About Canada Day
Canada Day is the federal general holiday on 1 July. It marks the anniversary of Confederation in 1867 and has carried the official name Canada Day since 1982.
Why 1 July is important
Canadian Heritage records that the British North America Act, now called the Constitution Act, 1867, created Canada on 1 July 1867. A proclamation invited celebration of the anniversary the following year.
Federal law made 1 July a statutory holiday in 1879, and the occasion became known as Dominion Day. Parliament changed the official name to Canada Day in 1982.
The fixed date and federal scope
Canada Day remains fixed on 1 July. Under the Canada Labour Code, a Saturday or Sunday date that is not a normal working day leads to a paid holiday on the scheduled working day immediately before or after it for eligible federally regulated employees.
The calendar anniversary itself does not move. A workplace day off or valid substitute can be placed nearby, and provincial or territorial employment standards may apply different rules to employees outside federal jurisdiction.
Planning for Canada Day
Public programs, community gatherings and ceremonies vary by year and location. Their presence does not imply that all transport, retail or visitor services follow one schedule.
Use official local information for events, road restrictions and opening hours. Employees should consult the correct labour authority and their workplace documents rather than relying only on a nationwide calendar entry.
Common questions about Canada Day
When is Canada Day?
Canada Day is fixed on 1 July.
When did Dominion Day become Canada Day?
The official name changed to Canada Day in 1982.