Canada Day

Canada Day, or Fête du Canada in French, is celebrated on July 1st every year. The event commemorates the enactment of the British North America Act (now known as the Constitution Act) which unified the colonies of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and the Province of Canada into a single country on July 1st, 1867. 

The day used to be referred to as Dominion Day but was renamed Canada Day in 1982, when the country claimed full control over its own constitution from the UK. 

Across Canada, the day is a national holiday, celebrated with parades and parties. It's not as focused on patriotism as the American July 4th activities, but there are fireworks and a festive feeling prevails.  

Join in with the celebrations

If you are lucky enough to be in Canada on July 1st, make sure you join in the fun. Events ranging from demonstrations of Native American music to firework displays are planned; go to www.canada-day.ca to discover what's on in Canada's major cities.

Whilst the focal point of celebrations is the country's capital, Ottawa, Canadians can also find celebrations across the country and the world.

London hosts one of the largest celebrations outside of Canada, with a whole day of festivities taking place at Trafalgar Square. This year's highlights include a pancake breakfast, a hockey game and music from Canadian exports including Our Lady Peace and Kid Koala. See www.canadadaylondon.com for more information. 

Over 100 parties will also take places across the USA - see www.canadadayacrossamerica.com for details.

Happy birthday, Canada!

For more information on Canada's history click here or buy one of our Canada travel guides.