30 Interesting & Fun Facts about Canada
Canada is a scenic destination that boasts the longest coastline in the world and is home to stunning natural wonders. From its rich history to quirky knowledge, these 30 compelling facts about Canada take you on a deep dive into the northern wonderland.
25 facts about Canada
With its broad history and unique culture, there are many interesting things to learn about Canada. Let’s look in detail about Canada’s history, landscape, and people:
1. Canada is a monarchy
Canada maintains strong historical bonds with the United Kingdom, through shared royal lineage - King Charles III is the current UK monarch and also the monarch of Canada, acting primarily in a symbolic role but still forming an integral part of Canada's intricate governmental structure.
2. Canada has the longest coastline in the world
Canada should be at the top of your bucket list if you are captivated by incredible coastal views. Canada's coastline stretches a remarkable 202,080 kilometres. Walking it would take more than four and a half years!
3. Canada has the longest international border
The border separating Canada and the United States stretches an incredible 8,891 kilometres - longer than any other bilateral boundary on our planet. The two countries have a history of peaceful cohabitation and mutual respect, giving it the apt nickname: "The World’s Friendliest Border."
4. The word “Canada” is derived from an indigenous word
Canada carries a history that ties it to the roots of the indigenous peoples. The St. Lawrence Iroquoian tribe named their village "Kanata," which means settlement or village in their language. European explorer Jacques Cartier mistakenly thought the term referred to the entire area, not just one village.
5. The French and British were not the first Europeans to colonise Canada
Rewind to around five centuries ago: Leif Erikson, a Norse explorer from Iceland, set foot on Canadian soil - specifically Newfoundland - becoming possibly the first-ever European to do so.
6. An Italian claimed Canada for England
An Italian explorer named John Cabot initially claimed parts of Canada for England. In 1497, under commission from Henry VII of England, John Cabot set sail on the Matthew with sights set firmly on Asia. Instead of reaching the Spice Islands as he had hoped, he landed on what he thought were the outskirts of Asia; in reality, it was modern-day Newfoundland.
7. The national animal of Canada is a beaver
Engraved into the fabric of Canadian society lies a fluffy, semi-aquatic creature - the North American Beaver. This humble animal was instrumental in developing Canada's economic ecosystem during fur trading times.
8. Canada has a lot of top actors and artists
Some of Hollywood’s most celebrated personalities and famous musicians originally come from Canada, including Jim Carrey, Celine Dion, Ryan Renolds and Chris Evans. Most of them now live in the US but are Canadian through and through.
9. Canada can reach chillingly low temperatures
It should come as no surprise that a country known for its long winters and snowy landscapes holds quite a chilly record, but it can reach extremes. On February 3, 1947, in the small village of Snag in Yukon territory, the mercury plummeted to an astonishing -63 degrees Celsius (-81.4 Fahrenheit).
10. Quebec is the only walled city in North America
Quebec City's ramparts are not merely decorative additions; they once served as an austere defence purpose against invaders. Built by French and British between the 17th and 19th centuries, these fortifications symbolise resilience and endurance - a relic from an era long past.
11. Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving too
Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. Canada’s version of Thanksgiving was celebrated for over forty years before it existed in the United States. The early onset dates back to 1578 when English explorer Martin Frobisher held a ceremony in Newfoundland to give thanks for a successful voyage.
12. Canada welcomes immigration proudly
Canada's commitment to a multicultural society can trace its roots back to 1971 when it officially adopted a very open immigration policy. Since then, people from around the globe have continued turning this vibrant country into their new home.
13. Canadians speak far more languages than just English and French
Canada is home to over 200 other mother tongues, defined as the "first language spoken." In a recent census, nearly two million people reported an Indigenous language as their mother tongue. Moreover, reflecting its openness to immigration, sizable pockets of the population also converse in Punjabi, Italian, German, Cantonese, and Tagalog.
14. Without lakes, Canada would be the fourth-largest country in the world
Canada is home to more than two million lakes! That constitutes around 60% of the total number of lakes globally. If the lakes were gone, Canada wouldn't rank as the second-largest country in the world anymore. Experience the stunning jade green colours of Lake Louise for yourself on our Canada & The Rocky Mountaineer tour.
15. Lacrosse is the national sport of Canada
While ice hockey might be considered by many as an undeniably integral part of Canadian heritage, it's lacrosse that holds the honour of being named Canada's official summer sport. Lacrosse has a vibrant history in Canada. This exciting game was developed by Indigenous nations in North America long before Europeans arrived on these shores.
16. Canada claimed independence in 1982
1982 marks a pivotal moment in Canadian history when the nation finally attained full sovereignty. Until this point, Canada remained under British rule for legal and constitutional matters. This all changed on April 17, 1982 - now 'Constitution Day' - when Queen Elizabeth II signed the Constitution Act into law.
17. The longest highway in the world is in Canada
With a staggering length of approximately 7,821 kilometres (or roughly 4,860 miles), the Trans-Canada highway stretches from Victoria in British Columbia on the Pacific Coast to St. John's in Newfoundland and Labrador on the Atlantic Coast. Built in 1962, it was designed as part of a national scheme to encourage travel and trade within Canada.
18. Canadian banknotes are made of plastic
Unlike traditional paper or cloth notes in many nations, Canada utilises plastic banknotes. This uncommon practice is not simply a quirk; it has several practical reasons behind it. Surprisingly, these plastic bills have a lesser carbon footprint than paper money.
19. Canada’s national drink contains clam juice
Canada’s national beverage contains a rather unusual ingredient – clam juice. The 'Caesar' is an intriguing blend of vodka, Clamato (clam broth mixed with tomato juice), Tabasco hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lime served over ice in a glass rimmed with celery salt.
20. Eighty-five per cent of the world's maple syrup comes from Canada
Every pancake lover will be delighted to learn that almost eighty-five per cent of the globe's maple syrup hails from Canada! As part of their syrup enterprise, families have passed down lands filled with rock maple trees through generations.
21. The telephone was invented in Canada
Inventor Alexander Graham Bell, a Scottish immigrant residing in Brantford, Ontario, is credited with inventing the telephone in 1876. It's an invention that undeniably changed the world, tangibly shrinking vast distances into manageable lengths.
22. British Columbia’s forest land is larger than France
British Columbia boasts over 60 million hectares of lush forested land. In contrast, while France is undoubtedly vast and famed for its diverse regions hosting wineries and iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower - it spreads only across approximately 55 million hectares in totality. Take in these lush forests and stunning mountain ranges as you take an unforgettable journey on the Rocky Mountaineer.
23. Canada is the polar bear capital of the world
Churchill in Manitoba is known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World" due to its large polar bear population, which can be seen during specific times of the year. Of course, they are still wild bears, not domesticated.
24. Canada has the world's largest collection of Inuit art
The Winnipeg Art Gallery in Manitoba boasts the world's largest collection of contemporary Inuit art, featuring stunning sculptures, prints, and textiles created by Indigenous artists.
25. A Canadian invented basketball
Basketball, one of the world's most popular sports, was invented by Canadian James Naismith in 1891. Unlike the modern equipment, the first game was played with a football and two peach baskets.
5 Fun facts about Canada
Looking for some fun facts about this fantastic country? Look no further.
26. There was a war in Canada called the “Beaver Wars”
The Beaver Wars got its name from the coveted animal itself; yet, it was not a war between these dam-building creatures but humans vying for power and control over territories rich in fur, particularly that of beavers.
27. Santa Claus technically lives in Canada
Santa technically resides in Canada. A fun fact often brings smiles when sharing about Canadians. Children around the globe pen down their Christmas wishes and send letters addressed to Santa at this specific postal code - "H0H 0H0".
28. Canada has nicknames for their coins
Canadians will quickly tell you about their affectionate nicknames for their coins. The "Loonie," whose formal name is a dollar, got its nickname from depicting a bird called the Common Loon on its reverse side. A two-dollar coin is called a “Toonie” and is an amalgamation of “two” and “loonie”.
29. Canadians love mac and cheese
Canadians have a profound love for Macaroni and Cheese. Canadians consume fifty-five per cent more Mac & Cheese compared to the U.S.A., making them the leading global consumers of this mouth-watering delight.
30. Canada is home to Magnetic Hill
This is a unique tourist attraction. Located in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada is home to the famous "Magnetic Hill." Here, an optical illusion makes it appear like cars can roll uphill independently.
Discover Canada’s History & Culture with Just You
Start an incredible journey through Canada, a land of vast beauty, rich history, and diverse culture, with Just You, your trusted partner for solo travel adventures. With our tours, you'll not only experience the timeless beauty and vibrant culture of Canada but also connect with fellow travellers who share your passion for exploration. Our tours are designed to create lasting memories and provide an authentic experience of Canada, a country renowned for its natural wonders and diverse traditions.
Our Canada & The Rocky Mountaineer Tour invites you to delve into the breath-taking landscapes of Western Canada, where the majestic Rocky Mountains stand tall. You'll have the opportunity to journey aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train, witnessing awe-inspiring vistas and untouched wilderness at Banff and Jasper National Parks.