Not Your Typical Canada Day — Toronto’s ‘Not Like U.S.’ Crawl Aligns with Kendrick Lamar’s Visit
This Canada Day, Toronto isn’t doing the usual. The ‘Not Like U.S.’ takeover is set to roll through the city with music, satire, and a loud celebration of what makes Canada… Well, not America.
While Kendrick Lamar lands in Toronto next week for his much-awaited show, a different kind of energy is building on the streets. The crawl kicks off during the Canada Day weekend, bringing together bars, performers, and local voices to spotlight Canadian culture, identity, and pride.
For Everyone, Everywhere
Kendrick Lamar’s Toronto stop next week is big – no doubt. But the Canada Day Takeover is bigger than any one artist or city. While it kicks off in Toronto, the energy behind it is meant for everyone in Canada.
From Calgary to Montreal, Vancouver to Halifax – this is for Canadians who want to celebrate their country in a way that feels true, current, and powerful. Organizers are encouraging communities everywhere to take part, whether by hosting local events, sharing content, or joining the conversation online.
This year, Canada is stepping into its own spotlight, with a message that resonates coast to coast: we’re not like the U.S. – and we like it that way.
Canada vs. The Chaos
With U.S. politics heating up again, and Donald Trump back in the headlines – this year’s Canada Day theme hits differently. The event offers a clear, confident contrast to the noise down south.
It’s not angry. It’s not preachy. It’s Canadian – smart, funny, and full of pride. A chance to celebrate the ways Canada stands apart and leans into its own culture, humor, and values.
Getting International Attention
The ‘Not Like U.S.’ Canada Day celebration is already drawing interest beyond Canada’s borders. News stations in the United States are already watching and will likely report on how Canadians are proudly showing their pride during a time when Canada and the U.S. don’t see eye to eye on politics. This attention from other countries makes the event even more special.
Social Media Campaign and Tik Tok Contest
In addition to on-the-ground events, the ‘Not Like U.S.’ celebration is building major buzz online. Canadians across the country are encouraged to share photos and videos of their Canada Day celebrations using the hashtag #NotLikeUS.
Adding to the excitement, a TikTok dance contest is inviting Canadians to post their version of the Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us” dance. The top video with the most views will win $7,000, while the second-place entry will take home $1,000. So, taking part in the challenge can win the mega prize.
About NotLikeUSA
The “Not Like U.S.” cultural initiative is built around one idea: Canada isn’t the U.S., and that’s a good thing. Through events, content, and creative projects, it gives Canadians a chance to celebrate their identity without the usual clichés.
You can learn more at https://notlikeusa.ca
