Introduction
If you are a Canadian, you probably look forward to the last Monday of May every year. That is when we celebrate Victoria Day, a public holiday commemorating the birthday of Queen Victoria, Canada’s first monarch. However, May 24 Weekend is more than just a holiday. It’s a day that honors our country’s history, culture, and identity. It’s also the unofficial start of summer in Canada, with plenty of fun and celebratory activities to enjoy. In this blog, we will look at the origins, customs, and significance of Victoria Day in Canada, as well as why it is more than just a day off.
History
Victoria Day has a long and rich history that dates back to 1845, when the legislature of the Province of Canada passed a law to celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday on May 24th. Queen Victoria was the reigning monarch at the time, and she was well-liked by Canadians for her part in establishing the Dominion of Canada in 1867. She was also viewed as a symbol of stability and progress during a period of political and social upheaval. Following Queen Victoria’s death in 1901, May 24 Weekend became a federal statutory holiday. Since then, it has also been acknowledged as the current monarch’s formal birthday, regardless of their actual birth date. Victoria’s Day has grown from a serious event to a festive celebration of Canadian heritage and identity over the years. The following are some historical events and practices related to the holiday:
Military parades:
Historically, Victoria Day was a day for Canadians to demonstrate their devotion and appreciation to the Crown by attending military reviews and salutes. On Victoria Day, some localities still host parades or festivities to honor the armed forces and veterans.
Fireworks:
Watching or setting off fireworks is one of the most popular and stunning ways to commemorate Victoria’s Day. The practice of Victoria Day fireworks dates back to 1860 when Canadians lighted bonfires and fireworks to welcome Prince Edward, the future King Edward VII, who was visiting the country. Fireworks have become a fixture of Victoria Day celebrations around the country since then.
Sporting events:
Another popular method to celebrate May 24 Weekend is to take part in or watch sporting events. On Victoria Day in the past, Canadians enjoyed a variety of sports and pastimes, including cricket, lacrosse, horse racing, and tug-of-war. Today, popular Victoria Day sporting events include the Canadian Football League’s season opener, a baseball game between the Toronto Blue Jays, and the Indianapolis 500 car race.
Culture
Victoria’s Day is both a historical and a cultural holiday. It embodies some of the values and traits that identify us as Canadians, such as our diversity, patriotism, and sense of humor. It also has an impact on popular culture and the media in numerous ways. The following are some cultural characteristics and significance of Victoria Day:
Diversity:
Victoria Day is a celebration that honors both Canada’s unity and diversity. It acknowledges our shared ancestry and identity as members of the Commonwealth under the monarchy, as well as our various cultures and customs as different regions and communities within Canada. In Quebec, for example, Victoria Day is also known as National Patriots’ Day (Journée nationale des patriotes), commemorating the rebels who fought against British rule during the Lower Canada Rebellion of 1837-1838. Victoria Day is also known as May Long Weekend, May Long, May Two-Four, or Firecracker Day in other parts of Canada, reflecting varied local names and customs for the occasion.
Patriotism:
Victoria Day is also a holiday that promotes Canadian patriotism and pride. It reminds us of our past and achievements as a monarchy-ruled nation, as well as our duty and duties as Canadian citizens. On this day, it also encourages us to honor our flag, song, and symbols. Also, On Victoria Day, for example, some Canadians fly or wear red and white apparel or accessories to display their national pride. On this day, others sing or play O Canada or God Save the Queen to honor their national anthems.
Humor:
Victoria Day is also a celebration that celebrates the wit and inventiveness of Canadians. On this day, we are inspired to have fun and create jokes, which are frequently related to the weather, the monarchy, or the beer. Some Canadians, for example, refer to Victoria Day as May Two-Four, which is a slang word for a case of 24 beers, a favorite drink during this weekend. Others make fun of the weekend’s erratic weather, which might range from snow to scorching. Some people make fun of the monarchy or the Queen by donning false crowns or tiaras or generating memes or parodies of royal events.
Conclusion
In Canada, Victoria Day is more than just a day off. It’s a day to honor our country’s history, culture, and identity. It’s also the unofficial start of summer in Canada, with plenty of fun and celebratory activities to enjoy. Whether you name it Victoria Day, May Long Weekend, May Two-Four, or Firecracker Day, it’s a day that all Canadians should celebrate and enjoy. What are your plans for the May 24 weekend? Please share your ideas and stories in the comments section below. Victoria Day greetings!
We hope you have a wonderful and safe Victoria Day!