Canada's long-anticipated 150th birthday celebrations Saturday were marked by heavy rain and some protests, though the downpour failed to dampen spirits of revelers who thronged in large numbers to enjoy musical performances and parades.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau kicked off celebrations amid heavy security and some 25,000 people assembled at a large outdoor event in front of the national parliament in Ottawa, where Irish singer Bono and other members of rock band U2 enthralled the audience.
"When others build walls, you open doors; when others divide, your arms are open wide; where you lead, others follow," Bono said. But the bad weather meant a fly-past featuring Canadian warplanes was canceled and later on, an evening concert was delayed by an hour to allow the rainstorms to pass.