Canada: home to wide open spaces, maple syrup, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. But there’s so much more to this massive country than meets the eye.
As the second-largest country in the world, Canada is packed with surprises. From its unique geographical features to its quirky cultural habits, Canada offers a diverse and captivating range of interesting trivia.
So, get ready to dive into some truly fun facts in Canada, covering everything from its geography and history to its unique nature and culture. Prepare to be amazed by this incredible nation!
Geography and natural wonders
Canada is a land of superlatives. It’s big, beautiful, and full of surprises.
Size and coastline
- Canada is the second-largest country in the world, covering 9.98 million square kilometers.
- It has the world’s longest coastline, stretching over 202,080 kilometers. That’s a lot of beach!
- Canada shares the world’s longest international border with the United States, spanning 8,891 km.
Lakes and water
- If you love lakes, Canada is the place to be. It has more lakes than any other country in the world — more than two million, or about 60% of all the lakes on Earth.
- The Bay of Fundy is famous for having the highest tides on Earth, reaching up to 53 feet.
Unique locations
- Want to go really far north? Visit Alert, Canada, the world’s northernmost settlement.
- If you want to see some icebergs, head to “Iceberg Alley,” off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Wildlife and wilderness
Canada is known for having a ton of untouched wilderness, and all that land allows animals to thrive.
Abundant wildlife
From the Arctic tundra to the Pacific rainforests, Canada has an incredibly diverse set of ecosystems. In fact, Canada is home to the world’s largest population of moose, with about 830,000 of the animals roaming the country.
If you’re a fan of polar bears, you may want to visit Churchill, Manitoba, which is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.”
National animal
The beaver is Canada’s national animal, and it symbolizes hard work and a connection to nature.
Natural wonders
Boreal forests are critical to the earth’s ecosystem, and they cover more than 60% of the land in Canada.
If you’re a fan of sand dunes, you may be interested to know that the Athabasca Sand Dunes in Saskatchewan are the most northerly active sand dunes in the world.
Culture and Traditions
Canada has a unique culture that’s both familiar and surprising.
Bilingualism and Multiculturalism
Canada is a country where both English and French are official languages. In fact, you’ll find that many products have both English and French on the label.
Canada also has a long history of welcoming immigrants, which has led to a diverse and multicultural society.
National Symbols and Sports
The maple leaf is probably Canada’s best-known symbol, appearing on the flag and in various other places.
When it comes to sports, hockey is the national winter sport, and lacrosse is the national summer sport.
Canadians also have a special relationship with poutine, a comfort food made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Cultural Quirks
Here are some other fun facts about Canadian culture and traditions:
- Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October, which is earlier than the U.S. celebration.
- Canadians eat more Kraft Mac & Cheese than any other country in the world.
- Canadians call their one-dollar coin a “loonie” and their two-dollar coin a “toonie.”
History and Inventions
Canada has a rich history that stretches back millennia. Here are a few historical facts you might find interesting.
Indigenous Roots
The name “Canada” comes from the St. Lawrence Iroquoian word “kanata,” which means “village” or “settlement.” Early European explorers used this name to refer to the region, and it eventually became the name of the entire country.
Key Inventions
Canadians have been responsible for some pretty important inventions:
- The telephone: Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone while living in Canada.
- Basketball: James Naismith, a Canadian physical education instructor, invented basketball in 1891.
Independence and Monarchy
While Canada has a long history, it only officially claimed independence in 1982. The country is still a constitutional monarchy, with King Charles III as its monarch.
Unique Facts and Trivia
Canada’s a fascinating place. Here are a few unique bits of trivia you might not know:
Maple Syrup Production
If you love maple syrup, you can thank Canada. The country produces most of the world’s supply.
Unusual Phenomena
If you’re ever in Moncton, New Brunswick, check out Magnetic Hill, a tourist attraction based on an optical illusion. When you drive up to the hill, it looks and feels as though your car is rolling uphill, even though it’s actually going downhill.
International Relations
The Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa is a sure sign that spring has arrived. After World War II, the Dutch royal family gifted Canada with thousands of tulip bulbs as a thank you for providing refuge to Princess Juliana and her daughters during the war. Every year, Canada still receives 10,000 tulip bulbs from the Netherlands as a gesture of ongoing friendship.
The Bottom Line
Between its natural wonders, cultural quirks, and historical firsts, Canada is a remarkable country with a lot to offer. It’s home to a diverse population, a wide array of wildlife, and vast, beautiful landscapes.
Whether you’re interested in the country’s multicultural society, its innovative spirit, or its unique geography, Canada offers a rich and interesting array of experiences and facts.
If you’re planning a trip to Canada, take some time to learn about the country’s history and culture before you go. And whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply curious about the world, Canada’s unique charm and captivating trivia are sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for this incredible country.