“When families arrive in Canada, I’m often asked what unique holidays we celebrate, and the reasons behind them. “Canada Day” is one of the biggest holidays for Canadians. In this blog, I outline the origins of this statutory holiday, and provide some links to information about annual Canada Day celebrations.”

— Susan Hodges, Founder, New Roots Relocation

Canada Day History: Exploring Our Roots

The history of Canada Day is a rich and interesting one.

In the 1600s, Great Britain began acquiring territories in what is now Canada. This led to centuries of colonial activity, treaties, and shifting control, which continued until the mid-1800s.

Then in 1867 the British parliament passed “The British North American Act”, known today as the Constitution Act of 1867. This act joined four British colonies (now Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario) into one state.

This newly self-governing state within the British Empire was named “The Dominion of Canada”.

On June 20th, 1868, Lord Monck (Canada’s First Governor General) signed a proclamation requesting the celebration of the Dominion of Canada to be officially marked on July 1st.

When it was first established, Dominion Day provided an important opportunity for Canadians to celebrate their national identity, independent of the British Empire.

A key example of this is during World War I, when Canadian servicemen stationed in the U.K. introduced their international compatriots to activities such as log rolling exhibitions and baseball games as a way to demonstrate their national pride.

Due to the war, plans to hold a huge event celebrating the 50th anniversary of Dominion Day in 1917 were postponed until the Diamond Jubilee on July 1st 1927. This significant celebration marked the 60th anniversary of the Confederation.

Why were these events so important? Because they were the first major federally sponsored Dominion Day activities. This milestone event marked a turning point for the Canada Day holiday, and from this point on the celebrations continued to grow bigger each year.

In 1958 Prime Minister John Diefenbaker introduced annual Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill including fireworks, formal ceremonies and musical performances.

Then in 1967 Canada celebrated its Centennial Year and this sparked another huge outpouring of national pride and interest in the Canada Day holiday.

This anniversary of confederation was called “Dominion Day” until October 27, 1982, when it was officially changed to “Canada Day.” This means that although the history of Canada Day is vast, the day itself is technically only 43 years old.

Canadians continue to celebrate Canada Day on July 1st every year. And now you can celebrate too!

Why Do We Celebrate Canada Day?

Canada Day is a nationwide holiday dedicated to celebrating the beautiful country of Canada.

This day is seen as an opportunity to show pride in being Canadian and in our multicultural country, as well as to reflect on what it means to be Canadian.

Communities from coast to coast celebrate with outdoor events such as parades, festivals, concerts, barbecues, park picnics and of course fireworks. Those celebrating often carry a flag or dress in the Canadian flag colours of red and white.

‍Canada Day is also a time for Canadians to reflect on the true history of our country, including the tragic history and treatment of Canada’s Indigenous people.

This is something that is also brought into focus on September 30th, which marks the "National Day for Truth and Reconciliation" across Canada. I encourage you to learn more about this national day and the history of residential schools.

When is National Canada Day?

Canada Day is celebrated every year on July 1st. Canada Day 2025 will take place on Tuesday July 1st.

Upcoming dates are:

2026: Wednesday, July 1st
2027: Thursday, July 1st
2028: Saturday, July 1st

Is Canada Day a Stat Holiday?

The simple answer is yes! Canada Day is a federal statutory holiday in Canada, which means that it is a day off for most businesses and is observed across the whole country.

Stat holidays in Canada are legally mandated holidays where employees are generally entitled to a paid day off. If employees are asked to work on Canada Day, they may receive holiday pay or additional compensation as a result.

So look forward to a well-deserved day off work to celebrate all things Canada!

Events on Canada Day: Your Annual Guide

You’ll find Canada Day celebrations taking place across the country. There’s no shortage of things to do!

On July 1st, Parks Canada offers free admission to national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas to celebrate Canada Day. Many provincial parks and local museums also have free admission. Check their websites before visiting though, as some museums may choose to close!

Fireworks displays can be found in local communities across every province.

Larger displays take place annually at Parliament Hill (Ottawa), Ashbridge’s Bay (Toronto), Old Port (Montreal), and the Halifax-Dartmouth Waterfront. These are well worth travelling for!

Some of the best and most exciting Canada Day celebrations take place in Canada’s biggest cities.

The City of Toronto, for example, hosts a diverse array of Canada Day celebrations every year. Their Canada Day 2025 celebrations are expected to be bigger and better than ever. Event details are announced every year in June.
As Canada’s Capital Region, Ottawa’s Canada Day celebrations are also nothing short of spectacular. Whether with family or friends, the city’s epic celebrations showcase Canada’s diversity, music and culture.

Wondering what events will be happening near you? Local city and town websites are the best sources to find out what will be happening in your community and to get a schedule of events.

Celebrate Across Canada

Canada Day is a wonderful celebration of the country’s land, diversity, culture, and people. July 1st is an opportunity for communities to come together nationwide.

Wherever you are across the country, let 2025 be the year you join the Canada Day celebrations!

Find Canada Day events near you!