"Canadians across the
country and around the world show their pride in their history, culture and
achievements. It’s been a day of celebration, where many festivities are held
across the country, since 1868.
Have you ever wondered about the origins of Canada Day? Here’s the history, courtesy of the Government of Canada:
The Creation of Canada Day
Have you ever wondered about the origins of Canada Day? Here’s the history, courtesy of the Government of Canada:
The Creation of Canada Day
July 1,
1867:
The British North America Act (today known as
the Constitution Act, 1867) created
Canada.
June 20,
1868:
Governor General Lord Monck signs a proclamation that requests all
Her Majesty’s subjects across Canada to celebrate July 1.
1879: A federal law makes
July 1 a statutory holiday as the “anniversary of Confederation,” which is later
called “Dominion Day.”
October 27,
1982:
July 1, “Dominion Day” officially becomes Canada Day.
The Celebrations Start
The Celebrations Start
July 1,
1917:
The 50th anniversary of Confederation. The Parliament buildings, under
construction, are dedicated to the Fathers of Confederation and to the courage
of Canadians who fought in Europe during the First World War.
July 1,
1927:
The 60th anniversary of Confederation. The Peace Tower Carillon is inaugurated.
The Governor General at the time, Viscount Willingdon, lays the cornerstone of the
Confederation Building on Wellington Street.
From 1958 to
1968:
The government organizes celebrations for Canada’s national holiday every year.
The Secretary of State of Canada is responsible for coordinating these
activities. A typical format includes a flag ceremony in the afternoon on the
lawns of Parliament Hill and a sunset ceremony in the evenings, followed by a
concert of military music and fireworks.
July 1,
1967:
The 100th anniversary of Confederation. Parliament Hill is the backdrop for a
high-profile ceremony, which includes the participation of Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II.
From 1968 to
1979 (with the exception
of 1976): A large multicultural celebration is presented on Parliament Hill.
This concert is broadcast on television across the country. The main
celebrations (called “Festival Canada”) are held in the National Capital Region
throughout the month of July. These celebrations include many cultural, artistic
and sport activities and involve the participation of various municipalities and
volunteer associations.
From 1980 to
1983:
A new format is developed. In addition to the festivities on Parliament Hill,
the national committee (the group tasked by the federal government to plan the
festivities for Canada’s national holiday) starts to encourage and financially
support the establishment of local celebrations across Canada. Start-up funding
is provided to support popular activities and performances organized by
volunteer groups in hundreds of communities. Interested organizations can make a
request to the Celebrate Canada program.
1981: Fireworks light up
the sky in 15 major Canadian cities, a tradition that continues
today.
1984: The National Capital
Commission (NCC) is given the mandate to organize Canada Day festivities in the
capital.
2010: Festivities on
Parliament Hill receive a royal treatment when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh join the festivities to celebrate
Canada’s 143rd anniversary.
2011: Their Royal
Highnesses Prince William and Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge,
participate in Canada Day festivities on Parliament Hill on the occasion of
Canada’s 144th anniversary.
2014: Canadian Heritage
organizes the 147th Canada Day celebrations. As we approach Canada’s 150th
anniversary in 2017, the government has given the Department the mandate to
organize Canada Day festivities in the capital"
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