The national holiday of the state level on July 1 is celebrated in Canada. On Canada Day / Fête du Canada, citizens of the country have an official day off and enjoy festive events. If the holiday falls on a Sunday, July 2 is declared a holiday, but the celebration still takes place on the first day.

History of Canada Day

The history of the celebration begins with the events of 1867, when the British North America Act was passed, thanks to which the three colonies united into a single country called Canada. Originally, the holiday was called Dominion Day. The anniversary of confederation was called for by Canadian Governor General Charles Stanley Monk in 1868. The status of the country’s day became an official holiday as early as 1879, but solemn ceremonies were not held even then, because Canadians still considered themselves British.

In 1958, the Canadian government began to manage the celebration of Dominion Day. At that time, solemn events were limited to the flag raising ceremony, salutes and a concert. Later, the Canada Festival was launched in Ottawa, and in the 80s of the last century, the country’s government began to distribute grants and financial assistance to cities that also celebrated Canada Day.

Today, Canadians celebrate their country’s birthday with zeal and solemnity – with ceremonies, parades, concerts, and outdoor performances.