99 Interesting Facts about Canada

Dan October 8, 2023

Canada, the second-largest country in the world by landmass, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, friendly populace, and rich cultural diversity. Located in North America, it is bordered by the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to the east and west respectively, while the Arctic Ocean lies to the north. The United States shares the longest international border with Canada, fostering a unique and close-knit relationship between the two nations.

Canada is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty. Vast forests, majestic mountain ranges like the Rocky Mountains and the Coast Mountains, serene lakes including the Great Lakes, and pristine coastlines contribute to its picturesque charm. The country is also famous for its national parks, such as Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe.

In addition to its natural wonders, Canada is admired for its multiculturalism. The nation prides itself on being a cultural mosaic, where immigrants from various backgrounds contribute to a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and customs. The cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, are vibrant melting pots, reflecting this cultural diversity through festivals, cuisine, and artistic expressions.

Canada has a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy, with Queen Elizabeth II as the reigning monarch. It is divided into ten provinces and three territories, each with its own unique geography, culture, and government. The country is known for its progressive social policies, high quality of life, and excellent healthcare and education systems.

Economically, Canada is a powerhouse, boasting a well-developed and diverse economy. Key industries include natural resources, manufacturing, technology, and services. The country is a major exporter of minerals, energy products, timber, and automotive products. It is also known for its high-quality healthcare system, social safety nets, and commitment to environmental sustainability.

Canada’s history is deeply intertwined with Indigenous peoples, European colonization, and the struggle for self-governance. The Indigenous peoples, who have lived on these lands for thousands of years, have made significant contributions to Canadian society and culture. European exploration and colonization, notably by the French and British, shaped much of the country’s early history. Over time, Canada evolved into a nation characterized by inclusivity, democracy, and respect for human rights, contributing to its esteemed standing on the global stage.

To know more about Canada, let’s take a look at these 99 interesting facts about Canada.

1. Landmass and Geography: Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area, after Russia. It spans a vast 9.98 million square kilometers. Its geography is incredibly diverse, featuring expansive coastlines, towering mountain ranges, lush forests, and picturesque prairies.
2. Longest Coastline: Canada boasts the longest coastline of any country globally, stretching over 202,080 kilometers (125,567 miles). The Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans surround its shores.
3. Abundance of Lakes: Known as the “Land of Lakes,” Canada has the world’s highest number of lakes. It’s estimated to have around 31,700 lakes larger than 3 square kilometers, showcasing the country’s remarkable freshwater resources.
4. Etymology of Canada: The name “Canada” finds its roots in the Indigenous Huron-Iroquois word “kanata,” which translates to “village” or “settlement.” French explorers adopted and anglicized this term.
5. Official Languages: Canada is officially bilingual, with two recognized languages: English and French. This linguistic duality is deeply ingrained in its identity, culture, and government.
6. The Maple Leaf Flag: In 1965, Canada adopted its distinctive national flag featuring a red maple leaf on a white square, flanked by two red bars. The Maple Leaf has since become a powerful symbol of Canadian identity.
7. Political System: Canada operates under a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, represented in Canada by the Governor General.
8. International Involvement: Canada is a prominent global player and a founding member of international organizations like the United Nations (UN) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
9. Canada Day: Celebrated on July 1st, Canada Day commemorates the enactment of the Constitution Act, 1867, which united three separate colonies into a single country called Canada.
10. Hockey Culture: Hockey holds a revered status in Canadian culture. The country is known for producing some of the world’s finest hockey players and has a rich history in the sport. It’s not just a game; it’s a deeply ingrained part of the national psyche.
11. Poutine: Poutine is a popular Canadian dish originating from Quebec. It comprises crispy fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, a delightful indulgence.
12. Niagara Falls: One of the most famous natural attractions globally, Niagara Falls, is partially in Canada. The falls straddle the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA.
13. Canadians Love Coffee: Canadians are avid coffee drinkers, with Tim Hortons being a beloved coffee shop chain across the country.
14. Mounties: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), known as Mounties, is a symbol of Canada and is renowned worldwide for their distinctive red serge uniforms and wide-brimmed Stetson hats.
15. Maple Syrup: Canada is the largest producer of maple syrup globally, with Quebec being a significant contributor.
16. Cultural Diversity: Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, boasting a rich blend of cultures and languages.
17. The Canadian Shield: This geological formation is one of the oldest on Earth, comprising rocks over 570 million years old. It spans much of Canada, showcasing ancient history.
18. Invention of Basketball: Basketball was invented by Canadian James Naismith in 1891.
19. Banff National Park: Established in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park and one of the world’s most breathtaking wilderness areas.
20. Canadians Love Ice Hockey: Ice hockey is not just a sport in Canada; it’s a passion. The country is home to numerous NHL teams, and the sport is an integral part of Canadian culture.
21. Trans-Canada Highway: Spanning over 7,800 kilometers, the Trans-Canada Highway is the second-longest continuous road in the world, offering stunning views of Canada’s diverse landscapes.
22. Multilingualism: Canada is known for its linguistic diversity. French is the official language of Quebec, while English predominates in the other provinces and territories.
23. Time Zones: Canada has six primary time zones, reflecting its vast east-west expanse.
24. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve: A paradise for surfers and nature enthusiasts, this reserve on Vancouver Island boasts rugged coastlines, rainforests, and abundant wildlife.
25. CN Tower: Standing tall in Toronto, the CN Tower was once the tallest freestanding structure globally and offers a glass-floored observation deck for breathtaking views.
26. Nunavut: Established in 1999, Nunavut is the newest and largest Canadian territory, primarily inhabited by Indigenous peoples.
27. Great Bear Rainforest: The Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia is one of the world’s largest temperate rainforests and a haven for diverse wildlife.
28. Canadian Rockies: Renowned for their majestic beauty, the Canadian Rockies offer stunning landscapes, mountainous terrain, and adventure activities like skiing and hiking.
29. Quebec Winter Carnival: Held annually in Quebec City, this winter carnival celebrates the joys of the cold season with ice sculptures, parades, and winter sports.
30. Longest Coast-to-Coast Train: The VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” is the longest coast-to-coast train journey in North America, traversing from Vancouver to Toronto.
31. Canadians Are Polite: Canadians are often stereotyped as exceedingly polite, with the phrase “sorry” being used generously in everyday conversation.
32. The Butter Tart: This delicious dessert is a staple in Canadian cuisine, featuring a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.
33. World’s Largest Moose: Moose are abundant in Canada, and the world’s largest moose statue stands tall in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
34. Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope: Terry Fox, a Canadian national hero, embarked on a marathon to raise funds for cancer research after losing his leg to the disease.
35. Northwest Territories Ice Roads: In winter, frozen lakes and rivers in the Northwest Territories become ice roads, essential for transportation in remote areas.
36. Beautiful Coastlines: Canada has the longest coastline of any nation globally, offering unparalleled beauty and numerous coastal activities.
37. O Canada: The national anthem of Canada, “O Canada,” was officially adopted in 1980, with both English and French versions.
38. Famous Artists: Canada has produced many renowned artists, including Emily Carr, Tom Thomson, and the Group of Seven, known for their stunning landscape paintings.
39. The Group of Seven: The Group of Seven was a famous group of Canadian landscape painters who were active from 1920 to 1933.
40. First Nations: Canada is home to a rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures, with diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities across the country.
41. Hockey Hall of Fame: Located in Toronto, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a shrine to all things hockey, honoring the sport’s greatest players and moments.
42. Canadians and Canoeing: Canadians have a deep affinity for canoeing, enjoying its serene and adventurous aspects across the country’s abundant lakes and rivers.
43. The Canadarm: Developed by the Canadian Space Agency, the Canadarm is a robotic arm used on Space Shuttles and the International Space Station.
44. The Cabot Trail: This scenic highway in Nova Scotia offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Cape Breton Highlands, and the Atlantic Ocean.
45. Polar Bears: Canada is home to a significant portion of the world’s polar bear population, particularly in the Arctic regions.
46. Lacrosse: Lacrosse is Canada’s official summer sport, reflecting Indigenous origins and popularity across the country.
47. The Aga Khan Museum: Located in Toronto, this museum celebrates Islamic art, culture, and heritage, promoting understanding and tolerance.
48. Biggest Moose Population: Canada hosts the largest moose population globally, with the animal being an iconic part of the country’s wildlife.
49. The Trans-Siberian Highway: Stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, this highway is the longest uninterrupted road in the world.
50. The Royal Tyrrell Museum: Located in Alberta, this museum is renowned for its impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and exhibits.
51. The Prairies: The Prairies, encompassing Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, are known for their vast expanses of grasslands and agriculture.
52. Whale Watching in Tadoussac: Tadoussac in Quebec is one of the best places globally for whale watching, especially for seeing beluga whales.
53. Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse: Situated in Nova Scotia, this picturesque lighthouse is one of the most photographed structures in Canada.
54. Banff National Park: Banff, Canada’s oldest national park, is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and outdoor adventures.
55. Haida Gwaii: Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is an archipelago in British Columbia with a rich Indigenous Haida culture.
56. Grosse Île: Located in the St. Lawrence River, Grosse Île served as a quarantine station for immigrants to Canada in the 19th century.
57. Toronto International Film Festival: TIFF is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals globally, attracting filmmakers and actors from around the world.
58. Peacekeeping: Canada is known for its active involvement in international peacekeeping missions, contributing to global stability and conflict resolution.
59. Official Flower: The national flower of Canada is the beautiful and iconic maple leaf.
60. The Easternmost Point: Cape Spear in Newfoundland is the easternmost point of North America, marking the first place the sun rises on the continent.
61. Highest Tides in the Bay of Fundy: The Bay of Fundy, between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, experiences the world’s highest tides, reaching up to 16 meters (53 feet).
62. The Vikings in Canada: It’s believed that the Vikings, specifically Leif Eriksson, reached Canada around the year 1000, making them some of the earliest European explorers.
63. The Toonie: Canada’s two-dollar coin is affectionately called the “toonie” due to its “two” denomination.
64. Montreal Bagels: Montreal is renowned for its unique style of bagels, distinct from the more commonly known New York-style bagels.
65. The Beaver: The beaver is a significant Canadian symbol, featured on the five-cent coin and representing industriousness and diligence.
66. Laurentian Mountains: These picturesque mountains, located in Quebec, offer outdoor recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty.
67. Mackenzie River: Canada’s longest river, the Mackenzie River, stretches over 4,200 kilometers (2,600 miles) and is a vital part of Canada’s geography.
68. Lawren Harris Paintings: Lawren Harris, a member of the Group of Seven, painted some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes, showcasing the country’s natural beauty.
69. Canadians and Nature: Canadians have a strong connection to nature, often spending time hiking, skiing, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.
70. Quebec Carnival: The Quebec Winter Carnival in Quebec City is one of the largest winter festivals globally, celebrating the joys of winter.
71. Highest Mountain in Canada: Mount Logan in Yukon is the highest peak in Canada, standing at 5,959 meters (19,551 feet) above sea level.
72. Joggins Fossil Cliffs: Located in Nova Scotia, the Joggins Fossil Cliffs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing a wealth of fossils.
73. Montreal International Jazz Festival: This festival in Montreal is the largest jazz festival in the world by the number of attendees, drawing music lovers from around the globe.
74. Michael Bublé: Renowned Canadian singer and songwriter Michael Bublé is celebrated globally for his jazz and pop music.
75. Canadians and Apologies: Canadians are known for their politeness and penchant for apologizing, even for things beyond their control.
76. Hockey Night in Canada: “Hockey Night in Canada” is a beloved institution, a longstanding tradition for Canadians to watch NHL hockey on Saturday nights.
77. Largest French-Speaking City Outside France: Montreal is the largest French-speaking city outside of Paris, making it a hub of French culture and arts.
78. Ontario’s Cottage Country: The Muskoka region in Ontario, often called “Cottage Country,” is a popular destination for Canadians seeking a peaceful retreat.
79. Canadian National Tower: The CN Tower in Toronto was the tallest freestanding structure globally until 2007, offering stunning views of the city.
80. Canadians and Timbits: Timbits, bite-sized doughnut holes from Tim Hortons, are a quintessential Canadian snack.
81. Yukon Quest: The Yukon Quest is a famous 1,600-kilometer international sled dog race, known for its challenging and rugged course.
82. Canadian Football League (CFL): The CFL is Canada’s professional football league, and the Grey Cup is its championship trophy.
83. Sourtoe Cocktail: In Dawson City, Yukon, you can join the Sourtoe Cocktail Club by drinking a cocktail garnished with a real, mummified human toe.
84. Canada’s Military Contributions: Canada has a long history of contributing to international peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts.
85. Nellie McClung: An influential Canadian suffragette, Nellie McClung played a significant role in achieving women’s right to vote in Canada.
86. Old Quebec: The Old Town of Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved historical architecture and cobblestone streets.
87. Cultural Festivals: Canada hosts a multitude of cultural festivals, celebrating various traditions, foods, and art from different communities.
88. Portuguese Presence: Toronto has a significant Portuguese population, and the city hosts a vibrant Portugal Day Festival.
89. Ice Wine: Canada, particularly Ontario’s Niagara region, is renowned for its production of sweet and delicious ice wine made from frozen grapes.
90. Fredericton Lighthouse: The only downtown lighthouse in Canada is located in Fredericton, New Brunswick, adding a unique touch to the city’s scenery.
91. Maritime Provinces: The Maritime Provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island) are known for their stunning coastlines, seafood, and maritime culture.
92. Samuel de Champlain: Known as the “Father of New France,” Samuel de Champlain played a crucial role in founding Quebec City in 1608.
93. Canadians and Celine Dion: Celine Dion, a Canadian singer, songwriter, and businesswoman, is a global icon, known for her powerful voice and emotional ballads.
94. Canadians and Winter Sports: Canadians excel in winter sports, with hockey, skiing, snowboarding, and curling being popular pastimes.
95. Canada’s National Tower: The CN Tower in Toronto offers a glass floor where visitors can stand and look straight down to the ground below.
96. Moose Jaw Tunnels: Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, has an underground network of tunnels once used for various illicit activities during Prohibition.
97. Group of Seven Painters: The Group of Seven were Canadian landscape painters who passionately depicted the natural beauty of Canada in their art.
98. Tofino, British Columbia: Tofino is a picturesque small town known for its surf culture, beautiful beaches, and stunning Pacific Ocean views.
99. The 100th Meridian West: The 100th meridian west is a significant longitudinal line in Canada, marking the eastern border of the Canadian Prairies.

Canada stands as a nation with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the quaint fishing villages of the Maritimes, this vast land offers a spectrum of experiences. Its people, renowned for their politeness and welcoming nature, reflect the diverse and inclusive essence of the nation. Canadians take pride in their achievements, from pioneering innovations to their contributions to global peacekeeping efforts.

Canada’s story is ongoing, shaped by the interplay of its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and the shared values of compassion and inclusivity. As it moves forward, the Great White North continues to leave an indelible mark on the world stage, not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its contributions to art, science, and the well-being of humanity. Canada remains an enduring beacon of hope, a land where the spirit of exploration, diversity, and kindness continues to thrive.