In Canada, the first Monday of August is a civic holiday.
Celebrations of the Civic Holiday can be found as far back as the mid-1850s. The holiday was declared by the mayor of the city or town, usually to commemorate a local historical figure or event.
While this mid-summer holiday in not a statutory holiday in Ontario, it is generally observed by businesses, institutions, and the government.
Regardless, it is great to have a long weekend during the summer to visit with friends and family, go to the beach or have a picnic.
Be sure to tell people to look into the Canada Learning Bond – you never know who might qualify for up to $2,000 in free money for post-secondary education.