What better way to ring in the month of July by celebrating the day that Canada became a nation! July 1st 2010 marks the 143rd celebration of Canada Day, formerly known as Dominion Day. On this day in 1867 the British North American Act united the British colonies of Upper Canada, Lower Canada, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into one unified country. These colonies became the first four provinces of Canada. Lower Canada was renamed Quebec, and Upper Canada was renamed Ontario. Thus, Canada became its own kingdom that day, but the British Parliament kept limited rights of political control over the new country that were shed by stages over the years until the last vestiges were surrendered in 1892 when the Constitution Act patriated the Canadian constitution.
Typically Canada’s birthday is celebrated much like we celebrate the 4th of July; with outdoor pleasures such as barbecues, picnics, fireworks, community sponsored parades, free musical concerts, and more! So if you are Canadian or your family is Canadian, wear your colors with pride today! Happy birthday Canada!