Short description for Canada Day would be “The National Day of Canada”. It is a statutory holiday, allowing all Canadians to celebrate the anniversary of July 1st,1867, which is when the enactment of the British North America Act united three British colonies into a single country called Canada. This was done within the British Empire and the special day was originally called Dominion Day. This name was changed in 1982- that is the year Canada gained full independence from the United Kingdon.
Now Canada Day is most commonly called “Canada’s Birthday” and you can find detailed description and lot more information on Wikipedia website.
If you plan to celebrate Canada’s birthday, there are lots of opportunities to attend special events across the country. If you do, chances are that you will be faced with joining in signing the national anthem. Here is a brief summary of history of Canada;s national anthem:
“O Canada” was proclaimed Canada’s national anthem on July 1, 1980, 100 years after it was first sung on June 24, 1880. The music was composed by Calixa Lavallée, a well-known composer; French lyrics to accompany the music were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The song gained steadily in popularity and many English versions have appeared over the years. The version on which the official English lyrics are based was written in 1908 by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir. The official English version includes changes recommended in 1968 by a Special Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Commons. The French lyrics remain unaltered.
Do you know the official words? No worries if you are not sure – here are both – the English and the French versions for you:
English lyrics:
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
French Lyrics:
« O Canada! Terre de nos aïeux,
Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux!
Car ton bras sait porter l’épée,
Il sait porter la croix!
Ton histoire est une épopée
Des plus brillants exploits.
Et ta valeur, de foi trempée,
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits. »
Hope you have enjoyed this brief insight into Canada’s National Holiday – please send in your comments, suggestions and experiences, your input is always welcomed and very much appreciated
