Good Friday is a statutory holiday in many parts of Canada and just in time for the warmer, sunnier days of the year. The day is celebrated in different ways around the country but always leaves a memorable mark in every Canadian’s life.
The long-awaited holiday weekend is the perfect opportunity to make new and lasting memories. Here are 5 ways how Canadians make use of Good Friday and the accompanying Easter Weekend.
So, What’s Good About Good Friday?
1. Spending the day with family and getting out and about
Canada has a huge selection of fun leisure activities that can keep families entertained over a long weekend. Here is a list of exciting things to do on Good Friday in Canada:
- You can visit the local Zoo or one of the many historical and interactive museums in Canada;
- You can go on a wilderness horseback riding trip;
- You can hike through a local National Park; or
- You can even discover the local treasure troves at the many craft markets around the country.
2. Why Easter is important to Christians
Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ by going to special church services. Good Friday is a day of mourning and quiet prayer among many Christians. Some Catholics observe a partial fast on Good Friday and do not eat any meat for this occasion. Hot cross buns are a traditional treat on Good Friday because of the natural cross symbol on top of the doughy treat.
3. Watching a Hockey Game
Hockey is Canada’s third official language- hockynese… Sport enthusiasts line up the seats of a hockey arena to watch their favorite teams in action.
Fun Fact: The contemporary sport of ice hockey was developed in Canada around 1830, and established most notably in Montreal.
4. Joining the Easter Parade in Toronto
The Easter Bunny arrives in style at the Easter Parade
Every spring the annual Beaches Lions Club Easter Parade brings Queen Street to life, with colour, music, fun and entertainment. The Parade begins at 2:00 pm and is free for everyone to join.
More than 100 floats, bands, and walkers will take part in the parade. The theme of the Parade is Easter Magic, and Canada delivers!