25 January 2017'Ottawa Welcomes the World' launching WednesdayMore than 75 countries and international partners will participate in a year-long multicultural event series called “Ottawa Welcomes the World,” which will launch Wednesday evening.The launch will be held at the Horticulture Building at Lansdown Park and will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.The showcase is part of Canada 150 celebrations and runs from March to December. In addition to high commissions and embassies of dozens of countries, partners such as the Ottawa Diplomatic Association will hold their own events.All events are free and will be presented at Lansdowne Park. A full list of dates are available on ottawa2017.ca . Some highlights include Africa Day on May 24, which will involve 30 countries and an event on June 11 by 18 European Union nations.“As the capital of Canada and host of so many foreign embassies and high commissions, our city has the unique opportunity to engage the international community in Canada’s 150thbirthday celebrations,” said Mayor Jim Watson in a news release. “Ottawa Welcomes the World is a wonderful way for residents and visitors to discover and connect with our rich multicultural heritage.”