Select Page
Thanksgiving in Canada | History & Traditions

Thanksgiving in Canada | History & Traditions

Two young Asian children are posing for a photo in a pumpkin patch. Visiting a pumpkin patch is a fun family activity to celebrate Thanksgiving in Canada.

Celebrating your first Thanksgiving in Canada? Here’s a quick guide to common traditions and history. From sharing a feast to great fall weekend activities, here’s how to enjoy this cherished Canadian holiday!

Why Do We Celebrate?

Canadian Thanksgiving is rooted in Indigenous values, including giving thanks for surviving winter and for receiving crops and game as a reward for their hard work. First Nations traditions would include feasting, prayer, dance and other ceremonies. However, the concept of thanksgiving was influenced by our American neighbours. Celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada holds deep cultural significance.

Pilgrims arriving in Massachusets.

Thanksgiving finds its origins in the 17th century. In 1620, a group of religious separatists left England to establish a colony in the New World. After landing on the coast of current-day Massachusets, the colonists allied with the nearby Wampanoag community. The Wampanoag people taught the “pilgrims”, as they are now called, how to cultivate corn, catch fish, and avoid poisonous plants. 

In 1957, Thanksgiving became an official holiday in Canada. Since then, the day has served as a way to give thanks for good fortunes in the past year.

New Call-to-action

What Does Thanksgiving Mean Today?


Advertisement:


While it originally celebrated harvests, today it’s about giving thanks for all the good in our lives. It’s a non-religious holiday that fosters inclusivity across cultures and beliefs. Thanksgiving in Canada embodies a spirit of unity and gratitude.

Thanksgiving is about giving thanks and helping those less fortunate and in need. Food Banks Canada holds Thanksgiving food drives to distribute food to those who need it. It’s common for Canadians to donate to food drives or volunteer to serve Thanksgiving meals within their community to help others. As an important part of Canadian culture, volunteering benefits newcomers who want to contribute to and learn about their local community.

A calendar marks the Thanksgiving holiday in October on the second Monday of the month.
The Thanksgiving holiday falls on the second Monday of October.

When is Thanksgiving in Canada in 2024?

Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October and this year the holiday falls on October 14, 2024. It’s a time to bid farewell to summer and welcome the cooler months. The date for Thanksgiving in Canada varies but always falls in October.

Common Thanksgiving Traditions

Canada Thanksgiving traditional dinner with roasted turkey, side dishes, and pumpkin pie.
Traditional Thanksgiving dinner with roasted turkey, side dishes, and pumpkin pie.

Thanksgiving Feast

Families usually celebrate Thanksgiving with neighbours and family friends. The Thanksgiving feast is the main event that takes place during the holiday. It is a great way to reunite with family members who don’t live close enough to meet regularly. If you don’t have family close by, you can invite friends and neighbours to a Thanksgiving dinner. Gathering for Thanksgiving in Canada often involves sharing a meal with loved ones.

The Thanksgiving feast usually includes a roasted turkey, with stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Of course, every family has its traditions and the feast can vary.


Advertisement:


Thanksgiving Weekend

Many families celebrate over the weekend leading to the holiday on Monday, allowing for more time to gather with loved ones. Thanksgiving Weekend is a great time for family members to get together. Often, relatives living in different cities or provinces gather to enjoy the Thanksgiving feast together. Celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada often involves a long weekend filled with family activities.

Many Canadians take time to enjoy the beauty of autumn during the Thanksgiving weekend. Colourful leaves in Algonquin Park, Ontario.

Autumn Activities

Thanksgiving weekend in Canada is the perfect time to take part in autumn activities. Whether you take a drive to view the trees changing colours, attend a local fall fair, or visit a pumpkin patch, you’ll find many events and fun activities. You may even want to bake a pumpkin pie! Thanksgiving in Canada is also a great time to enjoy the beauty of autumn.

Mother pushing her daughter in a wheelbarrow with a giant pumpkin

Sports Traditions

Canadians also enjoy watching football, with both the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the National Football League (NFL) hosting Thanksgiving games on the holiday. The CFL holds a Thanksgiving classic with a doubleheader featuring four different teams. The games air on National TV as well as multiple sports channels. Sports are an integral part of Thanksgiving traditions in Canada.

Is Thanksgiving in Canada a Statutory Holiday?

Thanksgiving is a statutory holiday in most provinces, although it’s optional for employers in the four Maritime provinces. That means employers may give employees the day off but they do not have to.

Thanksgiving is a day that holds meaning for many Canadians. It is a time to gather with family and enjoy a festive meal while also giving thanks for everything we have. It’s also a time to reflect on the origins of the holiday and the role of Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. The First Nations people are an integral part of our culture, history and future and to whom we owe a great debt. Thanksgiving Canada is a time to acknowledge these important aspects.

To all celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada, we wish you warmth and gratitude!

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation is Sept 30

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation is Sept 30

Feathers are arranged in a circle and include the words "every child matters". The orange background symbolizes Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Also known as Orange Shirt Day, it recognizes and remembers the tragic history and honours the survivors of residential schools. These schools were underfunded and inflicted abuse on children leaving long-lasting impacts. It’s also an important day for all Canadians to learn more about Canada’s Indigenous history.

For newcomers, it’s a day to learn about the history of Canada’s residential schools and the wrongs committed against the Indigenous Peoples. By exposing the truth, we can move toward reconciling what Canada has long ignored.

Origin of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Since its founding in 2013, Orange Shirt Day has helped Canadians learn about past mistakes and remember the legacy of residential schools. More than that, it symbolizes how Canadians strive for a future where all Indigenous people have equal rights.

This valuable resource, Reconciliation Information for Newcomers to Canada provides the history of Canada’s residential school system and reconciliation information.

What is Orange Shirt Day?


Advertisement:


Orange Shirt Day recognizes the harm that residential schools caused to Indigenous children, families, and communities. The Day is based on the story of Phyllis Webstad. She was an Indigenous girl of 6 years when she was forced to go to a residential school.

Phyllis lived with her grandmother on Dog Creek Reserve and never had a lot of money. However, her grandmother still managed to save enough money to buy Phyllis a brand-new orange shirt to wear to school. Phyllis was excited to go to her residential school. But she did not know about the horrors that were awaiting her.

Once she reached the school, she was forced to remove her orange shirt and never saw it again. The orange shirt has come to symbolize how it was for Indigenous children to attend residential schools. Not only did these schools forcefully assimilate children but they also took away all meaning of life for them.

Orange Shirt Day is a way to fix the injustice done to the Indigenous peoples. It is also a stark reminder of the kind of place Canada would be without its accepting and inclusive environment. Canada is full of many great things but one of the greatest things Canadians have is a sense of unity, no matter what our backgrounds are. Let’s never forget that as we move into the future. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation allows Canadians to pause and reflect.

On September 30, people across Canada wear orange shirts to remember the children who were taken from their families to residential schools. Wearing orange also promotes the concept of “Every Child Matters” and honours the survivors of residential schools.


Advertisement:


Orange Shirt Day promotes the concept of “Every Child Matters” and honours the survivors of residential schools.

Remains of Indigenous Children Found in Kamloops, B.C.

In May 2021, there was a shocking discovery in Kamloops, British Columbia where the buried remains of 215 Indigenous children were found near a residential school. Kamloops Residential School was one of the biggest residential schools in Canada.

More remains were found near other residential schools in Canada revealing a dark chapter of Canada’s history. So our job as Canadians is to honour the survivors of residential schools and recognize their losses. These discoveries urge all Canadians to learn from the past and avoid making the same mistakes.

A crosswalk is painted orange with white feathers to honour the survivors of residential schools in Canada on the Day for National Truth and Reconciliation Day. .
A crosswalk is painted orange with white feathers to honour survivors of Canada’s residential school system.

Truth and Reconciliation Report

To redress the legacy of residential schools, Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Residential Schools recommended specific actions to reverse the injustice. And on June 3, 2021, the Canadian parliament passed Bill C-5 to designate September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This day encourages Canadians to learn about the darker parts of Canada’s past rather than to hide from it. It’s a day to learn about key historical events. Only when every Canadian knows about the crimes committed against Indigenous peoples can we move forward as a nation.

New Call-to-action

Canada Day 2024! Celebrating Canada’s 157th Birthday!

Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease

A picture of three young Indigenous children walking along a path, holding hands and wearing wearing traditional regalia. The photo represents truth and reconciliation

National Truth and Reconciliation Events in 2024

First Nations, Metis, and Inuit Leaders have organized many National Truth and Reconciliation events in 2024. These important events help all Canadians to acknowledge the harm done and better understand the history of Indigenous Peoples.

Reconciliation is an ongoing process that involves taking time to listen, learn, reflect, and support healing in communities.

Ottawa, Ontario

Illuminating Parliament Hill

To honour the survivors of residential schools, their families and communities buildings across Canada including the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill will be lit orange throughout the evening of September 30.

National Commemorative Gathering

A live broadcast, Remembering The Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2024 will be on APTN and partnering Canadian broadcasters. You can watch the broadcast online to memorialize children lost to the residential school system.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR)

The CMHR has a permanent Indigenous Perspectives exhibit that explores the history and legacy of residential schools. CMHR will offer free admission on September 30 from 10 am to 5 pm.

Calgary, Alberta

University of Calgary and the Calgary Public Library

Special events will take place on September 29 and 30 to raise awareness about the impact and legacy of the Indian Residential School System. Orange Shirt Day events will take place at the University of Calgary and the Calgary Public Library.

Toronto, Ontario

To mark September 30, flags at City Hall and civic centres will fly at half-mast and the Toronto sign will be lit orange. The Survivors Flag will also fly at half-mast. This flag is a sign of remembrance to honour all the lives and communities affected by the residential school system in Canada. In addition, many truth and reconciliation community events will be open to the public across the city.

Vancouver, British Columbia

On September 30, the University of British Columbia will host the 2024 Intergenerational March to Commemorate Orange Shirt Day. This educational event will support the Indigenous community on campus and beyond. A series of afternoon educational events will allow younger participants to learn about a difficult era in Canadian history.

With events taking place all across Canada, be sure to check out what activities will take place in your local community.

Is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation a Statutory Holiday?

The Government of Canada declared September 30 a federal statutory holiday. So, people who work in federally regulated industries such as postal workers, government staff, and bank employees get the day off with pay. As well some schools will close. When September 30 falls on a weekend. federal workplaces observe the holiday on the following Monday.

Recognizing September 30th as a statutory holiday encourages people to reflect and engage in activities to honour those affected by the residential school system.

What Provinces Observe Truth and Reconciliation Day?

Only some provinces and territories observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a statutory holiday.

In 2023, the Province of British Columbia made September 30 a statutory holiday. This allows the people of British Columbia to attend local events to learn about and support the Indigenous community. Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and the three territories, Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories also recognize September 30 as a holiday.

Other provinces, like Ontario, September 30th as a day of commemoration and leave it up to individual employers to treat it as a holiday. 

Whether you’re at work, school, or a community event, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to honour of honour the survivors and communities of residential schools. As we learn more about Indigenous cultures across Canada we strengthen our relationships. And, whether you wear an orange shirt on September 30 or take time to reflect on the past, you share your support for reconciliation!

What is eSIM and How to Get it in Canada?

What is eSIM and How to Get it in Canada?

A man is walking in airport and using his smartphone that he has activated using eSIM technology.

When you arrive in Canada, you can easily use your phone when you activate an eSIM. eSIM technology allows you to activate a cellular data plan like a traditional SIM card and save on mobile data costs. Discover what eSIM is and how to activate it, price, benefits, and more!

Discover how to activate eSIM before you arrive in Canada. The bright yellow eSIM logo appears on a smartphone.
Newer Smartphones have eSIM technology.

What is eSIM?

Many phones today have an embedded SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card. While eSIMs function like physical SIM cards, they have more benefits such as durability, space-saving on your phone, and enhanced security.

You can also activate and manage eSIMs remotely, and easily switch between different numbers and carriers without swapping out physical cards. Not only that but eSIMs support prepaid and postpaid mobile phone plans.

Many physical SIM cards on a world map..

What is a SIM Card?

A SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card holds the information to connect you to a mobile network. A SIM card will allow your mobile device to receive calls, send SMS messages, and connect to a cellular network in Canada.

Why Do I Need eSIM and What Are the Benefits?


Advertisement:


With eSIM, you can easily and quickly use your phone to connect to people and places. Some of the benefits include:

Cost Savings

Convenience and Flexibility

With eSIM you don’t need a physical SIM card and you can:

  • Activate eSIM digitally and use data plans of different providers
  • Enable multiple service plans on a single device to separate work and personal lines or add international plans without affecting the main service
  • Access your data needs and purchase a plan without visiting a store and buying from vendors.

Get a Local Number

  • With a local Canadian phone number, it’s easier for people and employers to contact you. It’s common for Canadian employers to begin the interview process with a telephone interview.
eSIM prevents hackers from stealing your personal information and monitoring online activities. A person is holding a locked mobile phone.

Safety and Security

  • eSIM allows you to avoid using public Wi-Fi at airports and cafes. This prevents hackers from stealing your personal information or monitoring online activities.

Network Coverage

  • Using an eSIM ensures you get the best cellular network coverage.

Overall, getting a new eSIM card saves you money, offers greater convenience and safety, and helps you easily connect to friends, family, and employers when you land in Canada.

Which Phones Have eSIM?

Most mobile phones support eSIM technology. If your phone is a 2018 model or newer, it most likely has eSIM. However, you can check your phone’s settings to make sure.

Related Posts:


Advertisement:


How to Find the Best Mobile Phone Deal in Canada

Building Credit History in Canada as a Newcomer

Can I Buy eSIM Before I Arrive in Canada?

Yes, you can buy eSIM before arriving in Canada! Many newcomers choose this route because of its convenience.

Benefits of Buying Before You Arrive in Canada

There are many things to after landing in Canada. Getting eSIM before you arrive in Canada allows you to easily connect to people and places as soon as you land.

In addition, many services, such as opening a Canadian bank account, require a local number for verification or setup. Having a local number from the start can facilitate these processes and avoid future headaches.

Combining the convenience, a seamless transition, and access to local services, getting eSIM before you arrive is worth it!

A young male customer is choosing a smartphone in a mobile carrier store.

How to Get eSIM After You Arrive in Canada

Getting an eSIM in Canada is easy with many places to get one in Canada!

Airport: You can buy an eSIM at the airport and connect immediately upon arrival. However, it will cost you more at the airport.

Mobile Carrier Stores: Mobile carrier stores are good places to get eSIM. Major mobile carriers in Canada, such as Rogers, Bell, Telus, and Freedom Mobile, all have stores and offer many options, plans, and prices.

Electronics Stores: Major electronics stores such as Best Buy, Staples and Walmart also sell eSIM cards. You can often find a good deal on smartphone prices too!

Convenience Stores and Gas Stations: Some convenience stores and gas stations also sometimes sell eSIMs These stores are a good option if you are looking to buy a quick prepaid eSIM.

Benefits of Buying After Arriving in Canada

When you buy an eSIM after you arrive, you can get personal service to learn about different mobile carriers and plans. This will help you choose the best option for your needs and budget. You can also get help from store representatives to activate and set up your network coverage, to ensure everything works correctly.

The phone bill balance owing appears on an invoice from a mobile phone company. The eSIM price in Canada depends on many factors.

What is the eSIM Price in Canada?

The eSIM price in Canada depends on many factors. A big choice to make is between postpaid and prepaid mobile phone plans. Postpaid or monthly contract plans offer a set amount of calling minutes, texts, and data. Prepaid plans require you to buy calling minutes, texts, and data before using them.

Another choice you will have to make is between cell phone providers. Telus, Rogers, and Bell are the big three in Canada but tend to be a bit pricey if you buy as an individual. However, these carriers are great for family plans and bundles including home internet.

Some of the best mobile phone deals in Canada are with discount brands such as Freedom Mobile, Koodo, Virgin Mobile, and Fido, to name a few. All these providers offer new plans so it is a good idea to shop around to help you choose.

Global eSIM Services

Global eSIM services provide mobile data connectivity that you can use in many countries.

This can all be done without the need for physical SIM card changes.

One of the best global eSIM service providers is Saily. Saily’s services provide data coverage in over 150 countries with flexible travel data plans. Saily is the perfect choice if you need a data-only plan in Canada for a few days or weeks before choosing a cell phone provider. Saily is also a great travel companion if you travel outside Canada.

Getting access to Saily’s services is a quick and easy process. Download the app, choose one of Saily’s affordable plans, and enjoy reliable network coverage.

With many choices, you can find a plan that suits your needs and an eSIM price that meets your budget. Knowing how to activate it before you arrive is a convenient way to connect to people and places as soon as you land!

Celebrating the History of Labour Day in Canada

Celebrating the History of Labour Day in Canada

Marking the unofficial end of summer, most people know Labour Day in Canada for its extravagant parades and great shopping deals. Labour Day in Canada is an annual statutory holiday on the first Monday of every September. The holiday has a profound and complex history and many Canadians don’t know its significance. As we prepare for Labour Day, let’s remember to celebrate the workers, including immigrants, who built the country it is today. Discover the history of Labour Day, what it means for worker’s rights today, and how Canadians celebrate the holiday!

Why Do We Celebrate Labour Day?

The working class didn’t always have the rights we have in Canada today. Fair employment standards such as a safe workplace, a set minimum wage, and the right to join a union are some of the rights we take for granted today. The working class in the 19th century did not enjoy many of these rights. And, Canadian workers fought hard to gain these rights. Labour Day celebrates the progress and success of those dedicated to creating the workers’ rights and protections that we have today.

What is the History of Labour Day in Canada?

Labour Day officially became a statutory holiday in Canada in 1894. However, the holiday finds its origins long before that. Many historians accredit the events of 1872 as the driving force behind Labour Day. The Nine-Hour Movement of 1872 was a push for shorter work days at a time when most employees were expected to work twelve hours a day.

Nine-Hour Movement

On April 15, 1872, workers from the Toronto Typographical Union went on strike. They paraded with 10,000 union supporters to Queen’s Park in Toronto. At the time, however, unions were illegal and workers could not strike against their employers collectively. As a result, 24 strike leaders were arrested and charged with criminal conspiracy.


Advertisement:


The arrests met with widespread protest and the general population was enraged. Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, responded by promising to abolish anti-union laws. On July 14 of the same year, Parliament passed the Trade Unions Act, which made unions legal.  

People line the streets of Toronto in the early 1900s for a Labour Day parade.
People line the streets of Toronto in the early 1900s for a Labour Day Parade.

Labour Day Becomes a National Holiday

This was a huge breakthrough in workers’ rights. The passing of this bill gave way to many other rights that workers demanded. After the events of the Nine-Hour Movement, Toronto would hold an annual parade to celebrate the victory of unions. In 1894, Labour Day became a national holiday. At first, it was a holiday associated mostly with work unions. As time went on, however, more and more businesses started giving employees the day off. Today Labour Day is a statutory holiday across Canada and most workers get the day off.

Labour Day Weekend Holiday in Canada

Today, most people see Labour Day as the holiday that comes at the end of summer. However, the holiday still reflects what it originally stood for, a day for workers to rally together and campaign for better working conditions. This makes it a unique holiday. Unlike other Canadian statutory holidays, Labour Day is less festive. But, you will still see parades, picnics, speeches, and competitions.

Celebrations usually take place throughout the long weekend. Since most Canadians also get Monday off, the Labour Day Weekend has three days. Many Canadians use the Labour Day weekend to enjoy the company of family and friends. It is common for families to go on a picnic before the end of summer.

The first day of school usually follows the Labour Day holiday for most elementary, secondary, and university students. So, the Labour Day weekend in Canada is an opportunity for students to celebrate the last long weekend of the summer and prepare for the exciting new school year.


Advertisement:


New Call-to-action

Settle in Canada with Confidence & Ease

Is Labour Day a Statutory Holiday?

Yes, Labour Day is a federal statutory holiday. Unlike most other statutory holidays, Labour Day is pretty straightforward. All government offices and almost all retail stores will be closed. Some convenience stores and restaurants may remain open. The day after Labour Day marks the first day of school for students so many people refer to Labour Day weekend as the end of summer in Canada.

A calendar marks September 2, 2024 for the Labour Day holiday.

When is Labour Day in Canada in 2024?

Labour Day falls on the first Monday of September every year. In 2024, Labour Day falls on September 2nd.

Celebrating Labour Day Weekend in Canada

Now that you know a little bit about how Labour Day came to be and how Canadians celebrate it, let’s talk about some of the popular events that take place on the Labour Day weekend in Canada. Two of the biggest and most anticipated events around Labour Day are the Pacific and Canadian National Exhibitions. The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) takes place in Toronto while the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) takes place in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Attending the CNE during the Labour Day weekend in Canada is a signature end-of-summer event.

Canadian National Exhibition

The CNE is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Every year, this Toronto event begins in the weeks leading up to Labour Day and welcomes 1.6 million visitors. This year, the CNE will start on August 16th and runs until Labour Day on September 2nd. To many, the exhibition is Toronto’s signature end-of-summer event. The CNE is one of North America’s top fairs.

Watch highlights from the 2023 PNE Fair. The PNE closes on the Labour Day Weekend in Canada.

Pacific National Exhibition

The PNE is Western Canada’s equivalent of the CNE. Like the CNE, the PNE comes to Vancouver yearly and runs for around two weeks leading to Labour Day. PNE will open on August 19th – September 2, 2024.

The PNE is full of entertaining performances, music concerts, exciting rides, and food. This year, some of the PNE events include:

  • Summer Night Concerts
  • Barkade from the SuperDogs
  • Knights of Valour, a real live jousting event
  • The Flying Fools High Dive Show
  • Claude Monet’s multi-media artwork exhibit.

Both exhibitions are jam-packed with exciting activities and a thrilling summer send-off. They are a great way to spend time with family and friends while having the time of your life. The CNE and PNE might be the two biggest Labour Day events but they aren’t the only ones. No matter where you live, there will be events in cities across Canada. Many professional sports leagues also hold special games over the Labour Day Weekend.

With all of the exciting events that take place during the Labour Day holiday, remember to celebrate the workers, including immigrants, who built the country it is today and who continue to fight for workplace equity.

Discover Exciting Summer Festivals in Canada in 2024!

Discover Exciting Summer Festivals in Canada in 2024!

Indigenous People participate in the Calgary Stampede Parade, one of Canada's greatest summer festivals in 2024.
Indigenous Peoples participate in the Calgary Stampede Parade.

Canadians look forward to festivals and these 2024 summer festivals are worth checking out! Canada is home to some of the biggest and grandest festivals out there. New to Canada? Explore some of its most thrilling festivals. From rodeos to music to fireworks, these 2024 summer festivals are sure to please!

Check out these Exciting Summer Festivals in 2024

Montreal International Jazz Festival | Montreal, Quebec

June 27 – July 6, 2024

The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal has been thrilling music lovers since its first festival in 1980. It takes place in the heart of downtown Montreal, in the Quartier des Spectacles. In addition to jazz, this festival offers more than 350 shows and more than two-thirds are free. Check out some of the headliners at the 44th edition of the jazzfest!

A cowboy rides a bucking bronco at the Calgary Stampede, Alberta, Canada

Calgary Stampede | Calgary, Alberta

July 5 – 14, 2024

Calgary, and Western Canada in general, has a long farming history. And, most aspects of people’s lives revolved around running the family farm before Canada became a country. Specifically, cattle ranches were the most common type of farm present around Calgary and most of Alberta. So to embrace its modest origins, Calgary hosts a ten-day summer festival each year known as the Calgary Stampede.

The Calgary Stampede is the biggest rodeo event in Canada and among the top rodeos in North America. And, the main attraction is the tournament-style rodeo events.


Advertisement:


It also has many other fun activities. Experience the Calgary Stampede PowWow that highlights the diversity of First Nations dancing, singing, and drumming. Or, visit the Stage of Wonders and Le Cirque de la Nuit’s STARSLINGERS. This summer festival provides a range of shows, music, food and drink, and plenty of attractions that the whole family will enjoy.

Discover what the Calgary Stampede has to offer this summer!

Fireworks competition in Vancouver, British Columbia over English Bay.

Honda Celebration of Light, 2024 | Vancouver, BC

July 20, 24, 27, 2024

The Honda Celebration of Light is the biggest fireworks competition in the world. It is also the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world. In 2024, three countries will compete: Portugal (July 20), Malaysia (July 24), and United Kingdom (July 27). The fireworks take place over English Bay in Vancouver, British Columbia. Morton Park, which is close, will host live music events, food trucks, and activities for everyone.

For more details about this spectacular summer festival, visit the festival guide.

New Call-to-action

Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease


Advertisement:


Canada Day 2024! Celebrating Canada’s 157th Birthday

Caribana is an exciting summer festival in 2024 that takes place in Canada. A highlight is the stunning Caribbean costumes such as the ones these women wear.
A highlight of this summer festival is the stunning Caribbean costumes.

Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana) | Toronto, Ontario

August 1 – 4, 2024

It is only fitting that Canada’s largest festival takes place in Toronto, its largest city. Caribana is North America’s largest carnival. Also known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival this event celebrates Caribbean culture. The highly-anticipated carnival represents almost all Caribbean cultures and gets its unique theme from all Caribbean Islands.

The festival is now officially known as Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Many know the festival as, “Caribana”, which is what you get when you mix the words, “Caribbean”, and “Canada”. At this summer festival, you’ll discover anything and everything Caribbean. From Caribbean music to food, the carnival has something for everyone. After all, it is the largest carnival in North America.

Some other things you can expect are people in Caribbean clothing and costumes, Caribbean dances, and other traditions found in the Caribbean Islands. To learn more, check out the Caribana Toronto guide.

New Call-to-action

Edmonton Heritage Festival | Edmonton, Alberta

Aug 3 – 5, 2024

Canada has achieved what so many countries have failed to in the past. That achievement is building a culturally accepting environment where people from different backgrounds can live together peacefully. To celebrate this achievement, Edmonton hosts the largest celebration of multiculturalism in the world.

The Edmonton Heritage Festival is a fun and light-hearted three-day event that celebrates the beautiful cultures in our country. The festival represents over 60 nations that each set up outdoor pavilions at Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Parks. From traditional live music to iconic cultural foods, the Edmonton Heritage Festival has something for everyone. It is a great way to have some fun while also learning about the wonderful cultures that make up Canada.

Summer is about relaxing, spending time with loved ones, and having fun! Whether you attend a large summer festival or take a walk in the park, make sure to enjoy the wonderful events that Canada has to offer.

These are just some of the many summer festivals taking place in 2024. Each part of Canada has its unique way of celebrating the summer. To search for other summer festivals in 2024, check out some of these events and celebrations in local communities. 

Discover more about living and settling in Canada successfully.