On June 20th, 1868, a proclamation signed by the Governor General, Lord Monck, called upon all Her Majesty’s loving subjects throughout Canada to join in the celebration of the anniversary of the formation of the union of the British North American provinces in a federation under the name of Canada on July 1, 1867, with the passing of the North American Act of 1867.
This was a true milestone in Canada’s history – on this day, Canada’s four colonies united.
It is common for Canadians to celebrate July 1st with barbeques, warm weather, and fireworks and Hanna is no exception! Have a look at the Canada Day schedule of events:
Kick off the celebration on Sun. Jun 30 by attending the Bike Parade and Fireworks at Fox Lake Park. The bike and walking parade begins at 7:00 pm and is open to all ages. There are often prizes for entries and decorated campsites. The spectacular annual light show, scheduled for 11:30 pm over the lake promises to awe and amaze, weather permitting. Sound travels so be cautious of your pets and small children.
If you aren’t a golfer and don’t want to start your Canada Day at 8:30 am, come to the Pancake Breakfast at the Museum. Fresh hot pancakes are served until 10:30 am for the price of a donation. While you are there, conduct your own self-guided tour as the buildings will be open from 8:00 am until Noon. Following breakfast, salute the flag at the flag raising ceremony at 12:30 pm at RCMP Park then head to the free BBQ at the Community Centre (south side). The Travelling Mabels will be entertaining us on the patio (1:30 to 3:30) while the youngsters enjoy the bounce houses and fun patrol (1:00 to 4:00). Public Swimming is free all day from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
NOTE: If the weather is not cooperating, updates will be available on our Facebook page. You do not need an account to view it. facebook.com/HannaTown. The full schedule of events can be found at hanna.ca/events. Just look for Canada Day Activities on June 30 and July 1.
Here are some interesting “Canada” facts:
- Canada is a mere 1.5% larger in land than the USA.
- Canada has the longest coastline in the world with 125,567 miles of coast.
- The Trans-Canada highway is the longest national highway in the world at over 4,725 miles in length.
- Canada has twice been invaded by the USA, first in 1775 and again in 1812. Both times, the USA lost.
- The Hawaiian Pizza was invented in Canada.
- Canadians eat more doughnuts per person than any other country.
If your community group or organization is planning an event to celebrate Canada Day, be sure to inform staff at the Town Office so it can be included in the calendar of events and the weekly flyer that is delivered to mailboxes.