Canada Day is an annual celebration that is marked on July 1 with great fanfare across Canada. The day marks the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation which occurred on July 1, 1867, with the passing of the British North America Act, 1867. Following this, the three separate colonies of the United Canadas, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick were united into a single dominion within the British Empire called Canada. The day is a national holiday in Canada, where Canadians celebrate their history, culture, and achievements. Canada Day was formally known as Dominion Day. It was renamed in 1982, the same year that the Canadian constitution was patriated by the Canada Act, 1982. In this article let’s know more about the history and significance of the day. Canada Day 2024 Fireworks: From Toronto to Niagara Falls, Best Places To Watch Fireworks Display Online To Celebrate Fête Du Canada.

Canada Day History

Canada Day is observed on July 1 under the federal Holidays Act, unless that date falls on a Sunday, in which case July 2 is the statutory holiday. The enactment of the British North America Act, 1867, now known as the Constitution Act, 1867, which confederated Canada, was celebrated on July 1, 1867, with the ringing of the bells at the Cathedral Church of St James in Toronto. Later, on June 20 of the following year, Governor General the Viscount Monck issued a royal proclamation asking for Canadians to celebrate the anniversary of Confederation. However, the holiday was not established statutorily until May 15, 1879, when it was designated as Dominion Day.

The holiday was officially renamed as a result of a private member's bill that was passed through the House of Commons on July 9, 1982. Only 12 members of parliament were present when the bill was taken up again, 8 fewer than the necessary quorum and met with stronger resistance in the Senate. However, the Senate did eventually pass the bill, regardless. With the granting of royal assent, the holiday's name was officially changed to Canada Day on October 27, 1982, and first celebrated under that name on July 1, 1983.

Canada Day Significance

Canada Day is an important day for Canadians and is celebrated with great fanfare, highlighting the history and diversity of Canada. Celebrations are held across the country with various festivities, including parades, fireworks, concerts, barbecues, and cultural displays. People display the Canadian flag, wear red and white clothing, and often paint their faces with maple leaves or other Canadian symbols to mark the historic day. Families and friends gather for outdoor barbecues and picnics, enjoying classic Canadian foods on this day.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 01, 2024 10:19 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).