Yellowknife (July 02/03) - People crowded the streets of Yellowknife to celebrate Canada's 136th birthday with the annual Rotary Club parade.

Several parade watchers took time to reflect on the true meaning of the day.

"I come and watch this every year," said Christina Ivens. "I'm here to celebrate the freedom and diversity of this great country we live in."

For some, the day is all about spending time with family.

Yellowknifer Rita Brown sat on the sidewalk next to her sisters, all of them wearing goofy maple leaf hats, and said the day brings loved ones close.

"Canada Day means a family reunion for us," said Brown.

Brown said her three sisters came to Yellowknife eight years ago to witness her renew her wedding vows and realized they had not been united for over 14 years. They made a pact to get together at least once every year.

"You don't know what you miss until you don't have everyone together," said Brown.

Wally Wolfe watched over his grandchildren and expresses his feelings about Canada's place in world affairs.

"I don't see why we should jump on the bandwagon every time the U.S. wants to do something -- we're independent. And events like this just prove it," said Wolfe.

Larry Elkin said the day is about celebrating Canada and a chance to spend time with his family.

"We've got all the family together today and we're going to watch the parade and head over to City Hall to enjoy the celebrations together," Elkin said.

"We're going to take time enjoying all the rights Canadians have. We have so many opportunities in Canada and lots of countries don't have that."