Canada Day, held annually on July 1, is celebrated by all Canadians and those who consider Canada their home. The Constitution Act, passed in 1867, united three separate Canadian territories into the modern-day country of Canada. In the year 2022, Canada celebrated its 155th birthday.
It's legal to take the day off work to celebrate Canada Day. Generally speaking, everyone is off during this day, as most places of commerce and educational establishments are closed.
Since it will occur on a Saturday in 2023, some establishments may choose to maintain their regular Saturday hours.
What is the History of Canada Day?
Dominion Day was Canada's official holiday until 1982. After that, it became known as Canada Day. In contrast to many other countries, Canada's past is not littered with numerous conflicts and bloodshed. The notion of a unified British North American colonial empire was debated during the middle of the nineteenth century.
The British North America Act, which established Canada as a separate nation, went into effect on July 1, 1867, following its passage by the British Parliament. Upper and Lower Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick were all included as parts of the dominion. The act established the provinces of Quebec and Ontario inside Canada and made provisions for the eventual incorporation of other colonies into the country. It was in this manner that the modern nation of Canada was established. Before 1982, Canada was governed under the British North America Act.
Many Canadians still considered themselves British citizens in 1879, when Dominion Day was first established; thus, they didn't observe dominion day. When the confederation turned 50 years old in 1917, Dominion Day became more widely celebrated. Controversy in the House of Commons over the new name for Dominion Day halted the bill's passage after it was introduced in 1946.
There was a surge of national pride in Canada in the years leading up to the 100th anniversary of the country's founding in 1967. Citizens celebrated Canada Day long before the term was officially adopted in 1982.
How Do Canadians Celebrate Canada Day?
Numerous municipal administrations host various events, many of which take place in the open air. Some examples are fireworks displays, festivals, parades, concerts, carnivals, and breakfasts served to new Canadian citizens when they receive citizenship. There is typically a patriotic tone to the celebrations. The Canadian flag is prominently displayed, and many people sport red and white face paint to honor their country. The capital city of Canada, Ottawa, has some of the most joyous festivities.
Many residential leases in the Canadian province of Quebec begin on July 1 and run for 12 months. For this purpose, many Quebecers spend Canada Day relocating their belongings from one residence to another. "Moving Day" is a provincial holiday celebrated on Canada Day in this region.
July 1 is both Canada Day and Memorial Day in Newfoundland & Labrador. The Newfoundland Regiment suffered terrible casualties on the opening day of the Battle of the Somme during World War I, and this monument honors their sacrifice. The morning of July 1 is traditionally a solemn day in Newfoundland and Labrador. As a mark of respect, flags are lowered at half-staff and memorial ceremonies are held at cenotaphs (war memorials). Canada Day celebrations in the province occur in the afternoon, like those across the country.