Franco Ontario day 2

It’s been 40 years since the Franco-Ontario flag was first raised; it’s also been 400 years since Samuel de Champlain first passed through this part of Canada.

With that in mind a big celebration was held outside of City Hall today to mark the occasion.

Communications Officer Marianne Denis says it’s important for the Franco-Ontario students to learn about the history of the flag and about Champlain.

Franco Ontario day 1

She says this is their heritage and they should be loud and proud about their history.

Denis adds this was the biggest Franco-Ontario day in North Bay with 1500 students attending the celebrations.