Family Day in Canada
Family Day is a regional statutory holiday observed on the third Monday in February in most Canadian provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. In Manitoba, the day is not observed as Family Day but as Louis Riel Day, and in Nova Scotia, it is observed as Nova Scotia Heritage Day.
Canada (Common local holidays) - AB, BC, NB, ON, SKRegardless of its name, the purpose of this holiday is to celebrate the family, and in most provinces, it is a day off for the general public. It is also a day when schools and some businesses are closed, allowing people to enjoy a three-day weekend.
The History of Family Day in Canada
Family Day began in Alberta after the Lt. Governor of Alberta, Helen Hunley, passed the Family Day Act in 1990. This act established the third Monday of every February as Family Day. Over the next 20 years, other provinces also adopted this holiday.
In 2007, Family Day was established in Saskatchewan, and the following year, Ontario passed its own family-oriented holiday. In 2013, British Columbia began observing this holiday, but it is celebrated on the second Monday of February instead of the third.
Amazing Facts About Canada
Since we’re discussing Family Day in Canada, let’s take some time to list some amazing facts about this country. So, everyone should pull up a chair, grab a drink, and enjoy the following facts about Canada:
- Canada only borders one country: the United States.
- Canada is the largest country in the Western Hemisphere and the second-largest country in the world after Russia.
- Three Canadian islands are among the top ten largest islands in the world. These are Baffin Island, Victoria Island, and Ellesmere Island.
- Canada’s longest river is the Mackenzie River, approximately 2,635 miles long.
- According to 2022 data, approximately 38 million people live in Canada.
- Canada Day is the national holiday of Canada and is observed on July 1 every year.
- Canada has the third-largest oil reserves in the world.
- Canada is the largest supplier of oil and gas to the United States.
Observing Family Day in Canada
For Canadians who are off work or home from school, this holiday is an opportunity to spend time with family. This can be done simply by taking advantage of the three-day weekend and enjoying nature or attending some of the Family Day events that might be organized. People are also encouraged to spread the word about this day using the hashtag #FamilyDayCanada on social media.
Canada (Common local holidays) - AB, BC, NB, ON, SK
