Family Day in Canada
Family Day is a regional statutory holiday that’s observed on the third Monday in February in most Canadian provinces. It’s observed in Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. In Manitoba, it’s not observed as Family Day but is instead observed as Louis Riel Day and in Nova Scotia, it’s observed as Nova Scotia Heritage Day.
Canada (Common local holidays) - AB, BC, NB, ON, SKRegardless of what it’s called, however, the purpose of this holiday is to celebrate the family and in most provinces is a day off for the general public. It’s also a day when schools and some businesses are closed for the day so that people can enjoy a three-day weekend.
The History Of Family Day In Canada
Family Day began in Alberta after Lt. Governor of Alberta, Helen Hunley, passed the Family Day Act in 1990. This act would establish the third Monday of every February as Family Day. Slowly over the next 20 years, other provinces began to also adopt this holiday.
In 2007, Family Days were 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 Monday.
Amazing Facts About Canada
Since we’re talking about Family Day in Canada, it’s only natural that we would take some time out of this article to list some amazing facts that we’ve learned 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 the top ten biggest islands in the world. These are Baffin Island, Victoria Island, and Ellesmere Island.
- Canada’s longest river is the McKenzie River. It’s 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 the 1st of July every year.
- Canada is the third largest oil reserve 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 of work or home from school, this is a holiday to spend time with family. This can be done simply by taking advantage of the 3-day weekend and enjoying nature, or attending some of the Family Day events that might pop up. 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
