A newly formed initiative called Everyone Outdoors Together aims to unite Canadians by encouraging them to spend time in nature on July 18th, coinciding with National Parks Day.Led by Martin Sampson of the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association and Jennie McCaffrey of B.C.Parks Foundation, the project seeks to foster community connections through shared outdoor experiences.

The idea originated from a chance conversation between Sampson and McCaffrey while they were outdoors—Sampson on a paddleboard in Ontario and McCaffrey in a canoe in British Columbia.

They envisioned creating a national event where people could gather outdoors, whether for a sunset, evening walk, or other activities, to promote health and environmental awareness.

The initiative emphasizes inclusivity, allowing participants to engage with nature in ways that suit their lifestyles, from simple backyard moments to more active pursuits.

Sampson envisions the event becoming a cultural staple by 2028, reflecting a societal shift toward valuing outdoor time for both personal well-being and planetary health.The project also draws parallels to past events like the 2003 northeast blackout, which inadvertently brought communities together outdoors.

By combining social engagement with environmental advocacy, Everyone Outdoors Together represents a grassroots effort to redefine how Canadians interact with nature.