It is finally summer and  we’re reminded of the many reasons we love our country. Perhaps the most prominent and one we’re often revered for, is the vast natural beauty and diversity of the Canadian landscape. Unfortunately, many Canadians are unable to find the time, or lack the ideas, to enjoy our nation’s great outdoors. In fact, Coleman Canada discovered that nearly two-thirds of Canadians spend fewer than two hours per week outside doing recreational activities1.

This shocking revelation led to the launch of the Get Outside Day movement, to excite and encourage Canadians to get outside and reap the physical and mental benefits of spending time outdoors. Now in its third year, Coleman continues to build a hub for the movement with the support of like minded partners backing the cause. A dedicated website, http://www.getoutsidecanada.com, along with a full social media campaign, provide inspiration and ideas for how Canadians can make the most of their time outdoors.

Knowing that time is also a barrier, Coleman continues to petition the Canadian government to declare one day this summer National Get Outside Day – a day dedicated to spending much-needed time outdoors. The third Friday of July – July 15th – is the proposed date for 2016, and with over 1,350 signatures received so far, all Canadians are encouraged to support the cause.

In an effort to provide Canadians with fun and easy ideas to enjoy their time outdoors, Coleman has expanded the Get Outside Day website to include five new pillars focusing on: camping, cooking, fishing, staycation and watersports. If setting up a tent and making your home the woods for a weekend isn’t your idea of fun, why not try a picnic in the park, paddling across the water in a canoe, or creating your own summer Olympics in the backyard? There’s a little something for everyone, with tons of ideas and inspiration to make the most of their time outside, all summer (and year) long!

To learn more about the petition to make July 15th a national holiday, and for suggestions, inspiration and ideas on how you and your loved ones can #GetOutside this summer season, visit http://www.getoutsidecanada.com. To share your photos, videos or comments, please visit us on Twitter at @getoutsideday and on Facebook at Coleman Canada and use the #GetOutside hashtag.

Great Ideas to Get Outside!

If you need some inspiration, Coleman has put together some great ideas to get outside! Here are some of the ideas we liked best.

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Idea #17: Watermelon Keg

 

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Idea #20: Glowstick Bowling

 

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Idea #24: Outdoor Theatre

So will you be signing the petition? And what will you be doing on July 15? We would like to know!

 

Get Outside Infographic

Coleman-Get-Outside-Day-Manifesto