FORMERLY called Dominion Day, Canada Day is the national holiday of Canada. The July 1st holiday was established in 1879.
Read more about the origin of Canada Day, or visit some suggested Canada Day links. Fun and learning for everyone.
Lyrics of O Canada, the National Anthem
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada
We stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, glorious and free,
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada! Where pines and maples grow.
Great prairies spread and lordly rivers flow.
How dear to us thy broad domain,
From East to Western Sea,
Thou land of hope for all who toil!
Thou True North, strong and free!
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada! Beneath thy shining skies
May stalwart sons and gentle maidens rise,
To keep thee steadfast through the years
From East to Western Sea,
Our own beloved native land!
Our True North, strong and free!
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Ruler supreme, who hearest humble prayer,
Hold our dominion within thy loving care;
Help us to find, O God, in thee
A lasting, rich reward,
As waiting for the Better Day,
We ever stand on guard.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
The History of the National Anthem
"O Canada" was proclaimed Canada's national anthem on July 1, 1980, 100 years after it was first sung on June 24, 1880. The music was composed
by Calixa Lavallee, a well-known composer; French lyrics to accompany the music were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier.
The song gained steadily in popularity. Many English versions have appeared over the years. The version on which the official
English lyrics are based was written in 1908 by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir. The official English version includes changes recommended
in 1968 by a Special Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Commons.
Other free online Canada Day resources are available here for your use, as well as recommended sites for you to visit.
The Origin of Canada Day - The Dominion of Canada is the second largest country
in the world. July 1st has been set aside for Canadians to celebrate their special day. The origin of how this special day came to be is explained here.
Resources - E-cards, Colouring pages, and crafts.
Trivia, and links to more Canada Day fun.
