There are many holidays in Canada, ranging from international festivals to traditional Canadian holidays. The following is an introduction to Canadian folk festivals for those Canadian immigrants who are about to head to Canada for their studies.
New Year's Day in Canada falls on January 1st. It is a Canadian public holiday; aside from emergency personnel on duty, most people take the day off and shops are closed.
Next is the romantic Valentine's Day in February, where red is the signature color in Canada. From the end of March to early April is the sweetest season in Canada. The Maple Syrup Festival is Canada's most traditional folk festival, and during the festival, venues open their doors to visitors from around the world, especially for children who love sweets.
Once the Maple Syrup Festival concludes, the season of Easter eggs begins. The date of Easter varies each year and, like Good Friday, it is a holiday primarily observed by Christians.
Victoria Day is a public holiday celebrated in honor of the Queen's birthday, and the last day of this week is considered the perfect day for planting tomatoes.
July brings Canada Day. This is a national public holiday in Canada, and if it falls on a weekend, a compensatory day off is provided. Similarly, B.C. Day is also a public holiday, held on the first Monday of August.
Unlike in some Asian countries, Labor Day in Canada is typically observed on the first Monday in September to pay tribute to workers.
Next is Canada's equivalent of the Mid-Autumn Festival—Thanksgiving Day. Unlike in the United States, Thanksgiving in Canada is not centered around turkeys, but rather originates from a British harvest tradition.
Halloween falls on October 31st each year. On this day, children across Canada dress up in costumes and go door-to-door shouting, "Trick or treat!"
Remembrance Day is held on November 11th each year, a day for people to pay tribute to soldiers who have served the country and sacrificed their lives. People wear red poppies to express their condolences and prayers for the fallen.
As with most Western countries, Christmas Day on December 25th is the main event of the year. People exchange gifts and well-wishes, homes are decorated with various delicacies and Christmas trees, and the entire nation is filled with a rich festive atmosphere.
