Why Do Canadians Celebrate Canada Day?

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.

Canada Day History: Exploring Our Roots

Way back in the 1600’s, Great Britain began acquiring territories in what is now Canada.  In 1867 British parliament passed The British North American Act, known today as the Constitution Act of 1867, which joined four of the British colonies (now Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario).  This newly self-governing state within the British Empire was named “The Dominion of Canada”.  

On June 20th, 1868, the Governor General, Lord Monck signed a proclamation requesting all Her Majesty Queen Victoria’s subjects across Canada to celebrate on July 1st.  This anniversary of confederation was called “Dominion Day” until October 27, 1982, when it was officially changed to “Canada Day.”

Why Do We Celebrate Canada Day?

Canada Day is a nation-wide holiday dedicated to celebrating the beautiful country of Canada. This day is an opportunity to show pride in being Canadian and in our multicultural country, and 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.  September 30th 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.

• 2024: Monday, July 1st
• 2025: Tuesday, July 1st
• 2026: Wednesday, July 1st

Events on Canada Day: Your Annual Guide

Throughout the entire country there is no shortage of things to do for Canada Day.

• On July 1st, Parks Canada offers free admission to national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas. Many provincial parks and local museums also have free admission but be sure to check their websites before visiting!
• Fireworks displays can be found in local communities across your province, so be sure to check your town/city website.  Larger displays take place annually at Parliament Hill (Ottawa), Ashbridge’s Bay (Toronto), Old Port (Montreal), and the Halifax-Dartmouth Waterfront.

Local city/town websites are the best sources to find out what will be happening in your community and to get a schedule of events. The lists below highlight the larger centers in Ontario and Nova Scotia - check them out and find somewhere to celebrate Canada Day annually in your local community!

Toronto Canada Day Celebrations

The City of Toronto hosts a diverse array of Canada celebrations every year. 

The city provides information for all the local Canada Day festivals & events here: City of Toronto - Canada Day

• Event details are announced every year in June.
• Alternatively, you can sign up for the Celebrate Toronto eNewsletter to receive email updates about Canada Day, as well as other city-run events!  

East York Toronto Canada Day Festival

The East York Toronto Canada Day Festival holds the longest-running event of its kind in the city. The festival begins in the morning with a famous Canada Day parade, followed by an artisan market, food vendors, entertainment, children’s activities, and more in Stan Wadlow Park, and closes with a dazzling fireworks display.

Mississauga Canada Day Together Festival

If you’re looking to celebrate Canada Day outside the big city, the Mississauga Canada Day Together Festival is a great option! This festival takes place in Friendship Community Park (formerly Churchill Meadows) with live entertainment, a wide variety of food vendors, the TogetherFest Kids Zone, a Canada Day “Selfie-Spot”, and a spectacular fireworks display!

Canada Day Celebrations in Ottawa

As Canada’s Capital Region, Ottawa’s Canada Day celebrations are nothing short of spectacular. Whether with family or friends, the city’s epic celebrations showcase Canada’s diversity, music and culture. 

• Visit the Government of Canada’s Canada Day website for everything you need to know about celebrating Canada Day in Ottawa!
• You can also check out the Canada Day events in Canada’s Capital Region page for a full list of events.

Canada Day Halifax

• Visit Halifax Kana’ta Canada Day for everything you need to know about celebrating Canada Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
• You can also find family-friendly Canada Day events at Family Fun Halifax!

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, join in Canada Day celebrations! 

Visit this link to find Canada Day events near you: Celebrate Across Canada