Canada's new Governor General is coming to British Columbia for her first official visit next week -- from Tuesday through Thursday.
Her Excellency the Right Hon. Julie Payette will be welcomed to Government House next Tuesday by BC's Lieutenant-Governor Judith Guichon. Guichon will co-host a reception with Premier John Horgan that evening.
The official welcoming ceremony for Payette will take place on the same day at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria at 2 p.m. and the public is invited to attend.
The Premier will greet the Governor General on the east driveway, where there will be a flower presentation, followed by a traditional First Nations welcome.
The Naden Band will also be on hand, along with a 100-member guard of honour from CFB Esquimalt. And there will be a 21-gun salute by the 5th B.C. Field Regiment Royal Canadian Artillery.
The parties will then move indoors where Payette will meet with veterans and sign B.C.'s distinguished visitor's book, before holding a private meeting with the Premier.
On Wednesday there will be a Presentation of Honours at Government House, where the Governor General will present honours to 45 remarkable Canadians being recognized for excellence, courage and exceptional dedication to service.
The visit will also include meetings with provincial officials, community members from around the province, and with members of the Royal Canadian Navy.