Canada Day, where did it all begin? It was established with a proclamation signed by the Governor General, Lord Monck. On June 20th 1868 he called on the people to gather in a celebration of the formation of the union of the British North America. He declared the day of July 1st to recognize the federation of provinces named Canada.

The celebration was named Dominion Day and formally established by passing a statute in 1879. Then it seemed to fade away. There are not records of formal celebrations for quite some time.

Finally the 50th anniversary of the Confederation spawned a formal celebration. What did that celebration consist of? The new Centre Block of Parliament was under construction. As part of the celebration this was dedicated as a memorial. Specifically it was to honor the bravery and valour of Canadians who fought in World War I and to recognize the Fathers of the Confederation.

Twenty years later on the Diamond Jubilee of the Confederation another celebration was organized. The Governor General officiated the laying of the cornerstone of the Confederation Building on Wellington Street in Ottawa. The building is very ornate and beautiful.

In 1958 the Secretary of State of Canada was given the responsibility of making arrangements for annual observations of the holiday. This began the traditional celebration that would take place on Parliament Hill. It includes the Trooping of the Colours in the afternoon, a sunset ceremony, followed by fireworks and band concerts.

One of the most memorable extravaganzas took place in 1967. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was the guest of honor and it was an exceptional display of patriotism that particular year. The arrival of the Queen is always a crowd pleaser.

In 1968 the event became televised and began to add multicultural events and more professional concerts for the television audience. Eventually the focus of events changed and it became Festival Canada. It was held in the National Capital area and events were held throughout the entire month of July. It included volunteer projects, art shows, concerts, and cultural events.

In 1976 there were budget problems in Canada. The entire celebration was canceled. Some blame Quebec's lack of interest for the problem. The next year they more than made up for the missed event by budgeting over 3 million dollars for the event.

On October 27th, 1982 the name was formally changed to Canada Day and celebrations were wide spread and celebrated on local as well as national events. Grants were provided as seed money to insure the success of the events.

It has a great heritage and it is a fun time to visit a city and enjoy the celebrations. You will find that each region adds their own perspective and culture to the celebrations.

Learn more about this author, Trenna Sue Hiler.
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