When we close the books on 2016, it will surely go down as a year that was  "surreal"—which was also the word of the year according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary. Although 2016 was a year overshadowed by the American election, from the protractive campaign, its divisive climate and the ultimate outcome, regardless of your politics, it prompted discussions about real issues, including religion, race and women's rights. From other world events and tragedies, including the Syrian crisis and the death of Cuban leader Fidel Castro to incidents in our nation, such as the Fort McMurray wildfire and Gord Downie's reconciliation movement with aboriginals, here's a look back at some of the highlights and hardships from the year that was 2016.

January 
Ten days into 2016 brought news of the death of David Bowie, and a year where we lost too many music giants, including Prince, Leonard Cohen and George Michael.  
 
February  
Pope Francis meets with the head of the Russian Orthodox church – the first meeting of its kind in nearly 1,000 years. 
 
March 
Multiple coordinated attacks at a Brussel's airport and metro station by Islamic extremist resulted in hundreds of injuries and 32 deaths.  
 
April 
The death toll for the Syria's Civil War reaches an estimated 470,000 with legions of refugees continue to flee to neighbouring countries and Canada.   
 
May 
A wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alberta destroyed 2,400 homes and caused the largest evacuation in the province's history.  
 
June 
Following the Brexit referendum, the United Kingdom votes to leave the European Union. 
 
July 
Following a string of targeted attacks in France, a cargo truck drove into a crowd celebrating Bastille Day in Nice. 
 
August 
The Summer Olympics were held in Rio de Janiero, Brazil and Canada stepped up to the podium 22 times.  
 
September 
The Royal Tour to Canada by Will and Kate along with their kids George and Charlotte, was their first visit together as a family of four. 
 
October 
The most-buzzed about new couple was definitely Prince Harry and adopted Torontonian, Meghan Markle, who was also the most-goggled actress of 2016.  
 
November  
On November 8th, Donald Trump becomes the 58th American president.  
 
December 
Nine days after Cuban leader Fidel Castro passed away, his ashes were buried in Santiago de Cuba.