Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1, when Canadians show their pride in their history, culture, and achievements. July 1 has been a day of celebration since 1868, with festivities across the country. On July 1, 1867, the Constitution Act created Canada and on October 27, 1982, July 1 officially became Canada Day.
The Government of Canada notes the following details of Canada Day over the years:
From 1958 to 1968: the government organized celebrations for Canada’s national holiday every year. The Secretary of State of Canada was responsible for coordinating these activities. A typical format included 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.
From 1968 to 1979 (with the exception of 1976): a large multicultural celebration was presented on Parliament Hill. This concert was broadcast on television across the country. The main celebrations (called “Festival Canada”) were held in the National Capital Region throughout the month of July. These celebrations include many cultural, artistic, and sports activities and involved the participation of various municipalities and volunteer associations.From 1980 to 1983: a new format was 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) started to encourage and financially support the establishment of local celebrations across Canada. Start-up funding was provided to support popular activities and performances organized by volunteer groups in hundreds of communities. Interested organizations were to make a request to the Celebrate Canada program.
With Canada’s ties to the British monarchy, there were times when members of the Royal Family visited to join in the Canada Day celebrations:
July 1, 1967: The 100th anniversary of Confederation. Parliament Hill was the backdrop for a high-profile ceremony, which included the participation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
1981: Fireworks have lit up the sky in 15 major Canadian cities, a tradition that continues today (Canada).
2010: Festivities on Parliament Hill received a royal treatment when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh joined the festivities to celebrate Canada’s 143rd anniversary.
2011: Their Royal Highnesses Prince William and Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, participated in Canada Day festivities on Parliament Hill on the occasion of Canada’s 144th anniversary.
Government of Canada
2017: A wide range of activities from coast-to-coast-to-coast was held to mark the 150th Anniversary of Confederation. Attending Canada Day for the first time, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall joined in the festivities on Parliament Hill to mark this milestone anniversary with Canadians.
Burlington’s Canada Day celebrations and activities return in Spencer Smith Park on July 1 after COVID restrictions prevented this from happening for the last two years. This year’s event will start with an opening ceremony at 4 p.m. followed by evening entertainment on the main stage and the grand finale of a spectacular fireworks display over the lake at 10 p.m. The event will also feature food and marketplace vendors.
For early risers and active residents, a Canada Day run and yoga in the park will be held in the morning in Spencer Smith Park.
There are plenty of fun options for the family this Canada Day throughout the city, such as splash pads and pools. All nine of the city’s splash pad locations are open and always free.
Nelson Outdoor Pool and Splash Park and LaSalle Wading Pool are open for swimming on Canada Day (weather permitting). If you prefer to swim indoors, visit Angela Coughlan Pool. For times of swims at all locations, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
The City of Burlington notes that Canada Day is a great time to get outside, explore Burlington, and get active. The city is currently offering the Get Outside and Play Challenge, a challenge to complete 90 activities in 90 days, on now until Aug. 29, 2022. Prizes are being offered, see details on the city’s website here.
Happy Canada Day, everyone!
Sources:
Government of Canada. History of Canada Day. Url: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/canada-day-history.html (accessed June 26, 2022).
