Columbus Day

Columbus Day History

Columbus Day is celebrated to honor Christopher Columbus, the famed Italian explorer who embarked upon his voyage to the Americas in 1492. This day recognizes his achievements and acknowledges the impact of his expeditions on global history.

While Columbus Day is primarily associated with the United States, the explorer's influence on Canadian history is also significant. The arrival of Europeans on the American continent is considered a turning point in history that led to the eventual colonization and establishment of what is now Canada. Columbus's voyages have been credited with paving the way for the French and British explorers who later settled in Canadian territory, thus shaping the country's identity as it is known today.

In Canada, Columbus Day is not a national public holiday like in the United States, but it is acknowledged and observed in various ways across the nation. Many Italian-Canadian communities host festivities and events to celebrate and honor their heritage and Columbus's contributions. These local observances may include parades, feasts, and cultural performances that showcase the proud history and traditions of Italian-Canadians. Columbus Day is celebrated on the second Monday of October, although specific dates and events may vary across different communities within Canada.

Columbus Day facts

• Christopher Columbus' first settlement on Hispaniola Island was called Villa de Navidad (Christmas Town)
• In 1971, the official holiday was moved to the second Monday in October in order to give workers in the US a long weekend. This was part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.
• The practice of celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada can be traced back to 1578, when an explorer named Martin Frobisher from England held a ceremony in what is now known as Newfoundland to give thanks for having survived the long journey. This event is considered the first Thanksgiving celebration in North America, even before the Pilgrims landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
• The indigenous peoples in Canada have a history thousands of years old. They had complex social systems and various forms of government architecture, before the arrival of Europeans.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Columbus Day

Top things to do in Canada for Columbus Day

• Eat some good Italian food.
• Watch a parade.
• October is usually a beautiful time of year in Canada, and people may take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities. Go for a hike, have a picnic, visit parks or scenic spots, and appreciate the fall foliage.
• Reflect the spirit of appreciation and gratitude by volunteering for community service. Many organizations may host events or initiatives dedicated to giving back to the community over the Columbus Day weekend.