Despite its not being a Canadian federal government holiday like Christmas or Good Friday (though it was recognized as “legal” in 1996), most residents do get British Columbia Day (or its equivalent in their region) off from work. The seeds for the traditional celebration becoming a recognized holiday were sown in 1969 when the government of Ontario named the first Monday in August “Simcoe Day” in honour of anti-slavery figure John Graves Simcoe. Before long (1974 in British Columbia), other territorial governments heard proposals from prominent politicians and affirmed that they should celebrate their honourable histories in an official capacity.
Canadians often refer to the holiday as one of the “stats” (statutory holidays), or “publics,” which, again, differ in the level of legal importance from territory to territory, and municipality to municipality. But the day does fall in the middle of the summer season, and not too many Canadians complain about a chance to plan a long weekend and make a fun family outing out of British Columbia Day!
British Columbia Day in Canada is the name for the first Monday in August when residents of British Columbia celebrate their local heritage. In other Canadian provinces, the same day is known by different names unique to their respective areas, for example, “George Hamilton Day” in Hamilton, Ontario, and “Saskatchewan Day” in the province of that name. British Columbia Day recalls explorer James Douglas’ discovery of the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island, the site of the current city of Victoria, and the eventual announcement by the British that the region would become the colony called British Columbia. Similarly, other provinces focus on their particular items of culture, history, and political development.
All across Canada, the day is marked by parades, festivals, and other public gatherings, many of which are themed. As a primary example, British Columbia offers the Anime Revolution, the Vancouver Pride Parade, and the Powell Street Festival (a celebration of Asian-Canadian heritage).
Why We Love British Columbia Day
There are festivals galore
Right around British Columbia Day, plenty of street fairs and cultural activities take place. From a street dance festival to a Caribbean festival, there are many opportunities to join in the revelry of the occasion.
It’s at the height of summer
Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy British Columbia's scenic beauty, from rugged coastlines to scenic mountain hiking trails. The fact that British Columbia Day falls smack in the middle of the summer season means you can always plan that adventurous weekend getaway.
WIt celebrates the diverse population of British Columbia
British Columbia is a melting pot of cultures, and the holiday recognizes the various ethnicities that make the region such a vibrant place. In fact, just for one example, there's a dedicated festival for anime lovers in Vancouver. Other celebrations are just as specifically targeted, and all are a good time!
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