Victoria Day

This is a federal Canadian Public Holiday observed on the last Monday proceeding 25th May to honour Queen Victoria, who is known as the “Mother of the Confederation”. The holiday has existed since at least 1845, originally on Victoria’s natural birthday, 24th May. It is a federal state holiday, as well as a holiday in six of Canada’s ten provinces and all three of its territories. Several cities hold a parade, as well as fireworks. In Ottawa, the traditional Trooping the Colour ceremony takes place on Parliament Hill. It is considered the unofficial start of Summer.