The National Day of the Canadian Confederation is celebrated every year on July 1st. Canada Day (formerly Dominion Day) is one of the most important holidays for Canadians and celebrates the nation's birth in 1867, when Canada broke away from British rule. It is a highly anticipated holiday and is usually celebrated with family reunions, food and entertainment. Here are some tips to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Canada Day!
Steps
Step 1. Wear patriotic clothes
This ranges from wearing a simple t-shirt with a maple leaf depicted to draping the Canadian flag over your shoulders. Be creative and show how proud you are of Canada by wearing red and white clothes! Here are some ideas for showing off Canadian colors:
- Dye your hair bright red using temporary spray dye or spray with a maple leaf stencil
- Wear a hat with the Canadian flag
- Wear pins or buttons that feature the flag of Canada
- Choose a temporary tattoo to do on a cheek or a manicure with Canadian colors
- Wear red and white clothes
Step 2. Depending on what your community has organized, join parades, attend concerts, and enjoy food
There are so many ways to have fun, from face painting to crowded shows by jugglers and magicians. Inquire online or in the local newspaper for more information.
Step 3. Consider visiting the capital
Ottawa throws a spectacular event around Parliament House, with activities throughout the day. You will be able to see aerobatic shows, concerts, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police musical parade, browse food stalls and much more; it's a day to remember forever, so book early, especially if you're coming from another country.
Step 4. Enjoy the Canada Air Force show
Search online to find out where the event takes place each year.
Step 5. Attend the Montreal Jazz Festival or the Calgary Stampede
Make sure you book early as these events are very popular and seats sell out quickly.
Step 6. Have an alfresco lunch with family and friends or go to town to enjoy some delicious multicultural food
Depending on the area you are in, here are some tips:
- Hot dogs and burgers
- French fries with gravy and cheese curd or try a newly invented dish called 'berry poutine'
- Fried bread dough with cinnamon and chilli (beaver tails)
- Lobster rolls or fried clams
- baklava
- Canadian flag themed cake or cupcake
- Cupcakes that look like beavers
- Anything that uses maple syrup, from lollipops to pancakes.
Step 7. Watch fireworks displays
Alternatively, plan to spend an evening enjoying a fireworks show in your area. Take the whole family with you and have fun with them.
Warnings
- Make sure the spray dye is really temporary, unless you want to have red and white hair for a long time!
- Don't go overboard with Canadian pride displays or it will make you look a little nutty.
- Don't throw fireworks into the house.
