Celebrate Victoria Day (May 20, 2024)
In Canada, Victoria Day is a special holiday that falls on the Monday before May 25. This year, it’s on May 20. It’s a time when people start to enjoy the start of summer with its sunny and green days. However, Victoria Day is also a reminder of Canada’s history, similar to how the Fourth of July is for Americans. It celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was the queen when Canada became its own nation in 1867. It’s a day when Canadians celebrate the unique qualities and achievements of their country.
History of Victoria Day
Victoria Day in Canada has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It all began in 1845 when the Canadian government declared Queen Victoria’s birthday, May 25th, as a national holiday. However, it wasn’t until after Queen Victoria passed away in 1901 that the holiday became firmly established as an official celebration. In 1952, Canada revamped the festivities, moving them to the Monday preceding May 25th.
Queen Victoria holds a special place in the hearts of Canadians. During her reign in 1867, Canada was granted independence within the British Empire, and she designated Ottawa as the nation’s capital. Initially, the birthdays of subsequent monarchs were celebrated on their actual birthdays or on May 25th, Victoria’s birthday. However, when Queen Elizabeth ascended the throne, Canada officially recognized May 25th as her birthday within its borders, despite her actual birthdate being April 21st.
Contrary to popular belief, Victoria Day isn’t about delving into British monarchy history or crafting sculptures of Queen Victoria. Instead, it marks the onset of the summer season, a highly anticipated event after enduring long, snowy winters. Canadians celebrate by indulging in their first swims of the year, organizing sports tournaments, and enjoying outdoor feasts as the landscape transforms with lush greenery and warm breezes.
Before Victoria Day became a staple holiday, royal birthdays were commemorated across Canada as early as the 17th century, albeit without formal legal recognition. These celebrations varied from official ceremonies to banquets and sporting events. Queen Victoria’s birthday was chosen as a unifying public holiday after the Canadas were united into the Province of Canada. It appealed to both English and French Canadians, symbolizing loyalty to the Crown and serving as a cornerstone of Canadian identity distinct from the neighboring United States.
Over the years, Victoria Day evolved from a military occasion to a patriotic holiday, solidifying Queen Victoria’s legacy as the “Mother of Confederation.” After her passing in 1901, Victoria Day became a permanent statutory holiday, honoring her significant contributions to Canadian history. The holiday’s date was later made variable, settling on the last Monday before May 25th each year to ensure a long weekend for Canadians. Additionally, Empire Day, later renamed Commonwealth Day, was introduced as an educational complement to Victoria Day, emphasizing Canada’s ties to the British Empire.
How to Observe Victoria Day?
Join a Parade: In Canada, Victoria Day is a time for fun parades. If you’re close to Canada or with Canadian friends, enjoy the day with floats, flags, and music. It’s a happy day with lots of sweets and songs in the sunshine!
Visit a Victorian House: You can still celebrate by visiting a house from the Victorian era. These homes show the design style Queen Victoria was known for in the 1800s. They’re often historical sites that you can tour easily.
Play Cricket: A favorite Victoria Day activity is playing cricket, a sport loved in Britain and brought to Canada. On this special day, grab some friends and play a game in the nice summer weather.
Why We Celebrate Victoria Day?
A Break from Winter: Victoria Day marks the end of the school year and the long winter season. It’s a chance for everyone, including workers and students, to enjoy a long weekend and relax in their communities.
Start of Summer: The holiday signals the beginning of summer in Canada. This means more trips, social events, and a boost in the economy as visitors flock to the country’s beautiful parks and cities. Although it’s a day to honor Queen Victoria, it’s also become a key time to celebrate the shift to warmer weather.
Active Celebrations: Victoria Day is known for its lively festivities. People dress in sporty clothes and take part in healthy activities like sports, walks, and family get-togethers. It’s a time when communities and families come together, often for the first time since the holiday season.
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