Canada Day holds equal significance for Canadian citizens similar to what 4th July holds for their North American neighbours, i.e. United States of America. Known in United States as ‘The Independence day’. The day when United States was declared a sovereign nation, i.e. 4th July 1776, and the declaration of Independence was made officially to the public by Colonel John Nixon on 8th July 1776. Similarly, it is declared all over the country as a national holiday as the Canadians from one corner to the other as well as globally, celebrate the big day. Hence, while they give respect to the maple leaf and the Canadian flag, as well as to the great country’s national pride.
CANADA DAY DECLARED AN OFFICIAL HOLIDAY- WHEN & HOW?
Canada declared the day, i.e. 1st July as an official holiday on 27th October 1982, and was known as Canada Day, instead of being called Canada’s Independence Day. This portrays the unique and distinguished identity of the country that is different from their neighbours United States of America as Americans call their day as ‘The Independence Day’. Prior to 27th October 1982, the day was celebrated as Dominion Day. Furthermore, Dominion Day was declared first a public holiday back in 1879.
Since being declared as Canada Day in October 1982, the day holds vital importance for Canadians not only in Canada but also all across the world. This is also due to the rising significance of the North American country in the whole world. Especially, since 1982 when migrations to the great land started to take place at a faster pace.
IS 1st JULY KNOWN AS CANADA’S OFFICIAL BIRTHDAY?
The first of July is declared officially as Canada Day. However, to say that the next 1st July is Canada’s birthday might not be exactly true. Hence, officially July 1 marks the anniversary of confederation. That is the day The British North America (BNA) Act came into effect in 1867, and the Dominion of Canada was created. In this ACT only some parts of the country were included. While the Indigenous Canadians had no say in the decision. The ACT known as BNA Act meant that parts of the country were no longer a British colony or a part of Britain. Full Canadian independence came on 17th April 1982, the day that Canada’s Constitution was repatriated. Technically speaking 17th April 1982 can be considered as Canada’s Independence Day. However, there is no such date declared as Independence Day, apart from 1st July which is celebrated nationally and globally as Canada Day.
HOW THE CANADA DAY IS CELEBRATED COMMONLY?
In Canada, the day is celebrated with huge passion and compassion for Canada. This is truly obvious and significant in most parts of the country as Canadians wish & pray for their respectable nation. This holds sentiments of patriotism for their nation and her national pride. In school the summer has already started so it is virtually the start of summer holidays for those studying in schools or teaching. Most of the people celebrate at home, while many Canadians celebrate their country’s most prominent holidays on vacations. In the French speaking province Quebec, the emphasis is lesser. Significantly, due to the recent and higher importance of Saint Jean-Baptiste Day, i.e. on June 24th.
Some Canadians, especially the Indigenous people, i.e. Inuit raise questions on Canada’s equality and prosperity enjoyed by many Canadians. Thus, these are the Canadians for whom Canada Day is just yet another public holiday. This is vitally as they are less emotionally involved with the big day.
The prime celebrations of Canada Day takes place in Ottawa. The city which is the Federal Capital and is celebrated on the vast lawns of Parliament Hill. The place is capable enough to hold 475,000 people. The show starts in the morning and with a break in afternoon, the people come back in evening, while the show continues till evening. It holds tributes, awards and recognition for honourable people in Canada. Furthermore, highlights their importance and contributions for the great country.
THE ROYAL TREATMENT OF THE ‘CANADA DAY’:
In the past, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Queen of United Kingdom & Canada, and mother of Prince Charles, along with Lady Diana and Prince Charles himself have celebrated the Royal Canadian Day on 1st July in Canada. Lady Diana who died of an accident in 1997 in Paris, was born on the same day. Furthermore, celebrated her birthday along with The ‘Canada Day’.
However, very recently The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended the Parliament Hill celebrations in 2011. Soon after they got married to each other. All the Royals mentioned also gave speeches apart from marking their Royal attendances.
CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS IN CURRENT TIMES OF PANDEMIC COVID-19:
Canada Day will be celebrated on 1st July 2021 as an official holiday in Canada. This is in the middle of COVID-19, the Pandemic that has been a cause of a series of lock downs. On top of this, the global devastation and is currently in the third phase. The upcoming Canada Day holds huge importance for Canadians. This is mainly due to the character & the spirit that they have demonstrated to fight the pandemic with consistency and resilience.
Thus, Canada is the second largest country in the world, and is in the list of the most happiest countries. Primarily, the nation has emerged globally as one of the best countries to live, study and work. Also holds rights for all irrespective of colour, caste or creed.