Victoria Day

Victoria Day History

Victoria Day commemorates the birthday of Queen Victoria, the first monarch of both Canada and the United Kingdom. As the day aims to honour the Queen's role in Canada's federation and her continued presence as a symbol of unity and stability, it is often a time of family gatherings, outdoor events, and public celebrations. National pride is evident throughout the festivities, as Canadians from all walks of life come together to recognize the impact of Queen Victoria's reign on the nation's history and identity.

The history of Victoria Day dates back to 1845, when the Parliament of the Province of Canada declared May 24 a holiday in honour of Queen Victoria's birthday. From that time on, the event gradually evolved and adapted to reflect Canada's changing role within the British Empire, culminating in the modern-day observance. Today, Victoria Day is an opportunity for Canadians to express gratitude for the Queen's pivotal achievements, such as the Confederation of Canada in 1867 and the adoption of the British North America Act, which laid the foundation for the nation's constitution.

To mark the occasion, Victoria Day is observed in Canada with various events and activities, often including parades, fireworks, and outdoor concerts. Taking advantage of the spring weather, families and friends organize picnics, barbecues, and recreational outings as a way to embrace Canada's unique cultural heritage. Typically, Victoria Day falls on the Monday on or before May 24, serving as a long weekend and a welcome respite for many Canadians in anticipation of the summer season ahead.

Top facts & quotes about Victoria Day

• Between 1840 and 1857, Queen Victoria gave birth to 9 children (4 boys: Edward VII, Alfred, Arthur, and Leopold and 5 girls: Victoria, Alice, Helena, Louise, and Beatrice). Although Victoria was the first-born child of Queen Victoria, it was her younger brother, Prince Albert, who went on to become king following his mother's death in 1901. He succeeded his mother and became King Edward VII.
• Victoria Day is a statutory federal holiday, but provincial and territorial governments overrule federal statutes in most areas of Canada. There are four provinces in Eastern Canada (QC, NL, NS, NB) where Victoria Day is not recognized.
• Canadians jokingly refer to Victoria Day as May Two-Four Day. This is an inside joke which refers to a case of beer, containing 24 bottles. For many Canadians, this is the first long weekend they have celebrated since Easter, and many cabins and camps are opened and prepared for the summer season ahead.
• Being pregnant is an occupational hazard of being a wife. - Queen Victoria
• She is now no more? Nay, I boldly say she lives — lives in the hearts of her subjects; lives in the pages of history. And as the ages revolve, as her pure profile stands more marked against the horizon of time, the verdict of posterity will ratify the judgment of those who were her subjects. She ennobled mankind; she ealted royalty; the world is better for her life. Sir, the Queen is no more; let us with one heart say, Long live the King! - Sir Wilfred Laurier, Former Prime Minister of Canada

In the News and Trending in Canada for Victoria Day

Top things to do for Victoria Day in Canada

• Visit a summer home or cottage. Open it for the season and enjoy a BBQ with a few beers on your long weekend.
• Attend a parade in your local town or city. Most cities host a May Day parade and celebrations typically last throughout the day.
• Read Queen Victoria's Gene: Haemophilia and the Royal Family by D.M. Potts and W.T.W. Potts.
• Watch a fireworks display in your local community or venture to one of the major city centres to watch a more elaborate display. Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa all host large firework displays to celebrate the Queen's birthday.
• Enjoy the long three-day weekend at one of the many private or provincial park sites. Popular activities include fishing and having bonfires.
• Watch one of many movies about Queen Victoria and the Royal Family. Some of our recommendations: The Young Victoria (2009), starring Emily Blunt, Her Majesty Mrs. Brown (1997), The Queen (2006) and the King's Last Speech (2010)