Online shopping has become an undeniable way of life. In 2024, nearly 30 million Canadians—roughly 72% of the population—made purchases online. Yet, despite the unmatched convenience of buying from the comfort of home, there is still a compelling case for shopping in person ― particularly for one-of-a-kind pieces. Galleries and boutique shops showcasing original artwork, handmade artisan goods, upscale décor, antiques and vintage treasures offer much more than a soulless point-and-click.
In addition to the standard historical and religious events, it seems there’s a designated day for just about every global cause, scientific wonder, special interest, food item and quirky pop culture trend. Special designated days cover the spectrum from serious observations such as the upcoming International Day of Peace to fun and silly events such as International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Falling somewhere in the middle of the serious-to-silly range are hobbies and special interests such as National Collect Rocks Day.
This blog post is big! It’s packed with giant things ― specifically bigger-than-life sculptures of everyday objects designed to delight, amuse and grab attention. These preposterously sized ordinary items run the gamut from serious works of art to quirky roadside attractions.
It wasn’t all that long ago a woman wouldn’t dream of leaving her home without donning a hat. Prior to the 1950s, wearing a hat was a cultural necessity for men, women, and children, serving as a key indicator of social standing and respectability.
The shores of Nova Scotia offer an abundance of wishing stones. And yet, finding the perfect one never grows old!
Most botanical display gardens excel at traditional design, showcasing timeless structures like geometric layouts, harmonious planting schemes and beautifully curated focal points. These extraordinary spaces typically reflect distinct historical styles. Reford Gardens in Grand-Métis Quebec, for instance, is an outstanding example of a grand, early 20th-century, English estate.
