What is Victoria Day and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Victoria Day is a federal Canadian public holiday commemorating Queen Victoria, who ruled the United Kingdom and Ireland for the majority of the nineteenth century. Her great-great-granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II surpassed her as the longest-reigning monarch in British history in 2015. Queen Victoria was also the first monarch of the Dominion of Canada, created in 1867 by the amalgamation of four British possessions.
Victoria Day has been celebrated in Canada since at least 1845, initially on May 24, Victoria’s natural birthday. In 1901, the year of Queen Victoria’s death, it was officially named a federal holiday in Canada. The holiday was previously celebrated on May 24, but a 1952 reform to Canadian law mandated that it be recognized on the Monday preceding May 25. As a result, it always falls on a Monday between the 18th and the 24th (inclusive), making it the penultimate Monday of May (May 22 in 2023 and May 20 in 2024).
When Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in 1952, Victoria Day became her official birthday in Canada, even though her actual birthdate is April 21. The current Canadian monarch’s formal birthday is also celebrated on the same day.
Victoria Day commemorates Canada’s history and culture, as well as the country’s lasting links with the British monarchy. For many Canadians, it is also a day to celebrate the arrival of spring and the unofficial start of summer.
How Do Canadians Celebrate Victoria Day?
Depending on their interests and customs, Canadians commemorate Victoria Day in a variety of ways. Some of the most popular activities include:
Fireworks and Parades
Watching or participating in fireworks displays and parades is one of the most stunning and exciting ways to commemorate Victoria’s Day. Many Canadian cities and towns host public fireworks displays that illuminate the night sky with dazzling colors and shapes. Some people light their fireworks in their backyards or neighborhoods, but they must always adhere to safety guidelines and regulations.
Parades are another popular aspect of Victoria Day celebrations, particularly in bigger cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Victoria. These parades typically include marching bands, floats, costumes, and entertainers representing various parts of Canadian culture and tradition. Military troops and royal delegates pay tribute to the queen and the armed services in several parades.
Picnics and Barbecues
A picnic or BBQ with family and friends is another favorite way to spend Victoria’s Day. Many Canadians enjoy the nicer weather and longer days by spending time outside and sharing tasty food and drinks. Burgers, hot dogs, salads, sandwiches, chips, cookies, cakes, and pies are some of the traditional meals enjoyed by Canadians on Victoria Day. Some individuals like to bring games, music, or books to their picnics to make them more enjoyable and relaxing.
Camping and Outdoor Recreation
Camping and outdoor activity are excellent ways to spend Victoria Day for individuals who enjoy nature and adventure. Many Canadians visit provincial or national parks, campers, cottages, or cabins to get away from the city and appreciate Canada’s natural beauty. Hiking, biking, fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and wildlife watching are just a few of the activities available to campers. Camping may also be a terrific way to reconnect with family or friends over a campfire or beneath the sky.
Visiting Historical Sites and Museums
Visiting historical sites and museums can be a great way to spend Victoria Day for individuals who want to learn more about Canada’s history and culture. Many places in Canada provide educational and entertaining experiences for visitors of all ages.
Some examples include:
- Natural history, foreign cultures, art, and archaeology are displayed at Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum.
- The Canadian Museum of History, located in Gatineau (near Ottawa), displays Canada’s social and human history from prehistoric times to the present.
- The Royal BC Museum in Victoria (the capital city named after Queen Victoria), which houses natural history collections,
- The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa highlights Canada’s military history and its global effect.
- Why is Victoria Day Important for Canadians?
It is more than just a day off from work or school on Victoria Day. It is a day to honor and celebrate Canada’s diverse history and culture. Also, It is a day to remember Queen Victoria, who reigned as a symbol of stability, development, and innovation. It is also a day to honor Queen Elizabeth II, who has served as a source of continuity, unity, and inspiration to Canadians for almost 70 years.
Victoria Day is also a day to celebrate the natural beauty and abundance of Canada and its people. It’s a day to celebrate and create memories with family and friends. It is a day to celebrate the arrival of spring and the arrival of summer.
How Will You Celebrate Victoria’s Day?
Depending on your hobbies and customs, there are numerous ways to celebrate Victoria’s Day. You can make this holiday your own by watching fireworks or parades, having a picnic or BBQ, going camping or visiting historical places, or doing something completely different.
We would appreciate hearing from you. What are your plans for Victoria’s Day this year? What are some of your favorite holiday traditions or activities? Please share your ideas and experiences in the comments area below.
We hope you have a wonderful and safe Victoria’s Day!