Canada Day: Learning About the Home of Maple Syrup

Known for its friendly culture, stunning scenery and love of hockey, Canada is a country that holds a special place in many people’s hearts. 

One of the biggest celebrations in the calendar is Canada Day, an event that champions all the traditions and cultural quirks that make the country unique. 

In this blog, we explore what Canada Day is all about, and how you can embrace the spirit of this special day by indulging in Canada’s beloved culinary treasure – maple syrup. 

What is Canada Day?

Canada Day is a federal holiday celebrated every year on the 1st July to commemorate the coming together of Canada’s three original provinces – Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and the Canada province – as one nation. In other words, it’s Canada’s birthday! 

The holiday was previously called Dominion Day, but this name was changed in 1982 following the repatriation of the Canadian Constitution from the British to the Canadian Parliament, which saw Canada become a fully independent nation. 

Today, Canada Day is used to celebrate Canadian culture, history and independence, along with all the people – including immigrants, expatriates and indigenous groups – who have played a part in the country’s story.

How is Canada Day celebrated?

Most workers in Canada get the day off work, with plenty of celebrations taking place across the country. These include parties, street parades, barbecues, live concerts and many renditions of Canada’s national anthem, O Canada. 

Each city celebrates Canada Day in its own way, but the biggest celebrations take place in the capital city of Ottawa. Thousands of people flock to Parliament Hill to witness the Changing the Guard ceremony and enjoy live music and a breathtaking firework display. 

In Quebec, Canada Day coincides with the provincial tradition of Moving Day. Many leases come up for renewal at the start of July, leading to a mass movement of people from one home to another. The day is seen by Quebecers as a time for new beginnings. 

Wherever you find yourself in Canada on the 1st July, you’re sure to come across people dressed in red and white, displays of the iconic maple leaf national flag and plenty of classic Canadian food, including poutine, Bannock bread and, of course, maple syrup.

Recipes for celebrating Canada Day

You don’t have to be Canadian to enjoy Canada Day! Tucking into some traditional Canadian food is a great way to get involved in the celebrations, and we have a range of recipes that incorporate the culinary richness of Canadian maple syrup. 

Why not start the day with our bacon pancakes, complete with creamy avocado and spicy chipotle sour cream? Pure maple syrup is used to sweeten both the bacon and the pancake batter, serving up the perfect breakfast treat. 

Next up, you’ll need some finger food. Coated in spices and then brushed with a homemade BBQ sauce, these maple-glazed chicken wings strike a fine balance between sweet and spicy and serve as the perfect party food. 

Did you know that maple syrup also works well with cocktails? This passion fruit martini is proof of that. Made by mixing lime juice, vanilla vodka, passion fruit liquer and pure maple syrup, the cocktail is vibrant, fruity and easy-drinking. 

Canada Day, the maple way

With a bottle of maple syrup and a few of our recipes, you can celebrate Canada Day like a true Canadian, even if you’re all the way in Australia.

For more ideas on how to use maple syrup in your cooking and baking, make sure to check out the rest of our maple syrup recipes!