You can say that Canada is one of the happiest countries in the world. Firstly, a lot of the people here are nice, pleasant, and kind, very much living up to the stereotype. Secondly, since it is a diverse country, the many cultures and traditions here are all celebrated and respected. Though there are times in which all Canadians, no matter their origins, celebrate all together. These are Canada's public holidays. On any of these days, the country takes a pause, remembering and venerating what makes these days so special. Here are some you might like to know about.
Family Day (Every February)
Though it's not exactly a nation-wide holiday, a good many Canadian provinces celebrate 'Family Day' every February. Held on the month's third Monday, it's a special holiday that reminds the people of this country, particularly those in the regions that do celebrate the holiday, about their origins, heritage, and what their communities in the country have gone through to get to where they are now. In the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, the holiday is simply referred to as 'Family Day.' While in Manitoba, it's 'Louis Riel Day.' In Nova Scotia, it's 'Nova Scotia Heritage Day.' And in Prince Edward Island, it's 'Islander Day.'
Victoria Day (Every May)
At the time of the Canadian Confederation, Queen Victoria was the reigning monarch of the UK and of the entire British Commonwealth. That time is important in Canadian history as it was the first period in which the country was on its way to becoming its own separate state. So to remember that significant time, Canadian celebrate Victoria Day on the Monday right before May 24. The date in question is Queen Victoria's birthday. On the other hand, many French-speaking Canadians celebrate National Patriots' Day on this day instead, paying tribute to the national French-Canadian hero, Adam Dollard des Ormeaux.
Canada Day (July 1)
Of course, like any other country, from
France to
the US and every nation in between, Canada also has its own national holiday. And theirs is on July 1. Called 'Canada Day,' it pays tribute to the time the country established its dominion status, becoming its own separate state. It's perhaps the biggest non-religious holiday in the country after Labor Day, and definitely one of the most celebratory. On this day, from the
neighborhood of Vancouver to the mountains of Whistler, the entire country goes all out in celebrating what it means to be a Canadian.
August Civic Holiday (First Monday of August)
Even though not all of the country observes it, the Civic Holiday in August is something most Canadians look forward to. Generally, it's simply a free day where most
Canadian banks, public & private schools, as well as government offices, remain closed and the people get a much-deserved day off. But since it's not a public holiday instituted by the federal government, every Canadian province has its own way of observing it. Saskatchewan, for instance, refers to it as 'Saskatchewan Day.' The province of Alberta, on the other hand, named is 'Heritage Day' in order to celebrate the culture and heritage of the Albertans.
Canadian Thanksgiving (Every October)
You didn't know that Canada has its own 'Thanksgiving Day,' did you? Though its American counterpart is a lot more commercially known and popular, Canadian Thanksgiving is still pretty significant to Canadians. For one thing, they celebrate it every second Monday of October, not in November when the American Thanksgiving is held. And its origin doesn't necessarily have a famous story. Canadian Thanksgiving closes the year's harvest season and the holiday is how the people give thanks for a plentiful harvest. What is similar about both countries' Thanksgiving Days is that both include a grand feast of seasonal dishes and fruits.
Remembrance Day (November 11)
While in Europe, be it in Belgium, Germany, or France, they celebrate 'Armistice Day,' here in Canada, it's referred to as 'Remembrance Day.' As many Canadians volunteered to aid the Allied Forces during World War II, this day remembers the men and women who sacrificed their lives. It's a more solemn holiday than celebratory, with many families whose relatives were among the heroes of the war pay tribute to the fallen. Though you still might see a lot of people observing it in their own ways, it's still an important day to remind Canadians of the sacrifices that were made to defend liberty in this country and in the world.
Boxing Day (December 26)
Yep! It's not just the UK that celebrates 'Boxing Day,' Canada does too! It's a special holiday held every December 26, mostly as another free day to follow up Christmas Day. Though it has no religious significance, many Canadians still hear mass or attend special prayer services on this day. But right after? It's celebrations left and right! Parties, soirees, the whole holiday big bang, and more! And, of course, just like in the UK, there are the many 'After Christmas' sales in the malls and shopping districts too! To say that this day is lively is an understatement!
Part of what makes Canada so pleasant are its holidays. These are days of the year in which Canadians take a step back, spend time with family, have a good time, and remember their culture, heritage, and more! You'll definitely want to celebrate with them when you're here!
Wherever you are in Canada during any of these holidays, here's to hoping you're celebrating in a
luxury home!
