Find True North in the East: Canada Day in Beijing

Oh, Canada, while you might cop a bit of slack from the antics of your brother below, the rest of the world is grateful for your maple syrup, peanut butter, Ellen Page and Ryan Reynold contributions (although maybe no more Justin Bieber’s, please). July 1 is Canada Day don’tchaknow and Canucks around the city can rejoice in the knowledge that here in Beijing we have found poutine, moosehead beer, and the saucy clammato-based Caesar drink favored by many (imagine a seaside infused Bloody Mary) among other northern delights.

Starting off the celebrations a wee bit early on June 28 is our very own the Beijinger’s annual chilli-eating contest, hosted by the Canadian International School of Beijing, where the tastebuds of ten contestants will be set ablaze while they chow down as many fiery chilies as possible in three minutes. After watching an undoubtedly gut-wrenching show, spectators can enjoy an afternoon filled with activities, games, food, and lucky draw prizes courtesy of the China Canada Business Council. Here's our preparation guide for those brave enough to try.

June 29 you can continue the party at 4corners "Canada Day" where Jun Trinh has prepared a spread of classic Canadian cuisine such as:

• One liter of Screech Rum to be poured as free shots (one per person), until the supply last
• Poutine with squeaky homemade cheese curds
• Toronto street-style sausages
• Caesar clammato drinks with celery salt
• Moosehead beer as well as supplementary Jing A beer from Canadian co-owner Kristian Li (they have a Tim Horton’s coffee infused brew in the works as well)

So dig out your best red and white attire, let your guard down, and celebrate all things Canad-eh-an.

Photo: Courtesy Jamie McCaffrey (Flickr)