As the capital city, Ottawa plays a significant role in Canada's history, culture and diversity. Its heritage and geographical location account for it being officially bilingual, French and English. Gatineau, just across the Ottawa River in Quebec, is considered Ottawa's sister city. Ottawa's cosmopolitan character is evident in the blend of cultures found at busy Byward Market, teeming with restaurants & bars, shops and pubs. The city's most popular attraction is Parliament Hill and the Federal Parliament Buildings. Many national museums and galleries make their home here, and are in themselves cultural icons. The National Gallery and the Museum of Civilization are among the best known. There are plenty of parks in Ottawa, and the Rideau Canal is well used with 10 km (6 mi) of pathways around it. In the summer, the canal is popular with canoeists, and in the winter, it becomes the world's longest ice rink. Festivals abound throughout the year, including the acclaimed Winterlude celebration in February and the eye-catching Tulip Festival in May.