Victoria Day is a Canadian public holiday on the Monday before May 25th. This holiday represents the birthday of Queen Victoria (May 24th) and is commonly known amongst young populations as May 2-4 weekend (representing a 24 pack of beer). Although this long weekend pays tribute to the Queen of Canada’s Commonwealth Nation, it has now become a popular weekend which signifies the beginning of summer.
In Canada, we often joke that there are only 2 seasons; winter and construction season. The latter of the two stretches from the long awaited thaw of March right through until snowfall in November. This becomes very frustrating as a Canadian traveler. But, that’s not to say that we pen ourselves up and refuse to escape on holidays such as the Victoria Day long-weekend! Because we’re shackled in all winter, we tend to pack up the car, drive into the thick combination of traffic and construction just grinning and bearing it the whole time. We certainly are troopers!
So, that brings us back to travelling on this Victoria Day long-weekend in 2012. What will this year bring and what adventures are there to explore with that extra day off? Well, many people open up their cottages, plant gardens, or just get away.
Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa and Halifax are drawing local visitors with their exciting combination of parties, celebrations, live music and firework displays. If you’re planning on visiting one of Canada’s big cities, you’ll no doubt be in for a treat. How about taking a chilly ride on one of the Ottawa Valley’s white water rafting tours?
Another great idea is to check out last minute vacation deals to the Caribbean for a 4-day vacation. Why not spend this long-weekend in the white sandy beaches of the islands? Do your research on www.lastminutevacations.ca and you just might find a great deal for this Victoria Day weekend.
Whatever it is you decide to do, enjoy our Canadian holiday to welcome the summer of 2012!