Canada Day

Canada Day History

Canada Day celebrates the birth of the country, its vibrant culture, and unique heritage. It honors the signing of the Constitution Act, formerly known as the British North America Act, which united the colonies of Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick into a single dominion. The cherished event is marked with ceremonies, activities, and gatherings, which take place far and wide.

The origins of Canada Day date back to July 1, 1867, when the Constitution Act came into effect. Canadians of every background celebrate this momentous day, reinforcing the close, intertwined bond between Canada and Australia, both proud members of the Commonwealth. As a fellow Commonwealth nation, Australia shares a monarch, sporting rivalries, and strong military ties with Canada. These vital connections foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, making Canada Day a symbolic occasion that Australians can appreciate and embrace.

In Australia, Canada Day celebrations usually take place at various venues, where Canadians and Australians come together to participate in the festivities and strengthen their shared bonds. The gatherings often involve enjoying Canadian-themed food, drinks, and entertainment, while also showcasing Canadian art, music, and culture. Though the pandemic has shifted gatherings to be virtual, enthusiasm for Canada Day remains strong, and attendees enjoy the Canadian experience while celebrating with their friends down under. Canada Day takes place annually on the 1st of July, serving as a joyful reminder of the ties that bind these two great nations of the Commonwealth.

Top facts about Canada Day

• Although the Dominion of Canada began with 4 provinces (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia), it rapidly expanded in the years following Confederation. Manitoba and the Northwest Territories (NWT) joined in 1870, British Columbia in 1871, Prince Edward Island in 1873, the Arctic Islands joined the NWT in 1880, the Yukon in 1898, Alberta and Saskatchewan in 1905, and Newfoundland and Labrador in 1949. Finally, in 1999, the NWT were split in order to create the new territory of Nunavut.
• The Fathers of Confederation are the 36 men who represented British colonies at one or more of the Charlottetown, Quebec and London Conferences, and are regarded as the framers of the Canadian Constitution, leading the country to independence.
• Even after 1931, the British Parliament retained the power to amend Canada's constitution. It was not until the Canada Act of 1982, also known as the patriation of the constitution, that Canada finally got a fully separate legal system from Britain.
• Canada and Australia have a strong economic relationship, with both countries being part of important trade agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
• The Australian-Canadian Association, established in various Australian cities, is dedicated to promoting friendship and understanding between Canadians and Australians.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Canada Day

Top things to do for Canada Day in Australia

• Be sure to wear red and white and decorate yourself with as many maple leaves as possible.
• Most communities in Canada host a fireworks show to celebrate Canada Day. The largest displays are usually in larger cities like Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
• Canada Day is a great opportunity to explore the country's rich cultural heritage. Many of Canada's historic sites and national parks have special events to mark the holiday.
• Watch Canada: A People's History (2000). A Canadian documentary series that covers the history of the country from prehistoric times all the way to the end of the 20th century, including the path to independence.
• Hockey is a popular Canadian sport, and some Australian ice hockey teams or leagues may have games around the time of Canada Day. These games might be a great opportunity for Canadian expats and ice hockey fans to get together and celebrate.