Canadian Culture
Canadian
culture is the term used to describe the artistic, musical, literary, culinary,
political and social elements that are representative of Canada; not only to
its own population, but people all over the world. Canada's culture has
historically been influenced by European culture and traditions, especially
British and French traditions.
Along with its European origin, there are now currently many other incorporated cultures which have come from Canada’s immigrant countries and its Aboriginal peoples over time. Canadian culture is also simultaneously being influenced by American culture because of its proximity and migration between the two countries.
The country’s history, political system and geography are what shape the Canadian culture, just like most of any country in the world. Canada is a major hub for immigrants and settlers, and because of the many international migrants who have settled into the country, Canada’s original culture is blending with other countries’ unique cuisine, traditions and customs. This cultural diversity has marked the socio-cultural development of the nation.
Canada has its own official symbols, and these consist of the maple leaf, beaver and the Canadian horse. The Canadian flag has been changed and re-designed over time so as not to have European reference and to ‘Canadianize’ it, which is why it now has a red maple leaf in the centre.
Throughout the year, there are many cultural events in the country. Festivals range from the internationally acclaimed Montreal Jazz Festival in Quebec to the lesser known Moose Jaw Kinsmen International Band & Choral Festival in Saskatchewan... and everything in between. The change of seasons, rural fairs, agricultural displays, rodeos, comedy festivals, playhouses and anniversaries of historical events.... whatever the occasion, Canadians will celebrate it. Below are some examples of the most popular festivals celebrated by Canadians:
· Winter Carnival, Quebec City (Quebec)
· Celtic Colours, Cape Breton Island (Nova Scotia)
· Festival du Voyageur, Winnipeg (Manitoba)
· Calgary Stampede (Alberta)
· Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival (British Columbia)
· Dawson City Music Festival (Yukon)
· Caribana (Toronto)
· Festival Acadien, Caraquet (New Brunswick)
Along with its European origin, there are now currently many other incorporated cultures which have come from Canada’s immigrant countries and its Aboriginal peoples over time. Canadian culture is also simultaneously being influenced by American culture because of its proximity and migration between the two countries.
The country’s history, political system and geography are what shape the Canadian culture, just like most of any country in the world. Canada is a major hub for immigrants and settlers, and because of the many international migrants who have settled into the country, Canada’s original culture is blending with other countries’ unique cuisine, traditions and customs. This cultural diversity has marked the socio-cultural development of the nation.
Canada has its own official symbols, and these consist of the maple leaf, beaver and the Canadian horse. The Canadian flag has been changed and re-designed over time so as not to have European reference and to ‘Canadianize’ it, which is why it now has a red maple leaf in the centre.
Throughout the year, there are many cultural events in the country. Festivals range from the internationally acclaimed Montreal Jazz Festival in Quebec to the lesser known Moose Jaw Kinsmen International Band & Choral Festival in Saskatchewan... and everything in between. The change of seasons, rural fairs, agricultural displays, rodeos, comedy festivals, playhouses and anniversaries of historical events.... whatever the occasion, Canadians will celebrate it. Below are some examples of the most popular festivals celebrated by Canadians:
· Winter Carnival, Quebec City (Quebec)
· Celtic Colours, Cape Breton Island (Nova Scotia)
· Festival du Voyageur, Winnipeg (Manitoba)
· Calgary Stampede (Alberta)
· Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival (British Columbia)
· Dawson City Music Festival (Yukon)
· Caribana (Toronto)
· Festival Acadien, Caraquet (New Brunswick)