What's Up Canada

10/06/2023

The Legacy of Terry Fox

In 1980, Canadian athlete and cancer research activist Terry Fox embarked on the Marathon of Hope. After losing a leg to cancer, Terry aimed to run across Canada on a prosthetic limb to raise funds for cancer research.

While he couldn't complete his journey due to the return of his cancer, Terry's spirit captured the nation's heart. Today, the Terry Fox Run is an annual event held worldwide, raising millions for cancer research in his memory.

10/05/2023

Cape Spear: First to See the Sunrise

Located in Newfoundland, Cape Spear is the easternmost point in North America. This distinction means it's often the first place on the continent to witness the sunrise.

The Cape Spear Lighthouse, a National Historic Site, stands sentinel, guiding mariners and providing a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century lighthouse keeper.

10/05/2023

Vimy Ridge and National Identity

Vimy Ridge holds a special place in the Canadian national consciousness. In April 1917, during WWI, the Canadian Corps captured this strategic ridge in France from the Germans.

While the victory came at a steep cost with over 10,000 casualties, the battle is often considered a defining moment for Canada, transitioning from a dominion to a nation in its own right. The beautiful Vimy Memorial stands today in tribute to those who served and sacrificed.

10/03/2023

Fun Fact Canada - The Only Walled City North of Mexico

Quebec City is the only city in North America outside of Mexico with its original city walls still intact. Old Quebec, with its historic architecture and cobblestone streets, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

10/03/2023

The Evolution of the Canadian Dollar

Historically, in the early stages of Canadian colonization by Britain, inhabitants used a diverse mix of currencies for transactions. This included the British pound, U.S. dollar, Spanish peso, as well as distinct colonial currencies issued by regional banks and authorities.

However, with the unification of Canada in 1867, the newly established Canadian government was granted sole jurisdiction over currency matters.

Leveraging this authority, the government introduced the Dominion Notes Act in 1870, now referred to as the Currency Act. This legislation cemented the Canadian Dollar ($) as Canada's official currency, subdivided into 100 Canadian cents (₵).

10/02/2023

It's International Raccoon Appreciation Day! 🦝 Celebrate with us and learn some unique facts about this amazing creature. Did you know that a group of raccoons is called a “nursery” or that they are one of the few creatures that appear capable of making the adjustment from family pet back to wild animal? 🤔 Share this post to spread the love and appreciation for these furry friends! 💕
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C’est la Journée internationale du raton laveur! 🦝 Célébrez avec nous et venez apprendre à mieux connaître ce mammifère surprenant. Il est d’ailleurs l’un des rares animaux qui semblent être capables de se réadapter à la vie sauvage après avoir été apprivoisés. 🤔 Partagez ce message pour encourager les autres à les découvrir! 💕
📸 1: Brenda Doherty | 2: Ryan Courson | 3: Robin Powell

10/02/2023

Fun Fact Canada - Bagged Milk

In parts of Canada, especially in Ontario, milk is often sold in bags rather than jugs or cartons. Each package typically contains three bags totaling 4 liters of milk. It's an iconic Canadian twist on dairy distribution.

10/01/2023

Fun Fact Canada - Haida Gwaii: Canada's Galápagos

Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is an archipelago off the northern Pacific coast of Canada. Rich in Indigenous Haida culture, it's also a biodiversity hotspot, often compared to Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands.

09/30/2023

Fun fact: Canada - A Haven for Lakes

Canada has more lakes than all other countries combined. Of the world's total freshwater, a staggering 20% is found in Canada, with the Great Lakes (shared with the United States) being the largest freshwater system.

These lakes have been vital for trade, transportation, and sustenance for Indigenous peoples and settlers alike.

09/30/2023

Fun act Canada - Maple Syrup Capital

Canada produces about 71% of the world's pure maple syrup, with the province of Quebec being the largest producer. This sweet treat is made from the sap of sugar maple trees during the spring thaw.

The process of making maple syrup is a cherished tradition, and the product is an emblem of Canadian culinary culture.

09/30/2023

Toronto Facts - High Park:

This 400-acre park, located in the west end of Toronto, is a blend of recreational facilities, natural areas, and cultivated gardens.

During spring, the park's cherry blossom trees are a significant attraction, drawing thousands of visitors. High Park also contains Grenadier Pond, a large zoo, and multiple children's playgrounds, making it a beloved green space in the city.

Approximately one-third of the park is preserved in its natural form, showcasing a unique oak savannah ecosystem. Established for public use in 1876, High Park owes its existence to the generous land donation by John George Howard to the City of Toronto.

09/29/2023

Fun Fact Canada - Trans-Canada Highway: A Mammoth Road Trip

Stretching over 7,800 kilometers from Victoria, British Columbia, to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, the Trans-Canada Highway is one of the world's longest national highways.

Driving from one end to the other takes you through diverse landscapes, including mountains, prairies, and coastal areas, encapsulating Canada's geographical splendor.

09/29/2023

The x Winnipeg Jets jersey is here! This is one of the many ways we’ll be celebrating our 100th birthday next year! 🏒🎉

09/29/2023

Now’s the time to start dreaming of the next destination to check off your bucket list!✅💚
In honour of , plan the adventure of a lifetime! 🤩 You could create magical moments and unique experiences in some of our country's most beautiful places. ✨ https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel
Which Parks Canada location is next on your list? 👀 Tell us in the comments! 🌈

Now’s the time to start dreaming of the next destination to check off your bucket list!✅💚

In honour of , plan the adventure of a lifetime! 🤩 You could create magical moments and unique experiences in some of our country's most beautiful places. ✨ https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel

Which Parks Canada location is next on your list? 👀 Tell us in the comments! 🌈

09/29/2023

What’s better than an energy spike in the morning?! …Two! 📈📈

Have your daily coffee but make it the perfect BLEND ☕ by combining it with a natural dopamine boost from Mother Nature herself! 🌲🌳 Spend this and upcoming the best way and enjoy your favourite hot beverage in your favourite Parks Canada place with your favourite people, doing your favourite outdoor activity! ❤️ And don’t forget to let us know what place you’ll go to! ⬇⬇⬇

Want your own Parks Canada coffee mug? Get it here! ➡ https://parkscanadashop.ca/collections/accessories/drinkware

09/29/2023

09/29/2023

On our way to Gatineau for the Aero Gatineau-Ottawa next weekend! Looking forward to our show in the province of Quebec! 🙌

09/29/2023

Last weekend, we did our final Canadian show of 2023.🇨🇦
Thank you to all our Canadian fans who constantly show their love and support. We love you all, and we can’t wait to celebrate 🥳 in 2024!!🫶

09/29/2023

09/29/2023

We're pumped for day 1 in Huntington Beach for the Pacific Airshow! Smoke ON at 11:45. 💨

09/29/2023

A Strong Indigenous Heritage

Canada is home to a diverse range of Indigenous peoples, including the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. Their histories, cultures, and languages have been an integral part of the Canadian fabric for thousands of years.

Totem poles, which are monumental carvings from the Pacific Northwest's Indigenous peoples, stand as a testament to their rich artistic and cultural heritage.

09/29/2023

Canada - The Northernmost Settlement

Alert, in Nunavut, is the northernmost permanently inhabited place in the world. Located just 817 kilometers from the North Pole, it experiences extreme Arctic conditions.

Primarily a military and research station, Alert plays a crucial role in monitoring atmospheric conditions and Arctic sovereignty.

09/29/2023

Canada Is The Host to the World's Largest Inland Island

Manitoulin Island, situated in Lake Huron, holds the title of the world's largest freshwater island. Covering an area of 2,766 square kilometers, Manitoulin is not just vast in size, but it's also rich in Indigenous history.

The island is home to the Anishinaabe people, who have resided there for millennia, and their cultural heritage remains vibrant and integral to the island's identity.

09/29/2023

Canada Has The World's Longest Coastline

Canada boasts the world's longest coastline, stretching over 202,080 kilometers. This vast stretch touches three oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic.

Due to this extensive coastline, Canada has a diverse range of marine ecosystems, from temperate rainforests along the Pacific coast to the icy waters of the Arctic.

The length and diversity of the coastline make Canada an ideal location for marine research, fisheries, and tourism.