Victoria Day: More Than Just Fireworks and a Day Off
When you think of Victoria Day, what comes to mind? A long weekend? Fireworks? Maybe the unofficial start of summer?
While all those things are true, Victoria Day is more than just a bonus Monday off—it’s a unique Canadian holiday with royal roots, national pride, and some seriously fun traditions. Let’s take a closer look!
👑 Who Was Queen Victoria?
Victoria Day celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who ruled the British Empire (including Canada) from 1837 to 1901. Her reign—known as the Victorian Era—was a time of major growth and change for Canada, including Confederation in 1867.
Canadians have been celebrating her birthday since 1845, even before we officially became a country. That’s over 175 years of fireworks, parades, and patriotic pride!
🇨🇦 Why Do We Still Celebrate It?
You might be wondering: why are we still honoring a queen who ruled more than a century ago?
Victoria Day is about more than Queen Victoria herself. It marks:
- The start of the Canadian summer season (hello BBQs and cottage getaways!)
- A celebration of Canada’s history and roots in the British Commonwealth
- A chance to enjoy community parades, festivals, and fireworks
It’s also considered the official birthday of Canada’s monarch—so whether it’s Queen Victoria or King Charles III, this day is all about recognizing the monarchy’s connection to Canada.
🎉 How Do Canadians Celebrate?
From coast to coast, Canadians make the most of this long weekend with:
- Firework shows lighting up the night sky
- Parades in towns big and small
- Picnics, road trips, and family BBQs
- Opening up cottages and campsites for the summer
- Even a bit of gardening—many call it the “planting weekend!”
Some people call it May Two-Four, a nod to both the date (around May 24th) and the classic Canadian case of 24 beers—a fun twist that highlights the holiday’s laid-back, celebratory vibe.
🌞 A Perfect Kickoff to Summer
There’s something magical about Victoria Day—it marks a shift in the seasons, a chance to relax before school ends, and a reminder that summer is just around the corner.
Whether you’re watching fireworks, heading to the lake, or just sleeping in, take a moment to appreciate the history behind the holiday and the sense of togetherness it brings.
Happy Victoria Day, Canada! 🎇🍁
