Canada Day

Canada Day History

Canada Day celebrates the anniversary of Canadian Confederation. This observance marks the date when the Constitution Act, 1867, came into effect, uniting the three separate colonies of Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick into a single dominion within the British Empire. Canada Day serves as an opportunity for citizens across the country to take pride in their heritage, promote unity, and reflect on the history, culture, and achievements of their nation.

Canada Day has its roots in the nineteenth century, when the British North America Act was enacted on July 1, 1867. Initially referred to as Dominion Day, the anniversary was renamed "Canada Day" in 1982 to better reflect the growth of Canadian identity and pride. Throughout the years, the holiday has evolved into a significant occasion for celebrating the nation's accomplishments and for sharing in the diverse cultural heritage of Canadians from coast to coast.

On Canada Day, communities across the country host both small and large-scale events, such as parades, fireworks displays, concerts, cultural showcases, and family gatherings. Many Canadians choose to spend the day enjoying outdoor activities with friends and family, partaking in civic celebrations, and attending various festivities. Canada Day is annually observed on July 1st, except when it coincides with a Sunday, in which case the holiday is officially noted on July 2nd.

Top facts & quotes 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.
• On July 1, 1980, O Canada was named the official national anthem.
• In a world darkened by ethnic conflicts that tear nations apart, Canada stands as a model of how people of different cultures can live and work together in peace, prosperity, and mutual respect. - Bill Clinton
• Canada has never been a melting-pot; more like a tossed salad. - Arnold Edinborough

In the News and Trending in Canada for Canada Day

Top things to do for Canada Day in Canada

• 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 the large firework displays in Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa. Ottawa's fireworks are located right near the Canadian Parliament and can be watched on boats in the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal.
• Attend a local parade in your home town.