Should Canada Day Holiday be on a Weekend?
By Brian Belcourt, North Simcoe Springwater News, July 1, 2025
As this years Canada Day fell on a Tuesday, people have decisions to make on when to hold their Canada Day celebrations. Should I hold my celebrations on Canada Day as some people may have to work the day after or on the weekend when there is more time for people to prepare for their celebrations? When Canada Day falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, there is no long weekend for some people to celebrate unless they take time off work.
Under the federal holidays act, Canada Day is celebrated on July 1 of each year unless that day falls on a Sunday in which case July 2 is the statutory holiday. Canada Day formerly know as Dominion Day is a celebration of Canada independence which occurred on July 1, 1867. The name,“Canada Day” was officially adopted in 1982, following the passage of the Canada Act, which repatriated the Canadian Constitution. Across the country most communities host organized celebrations, such as parades, music, barbecues and fireworks. In our nations capital of Ottawa free concerts and cultural displays are held on the front lawn of the Parliament hill to celebrate the anniversary of Canada’s birthday.
If Canada day was held on a weekend to accommodate individuals’ holiday schedules, would it have the same meaning? If you were to move your personal birthday from Thursday to Friday to be on a weekend, would it be the same importance as your biological birth date?
Canada Day serves as a reminder of the county’s journey towards unity and independence, and it is an opportunity for Canadians to celebrate their national identity.