If you haven’t been to Ottawa since your eighth-grade civics trip, there’s no better time to pay another visit than Canada Day. The party is in full swing wherever you go, the fireworks on Parliament Hill are top-notch and (sorry winter lovers) the city is at its most gorgeous. But to properly navigate the full range of festivities and get the most out of your capital Canada Day, you’ll need a little guidance. Here are five things that will help see you through the big bash. 

To go to the Hill or not to go to the Hill? 

If you’re venturing to the heart of the party, take transit and be prepared to wait as crammed OC Transpo articulated buses pass you by. Your ride will eventually come; to pass the time you can play Six Degrees of Tony Clement, which will last about 45 seconds because if you work in certain sectors — media, arts or politics, say — Ottawa can feel like a small town where everyone goes to the same parties. Except on Canada Day, that is. This time it’s a party with thousands of your sweaty besties — and their dogs. But if that’s not your cup of Timmie’s, you can always attend the smaller community celebrations in neighbourhoods such as Westboro Village, The Glebe, Chinatown, Little Italy or Wellington West (check here for more information on those and other neighbourhoods). Expect an even more chilled-out vibe — and that distinct fear-of-missing-out feeling one gets when the biggest party in town is so close, yet so far away.

The view from Nepean Point 

Ah, Nepean Point. It’s known for its panoramic view of Parliament Hill and as a capital make-out spot. Head to the point, located behind the National Gallery, to get an amazing view of the Parliament Hill fireworks reflecting off the Ottawa River. Or, head south of the Hill to Confederation Park to catch a few wisps and high-flying sparks. If you have a friend who lives in one of the many high-rises in Centretown, you may enjoy a balcony or rooftop view, or you can simply linger along Wellington or Rideau streets and crane your neck. This is the day where the sidewalks don’t roll up at 5 p.m. and everyone has shed the pallor and malaise of long winters. The geeky, the tenured and the truant come together to beam with civic pride. In a place known as a hub of public policy and the nexus of four layers of government (those three, plus the National Capital Commission), this is saying something.