Canada Day Word Games Packet

You know by now that I love word games. Paper, printable, digital or apps: it’s all the same to me. And Canada Day is one of my favourite summer events, kicking off the summer season for many of us. So, combine Canada Day word games into a bundle or a packet and that is a recipe to share!

Canada Day History

Initially known as “Dominion Day,” Canada Day became Canada Day on October 27, 1982. The change reflected a growing sense of a distinct Canadian identity, separate from its colonial ties. 

Canada adopted the iconic maple leaf flag in 1965. Seventeen years later, the patriation of the Canadian Constitution took place (1982.) This event transferred the country’s highest law from British to Canadian authority.

A Day of Festivities

Across the country, Canada Day is a vibrant public holiday featuring a wide array of celebrations. Communities large and small host parades, concerts, festivals, and family-friendly activities. Barbecues and picnics are a common tradition, bringing together friends and families to enjoy the summer weather. Over the years we have caught numerous spectacular fireworks displays, a hallmark of the national celebration.

Don’t miss my Canada Day Maze printable, a popular download here.

Where to Go

Most major city parks have a fireworks celebration. In London, Ontario, Canada Day often coincides with Sunfest, a multicultural celebration at Victoria Park downtown.

In Ottawa, Parliament Hill in the nation’s capital holds thew official ceremony annually and it is well worth the trip. The event typically features musical performances by Canadian artists, speeches from dignitaries, and a ceremonial flag-raising.  No matter where you live in the country, if you want a celebration, you can probably find one, but Ottawa’s celebrations are a highlight. I mean, if there’s one thing the nation’s capital does well, it is throwing a party.

Culture, History and Reconciliation

Of course, I’d be negligent if I didn’t note that Canada Day celebrations need to be tempered with this reality. We live on land stolen from people that were here before we were.

Here are Some Ways to Educate Yourself Re: Reconciliation and How We Can Do Better

Make time to read about the true history of the country.

Attend a traditional pow wow and amplify indigenous voices.

Read the 94 recommendations out of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Make your own commitment to doing better and acknowledging the painful truth about Canada’s history. Read books by indigenous peoples and learn.

Interesting Facts About Canada’s National Day:

• Actors Dan Aykroyd and Pamela Anderson share their birthday with the nation.
• The Origin of “Canada”: The name “Canada” originated from the Huron-Iroquois word “kanata,” meaning “village” or “settlement.” French explorer Jacques Cartier misunderstood the term to refer to the entire region.
• While the first official Dominion Day was held on July 1, 1867, it was 1879 when it became a statutory holiday. The early celebrations were often modest and localized.
• A Symbol of Unity: Canada Day historically has been an opportunity for Canadians to celebrate their country’s multicultural fabric. The vast and diverse landscapes, the shared values of peace, freedom, and inclusivity have always been held in high regard.

Remember to check out my Free Printable Pinterest Board where I have some other popular word games.

How to Use these Games:

To Print these word games out this month, you can right click on any of the images above and save and print off of your computer. Please do not reprint on your own site without attribution.

Or download the entire lot of word games here:

The answer key is included at the end of the word games package so use that if you are stuck.

No matter how you celebrate, I wish you a happy Canada Day!