In North America, when you think of fireworks, barbecues and parades during July your mind may go straight to Independence Day. However, the 4th of July isn’t North America’s only major summer holiday! Head a little further north to Canada around the 1st of July and get ready for some massive celebrations and a variety of Canada Day activities! What is Canada Day, you ask? Expat Explore is here to guide you through some Canada Day traditions, plus some Canada Day ideas if you wish to celebrate along!
Canada Day things to do, eat and explore to celebrate:
What is Canada Day and why is it celebrated?
Canada Day is the national day of Canada! It celebrates the anniversary of the Constitution Act of 1867. This act consolidated the territories of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and the Province of Canada (which was the area now known as Ontario and Quebec) into one nation; Canada! It is a celebration of unity that many Canadians describe fondly as “Canada’s birthday”. Like any birthday festivity, it’s a celebration of everything that makes Canada unique. Canada Day takes place annually on the 1st of July. It’s a public holiday in Canada and therefore many workplaces will be closed. Should the 1st fall over a weekend, the following Monday will be taken off.
Where is Canada Day celebrated?
Well, obviously, in Canada! The best place to celebrate is in Canada’s capital city Ottawa. The celebrations in 2024 promise to be of epic proportions as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force. 2024 marks the 157th anniversary of Canada Day. Visitors can look forward to a full line-up, including live acts from top Canadian performers, fireworks and plenty of family-friendly activities. Also, don’t miss out on the Royal Canadian Air Force Pipes and Drums performance on Parliament Hill. While Canada may be known for its icy winter temperatures, Ottawa can actually get pretty balmy in summer. July is the perfect time to visit and make the most of its beautiful, sunny days.
Every other Canadian city also holds events and celebrations. Wherever you are in Canada over this period, you’ll certainly see many concerts, parades and homes decorated in red and white in honour of the day. However, the Great White North isn’t the only place that celebrates Canada Day. Many expat Canadian communities hold celebrations in other countries. For example, in London, United Kingdom, the Canadian Armed Forces host a large event at Trafalgar Square.
Related: Visit Ottawa, Quebec and Toronto when you embark on Expat Explore’s Eastern USA and Canada Escape!
How is Canada Day celebrated?
Canadians tend to be very patriotic and showcase this national pride through red and white attire on Canada Day. Anything that displays the Canadian flag is a welcome addition to a Canada Day outfit. Wave a flag, wear a pin or a hat and let that maple leaf fly! Some go as far as to spray their hair or paint their faces red and white. Barbecues are usually held at home and are a great way to spend quality time with friends and family. On a larger scale, parades, concerts and other events are held all over the country.
What food is eaten on Canada Day?
Canada Day’s food traditions are just as important to celebrate. You simply cannot celebrate Canada Day without having Canada’s national dish: poutine! A simple yet delicious and indulgent dish of French fries, gravy and cheese curds, poutine is the quintessential Canadian dish. Other must-try Canadian dishes include beaver tails, which are sweet fried dough with a variety of toppings, and lobster rolls. Canada is home to incredible, fresh seafood and local produce. Most importantly, maple syrup can and should be eaten as much as possible in Canada! Canada’s love for maple syrup doesn’t stop at pancakes; you’ll find it in cookies, on burgers, bacon… everything!
Eat all of these delicious Canadian treats in addition to a good old-fashioned barbecue to celebrate Canada Day. Friends and family gather around the grill, share stories and spend quality time together. Many restaurants will also offer Canada Day specials if you prefer to have someone else do the cooking for you!
Venture to the Great White North and celebrate all these Canada Day traditions with Expat Explore’s Eastern USA and Canada Escape. Why not add three days in New York to your North American adventure?