’s choir, and a dance performance in the City Room.

Doors open to the public for self-guided tours at 3:00 p.m. A BBQ will be open near the NAC’s canal entrance.