Free summer admission to Canada's national parks and historic sites begins Friday
OTTAWA — The 'Canada Strong Pass' takes effect Friday, offering free admission to national parks, national historic sites and marine conservation areas maintained by Parks Canada.
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The pass also includes a 25 per cent discount on camping fees.
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The program, which runs until Sept. 2, follows up on a Liberal campaign promise to promote Canadian tourism in response to the United States' tariff war.
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'We've seen an incredible show of unity from Canadians since the beginning of the year,' said Steven Guilbeault, the federal minister responsible for Parks Canada, in a news release. 'Our Canada Strong Pass aims to make it even easier for families to choose Canada — to discover the beauty of our country, connect with nature and enjoy our culture all summer long.'
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The release goes on to say that by making these experiences more accessible, the pass enables Canadians to connect with what unites us, discover our country's diversity, take pride in our shared Canadian identity and immerse ourselves in the stories and landscapes that shape who we are.
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The pass also covers free national museum admission for children 17 and under, and a 50 per cent discount for 18- to 24 year-olds.
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Via Rail is also offering free fares for children 17 and under if they are accompanied by an adult, and a 25 per cent discount for travellers 18 to 24 years old.
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