Did you know?
How Canada Day Got Its Start
Most Canadians know that Canada Day is celebrated on July 1, but did you know the holiday wasn’t always called Canada Day?
On July 1, 1867, the British North America Act came into effect, officially creating the Dominion of Canada. The new country originally consisted of four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
For more than 100 years, July 1 was known as Dominion Day. It wasn’t until 1982 that the holiday was officially renamed Canada Day following the patriation of Canada’s Constitution.
Canada Day is now celebrated from coast to coast with fireworks, festivals, concerts, community events and family gatherings. It is a day to reflect on Canada’s history, celebrate its diversity and appreciate the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy.
A few Canadian facts:
• Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area.
• Canada has the longest coastline of any country in the world.
• More than 200 languages are spoken across Canada.
• The maple leaf became Canada’s official national flag symbol in 1965.
• O Canada became Canada’s official national anthem in 1980.
Whether you’re enjoying fireworks, attending a community event or spending time with family and friends, Canada Day is an opportunity to celebrate what makes Canada one of the best places in the world to live.
Happy Canada Day!