Celebrating Canada Day: Our History and Traditions

Today, Canada Day is a statutory holiday that celebrates the national day of Canada, or as some call it Canada's birthday. Although we gather together each year to celebrate this day, have you wondered why Canadians celebrate on July 1st? Or what event we're celebrating? Here's why Canadians celebrate Canada Day today. 

The History

Canada Day celebrates the beginning of the Constitution Act, 1867, originally called the British North America Act, 1867. On July 1, 1867, three separate colonies, the Province of Canada, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, united into a single Dominion called Canada.

The holiday was first called Dominion Day and was incorporated as a holiday in 1879, but it wasn’t popular with Canadians until 1917. A Bill was put forth in 1946 to rename Dominion Day, but arguments on the new name stalled the bill. The name Canada Day was formally adopted in 1962.  

How Can You Celebrate Canada Day in 2020?

There are many different ways in which you can celebrate Canada Day! Since we're all staying at home for Canada Day 2020, check out these alternatives to traditional celebrations:

• The Canada Day Daytime Show (1-2PM) and Evening Show (8PM and later)
• Watch the virtual fireworks with an augmented reality feature for mobile phones
• Check out your city's virtual events online
• Have a Canada Day themed picnic with red foods
• Watch live performances at your own home or enjoy the concerts, parade, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Musical Ride are all televised.

Whatever you choose to do, it's still a great day to enjoy the day off!