Canada Day: The History and Celebrations of July 1st

Learn about Canada Day, why it is celebrated on July 1st, and the traditions that mark this important national holiday.

July 1 is Canada Day — the national holiday celebrating the anniversary of Confederation. It is the most widely celebrated day in the Canadian calendar and a topic that appears on the citizenship test.

Why July 1?

On July 1, 1867, the British North America Act came into effect, creating the Dominion of Canada by uniting four colonies: Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. This event is known as Confederation.

Sir John A. Macdonald became the first Prime Minister, and Ottawa was the capital of the new nation.

The Name

Canada Day was not always called "Canada Day":

1867-1879: The anniversary was informally celebrated

1879-1982: Called "Dominion Day"

1982: Renamed "Canada Day" when the Constitution was patriated

How Canadians Celebrate

National Celebrations

The largest celebrations take place on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, featuring:

Live concerts and performances

Military displays

Speeches by the Prime Minister and dignitaries

A spectacular fireworks display over the Ottawa River

Community Celebrations

Across the country, communities celebrate with:

Fireworks displays

Parades

Community barbecues and picnics

Outdoor concerts

Canada Day runs and walks

Cultural performances

Red and white decorations everywhere

At Home

Many Canadians celebrate by:

Hosting barbecues with family and friends

Wearing red and white

Displaying the Canadian flag

Watching fireworks

Attending community events

Citizenship Ceremonies on Canada Day

IRCC often holds special citizenship ceremonies on Canada Day. New citizens taking the Oath on July 1 experience a unique celebration — becoming Canadian on the anniversary of Canada itself.

Canada Day and the Citizenship Test

For the test, know:

Canada Day is July 1

It celebrates Confederation (1867)

Original four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick

First PM: Sir John A. Macdonald

Originally called "Dominion Day"

Capital: Ottawa

Other National Holidays

While studying Canada Day, review other national holidays that appear on the test:

Victoria Day (Late May)

Celebrates the birthday of the Sovereign. Named after Queen Victoria.

Remembrance Day (November 11)

Honours Canadians who served in wars and peacekeeping.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30)

Honours residential school survivors.

Thanksgiving (Second Monday in October)

A day to give thanks for the harvest and blessings.

A Day of Reflection

While Canada Day is a celebration, it is also a time for reflection. Many Canadians use the day to think about what it means to be Canadian — the values of diversity, inclusion, peace, and democracy that define the nation.

For new Canadians, Canada Day has special significance. It represents the country that welcomed them and the community they have joined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Canada Day a statutory holiday?

Yes. It is a federal statutory holiday. If July 1 falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed.

What if Canada Day falls on my work day?

As a statutory holiday, you are entitled to the day off (with pay, in most cases) or holiday premium pay if you must work.

How do new citizens typically celebrate?

Many new citizens attend community events, host celebrations, and feel a special connection to the day as fellow citizens.

Celebrate your journey to citizenship by preparing with our [Study Hub](/dashboard/study) and [practice tests](/dashboard/practice).