UIG via Getty Images Vistors take in the view at Banff National Park in Alberta.

A lot of news happened in 2018. We're looking back at some of the biggest stories from the last 12 months. Also, we hope you have a great year ahead. Happy 2019.

OTTAWA — It's official: Canada's national parks will be permanently free for kids, the federal government announced Tuesday.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau noted in his speech tabling the Liberals' third budget that a free entrance program last year had proved so popular the government had chosen to extend it.

"Some parks were so busy they had to turn people away!," Morneau said, according to prepared remarks.

Admission to the country's national parks, marine conservation areas, and historic sites were free to everyone in 2017 to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday.

Morneau's announcement fulfills a promise made two years ago when the Liberals originally pledged to make national parks entry free for children 18 years and under starting in 2018.

At the time, the government had earmarked $83.3 million over five years to provide free admission for all Canadians. Adults are currently charged under $10 for entry on average to various parks and sites.