Happy Fourth—Canadian Style! See How This US Ambassador Celebrated the Holiday Abroad

OTTAWA, ONT.—When Ambassador David L. Cohen began planning an Independence Day celebration back in March, it didn’t matter to him that it wouldn’t be taking place in the United States but rather at his residence in Ottawa, Canada. “The United States and Canada are each other’s most important friend, partner, and ally,” the ambassador told BizBash. “We both share a fundamental commitment to democracy.”

Fitting, as Ambassador Cohen’s birthplace is the same as the U.S. Constitution’s—Philadelphia. “My Philadelphia roots were at the heart of every aspect of this event,” the diplomat explained, which was made possible with the help of Philadelphia-based, full-service event production company ESM Productions.“My Philadelphia roots were at the heart of every aspect of this event,” Ambassador Cohen (pictured) said, noting that a standout was the "authentic Philly foods," including cheesesteaks, John's Water Ice, and soft pretzels. The ambassador even jumped behind the counter to make cheesesteaks for guests during the celebration.Photo: Ashley FraserThere was brief programming where the Marine Corps color guard and drill team performed.Photo: Ashley Fraser

ESM’s president and CEO Scott Mirkin sat down with BizBash, and detailed what it takes to pull off such a high-profile extravaganza. To start, Mirkin noted that it was important to Ambassador Cohen that his staff get a break over the four-day weekend, and so the team chose to host the celebration the weekend before—on June 24.

That evening, the official residence of the United States Ambassador to Canada—known as the Lornado—welcomed 2,000 guests. “Decor was subtle,” Mirkin said, explaining that “red, white, and blue linens” and “centerpieces with the two country’s flags” complemented the Lornado’s already breathtaking, early-1900s architecture and 12 acres of surrounding scenery. Mirkin added that the Lornado’s front lawn also already features “25-plus different variations of the U.S. flag from the time it was invented ... showing every time a star was added for a new state.”Guests on the invite-only list dressed in red, white, and blue, and two ladies took it a step further with American and Canadian nail designs.Photo: Ashley Fraser

But the real standout? “Authentic Philly foods,” the ambassador said, noting that it was important cheesesteaks, water ice, and soft pretzels were on the menu in order to “bring that celebratory spirit to Ottawa.” So important, in fact, that Mirkin and his team imported rolls from Philly, since they’re such an important component of the sandwich.

“At four o’clock in the morning, a freezer truck went and picked up fresh bread and made its way across the border,” Mirkin detailed, adding that the truck also made pit stops to get ingredients from South Philly’s famed John’s Water Ice as well, leaving just enough time to arrive at the ambassador’s residence by 2 p.m.

Mirkin emphasized that “folks really enjoyed their food, and it was a big part of the guest experience,” adding that the menu played an important role not only in highlighting the importance of Philadelphia in American history but also in provoking nostalgia for Ambassador Cohen. Mirkin said that seeing the ambassador go behind the cheesesteak counter and “crank out sandwiches for everyone in line” was a highlight. Scott Mirkin of ESM Productions, the full-service event production company behind the event, said that "decor was minimal," but the two nations' flags were everywhere—from the Lornado's landscaping, to the centerpieces, and even on cupcakes.Photo: Ashley Fraser

And to accompany the 15 different open bars, 17 small and medium Canadian restaurants were also on-site, which Ambassador Cohen was adamant about supporting as they recover from the pandemic, Mirkin noted.

“We didn’t ask for donations; we paid those restaurants,” he said, attributing that to “the support of many, many sponsors who were able to underwrite this event.”

Ambassador Cohen echoed the sentiment, saying that he “would like to continue this tradition next year.” He added: “It is a personal priority for me and for the entire Mission Canada team as we elevate SMEs [small- and medium-sized enterprises] in Canada.”

And although a celebration of the birth of American independence, Ambassador Cohen ensured that the evening was just as much a “celebration of the special relationship between the United States and Canada.” Cue Gritty, the Philadelphia Flyers’ mascot, who was spotted around the Lornado taking photos with guests and their children, “since Canadians are passionate about hockey,” the ambassador said. 

And to wrap up the Independence Day celebration, which the ambassador said was especially important this year “as we emerge from the pandemic,” Kathy Sledge of Sister Sledge—a Philadelphia-born and raised rock star—performed her famed, timeless hit “We Are Family.” The song “echoed a message of unity that I often deliver in my own speeches,” Ambassador Cohen added.

Looking for more Fourth of July-themed event inspiration? Consider this list of patriotic party offerings!In an ode to both America and Canada, Gritty, the Philadelphia Flyers’ mascot, was in attendance "since Canadians are passionate about hockey," the ambassador said.Photo: Ashley FraserTo accompany the 15 different open bars, 17 small and medium Canadian restaurants were also on-site and were paid for their contributions, which Ambassador Cohen was adamant about doing while they recover from the pandemic, Mirkin noted.Photo: Ashley Fraser