CANADA DAY
July 1st, Canadian’s everywhere celebrate Canada Day. The day commemorates the day three provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Canada Province) became one country through the Constitution Act on July 1, 1867. Canadians honor their flag on February 15th.
While all the provinces and territories celebrate the national holiday, the day isn’t celebrated the same way across the nation. Most businesses close for the day and depending on the province, different celebrations take place. Much of the country will observe with summer-like festivities, including barbecues, fireworks, and concerts. However, unique to Quebec is a moving day attitude. Since lease agreements end on July 1st in Quebec, the holiday takes a back seat to those who don’t renew.
Around Canada
Calgary, Toronto, Winnipeg, Montreal, Vancouver, Victoria, and Saskatoon may be some of the most recognizable cities in Canada. Beyond its independence, Canada has many other things to celebrate. The country’s natural beauty is breathtaking. There are also amazing bays in New Brunswick, beaches on each of the coasts, and national parks throughout the country. Don’t miss any of these. If the nightlife interests you, Canada knows how to entertain, too. In the cities, you will find unmatched shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Of course, celebrations aren’t complete unless you include something delicious. While the backyard barbecues will do, don’t forget the specifically Canadian creations. At first, maple syrup may be the only thing to come to mind, but Canadians know there’s so much more. For example, the spicy Caesar challenges the Bloody Mary to a flavor test when it comes to beverages. Canadians also love poutine – crisp fries, fresh cheese curds, and gravy.
Lobster rolls fill the main course deliciously. While you might want to skip dessert, don’t. You’ll find your maple syrup in mouthwatering butter tarts. If you prefer pie, flapper pie with a mountain of meringue fits the bill.
HOW TO OBSERVE #CanadaDay
Grab a sparkler, a slice of pie, and a moving box. It’s Canada Day! Canadians, no matter where you are, celebrate! Sing “O’Canada” or attend a local event. Wear red and white while sharing your Canadian heritage.
Learn more about the evolution of Canada at Canada.ca.
Follow the day’s conversation by using #CanadaDay on social media.
CANADA DAY HISTORY
While Canadian’s have celebrated the birth of their country for over 100 years, the observance of the national holiday didn’t become official until 1982. Several events led up to its declaration.
On July 1, 1867, two of the Canadian colonies, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick divided into a wider British federation of four provinces to add Ontario and Quebec. The date is considered the initial recognition of Canada when the Constitution Act or the British North America Act was signed.
- June 20, 1868 – Governor General Lord Monck signs a proclamation that requests all Her Majesty’s subjects across Canada to celebrate July 1.
- May 15, 1879 – A federal law makes July 1 a statutory holiday as the “Anniversary of Confederation,” which is later called “Dominion Day.”
- October 27, 1982 – July 1, “Dominion Day” officially becomes “Canada Day.”