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Each year, people across Canada look forward to thrilling winter festivals. While winter in Canada can be cold, Canadians celebrate and make the best of winter! Winter is a huge part of the culture reflected in Canadian art, music, literature, lifestyle, and sports. And, there are many activities to enjoy!
Winter festivals take place in small and large cities across Canada and add joy, warmth, and fun to the season. For newcomers, attending a winter festival is a great way to experience and embrace life in Canada! So let’s explore some of the most spectacular winter festivals, starting in Canada’s capital city, Ottawa.
Winterlude has something for everyone. From ice skating to brilliant light displays, Winterlude perfectly illustrates the best of Canadian winters. If you find yourself lucky enough to be in Ottawa during the winter, don’t miss out on the frosty fun that awaits you at Winterlude. This spectacular winter festival features ice sculptures, food, drinks, and many attractions. Most events and activities occur during the first three weekends of February, and many are free!
Another exciting event that takes place during Winterlude is the National Ice-Carving Championship. The most talented ice sculptors from around Canada come to Confederation Park in Ottawa to display their ice sculptures. You can vote for your favourite ice sculptures to decide on three winners.
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada’s capital city is also the world’s ice skating capital. Every winter, the Rideau Canal freezes and becomes the largest natural ice rink in the world and perfect for skating. Starting near Parliament Hill in Ottawa, the Rideau Canal runs 7.8 km. Each year, about 20,000 people head to the frozen Rideau Canal during Winterlude to ice skate.
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Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s biggest attractions. Tourists from around the world visit Niagara Falls to admire its breathtaking scenery. During the winter season, Niagara Falls lights up and transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
Every winter, the Winter Festival of Lights takes place in Niagara Falls. The festival consists of an 8 km route where you can admire all the marvelous displays. The Winter Festival of Lights is full of exciting events and exhibitions such as the Floral House and the light displays at Queen Victoria Park.
No list of Canadian winter festivals is complete without the Carnaval de Quebec. Quebec’s Winter Carnival is one of the oldest winter festivals in Canada. It is also one of the biggest, hosting over 400,000 people from around the world each year.
Few cities manage to celebrate winter as well as Quebec City. Bonhomme is a big, friendly snowman and the symbol of the whole festival. Bonhomme made his first appearance in the winter of 1955. Since then, Bonhomme has become a familiar and welcome sight to the citizens of Quebec City. Every year, an ice palace is built for Bonhomme and it is the center of all the activities and events.
Talking about events and activities, there is a lot to do and explore in Carnaval De Quebec. In addition to activities like ice skating, there are many unique activities. You can take a sleigh ride through the city, tour Bonhomme’s Ice Palace, and explore historic Quebec City and centuries old architecture.
One of the biggest attractions of the festival is the Winter Carnival fairgrounds. Quebec City’s winter amusement park opens for the Carnaval de Quebec. The fairgrounds are complete with ice castles, bouncy castles, and of course, a Ferris wheel. If you find yourself in Quebec, this is a thrilling time of the Canadian winter.
FROSTival is the biggest winter celebration in the maritime provinces of Canada. Every winter, the festival takes place in Fredericton and lasts from late January to early February.
There is a reason FROSTival is called the biggest winter festival in the maritime provinces. FROSTival has many fun outdoor activities like ice skating, sleigh rides, and nature walks to admire Fredericton’s beautiful winters. The festival is also swarming with food trucks and winter-themed restaurants in case you get hungry during the celebrations. Here is a list of all the exciting events FROSTival has to offer.
Our next winter festival will take us to one of the prairie provinces. Winnipeg, Manitoba is known for its harsh winters and icy winds. However, Winnipeggers have found many ways to embrace their chilly winters through, you guessed it, winter festivals! Read more: What to Know About Living in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Winnipeg has been hosting the Festival du Voyageur every winter for the past 55 years. This festival has many unique activities and events that are sure to keep you in the winter spirit. From fiddling contests to the International Snow Sculpture Symposium, the Festival du Voyageur is a must-visit if you are in Winnipeg this winter.
January 10 – 26, 2025
Jasper is one of the most beautiful locations in Canada. The National Park is known for its year-round scenic beauty so it comes as no surprise that it holds one of the best winter festivals in Canada. Jasper in January is an annual winter festival that arrives in mid-January. The festival has many fun events, activities, music, and entertainment. Some popular events at Jasper in January include Poutine Showdown, Photo Tour, and a free guided snowshoe through a winter wonderland. January in Jasper also has many live music shows so if you want to attend those, make sure to check their events list.
February 2 – 4, 2025
Frost Regina is back in 2024 with two more fun-packed weekends. Parts of the festival take place in Regina’s Warehouse District, Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL), downtown Regina, and Wascana Park. Together all these locations make up for a great festival. Here are a few of the activities you will find at Frost Regina:
These are just some of the activities at Frost Regina. Keep in mind that all these locations are free except for REAL, which is ticketed. The festival was a hit last year and there is no doubt that it will be sticking around for many more winters.
February 1 to 17, 2025
Located less than an hour away from Toronto, the Hamilton WinterFest is another great festival. This winter festival offers everything from rooftop concerts and art displays to pancake breakfasts and even sporting events. The festival will host more than 75 events created by community arts, education, and recreation partners.
Many festivals across the country appreciate all the wonderful aspects of Canadian winters. In this article, you only saw a few winter celebrations from around Canada. If you don’t live near any of the winter festivals listed above, don’t fret. No matter what city you live in, there will most likely be exciting festivals with lots of fun winter activities. If you are unsure where and when a festival is occurring near you, just ask a friend or neighbour!
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Marking the unofficial end of summer, most people know Labour Day in Canada for its extravagant parades and great shopping deals. Labour Day in Canada is an annual statutory holiday on the first Monday of every September. The holiday has a profound and complex history and many Canadians don’t know its significance. As we prepare for Labour Day, let’s remember to celebrate the workers, including immigrants, who built the country it is today. Discover the history of Labour Day, what it means for worker’s rights today, and how Canadians celebrate the holiday!
The working class didn’t always have the rights we have in Canada today. Fair employment standards such as a safe workplace, a set minimum wage, and the right to join a union are some of the rights we take for granted today. The working class in the 19th century did not enjoy many of these rights. And, Canadian workers fought hard to gain these rights. Labour Day celebrates the progress and success of those dedicated to creating the workers’ rights and protections that we have today.
Labour Day officially became a statutory holiday in Canada in 1894. However, the holiday finds its origins long before that. Many historians accredit the events of 1872 as the driving force behind Labour Day. The Nine-Hour Movement of 1872 was a push for shorter work days at a time when most employees were expected to work twelve hours a day.
On April 15, 1872, workers from the Toronto Typographical Union went on strike. They paraded with 10,000 union supporters to Queen’s Park in Toronto. At the time, however, unions were illegal and workers could not strike against their employers collectively. As a result, 24 strike leaders were arrested and charged with criminal conspiracy.
The arrests met with widespread protest and the general population was enraged. Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, responded by promising to abolish anti-union laws. On July 14 of the same year, Parliament passed the Trade Unions Act, which made unions legal.
This was a huge breakthrough in workers’ rights. The passing of this bill gave way to many other rights that workers demanded. After the events of the Nine-Hour Movement, Toronto would hold an annual parade to celebrate the victory of unions. In 1894, Labour Day became a national holiday. At first, it was a holiday associated mostly with work unions. As time went on, however, more and more businesses started giving employees the day off. Today Labour Day is a statutory holiday across Canada and most workers get the day off.
Today, most people see Labour Day as the holiday that comes at the end of summer. However, the holiday still reflects what it originally stood for, a day for workers to rally together and campaign for better working conditions. This makes it a unique holiday. Unlike other Canadian statutory holidays, Labour Day is less festive. But, you will still see parades, picnics, speeches, and competitions.
Celebrations usually take place throughout the long weekend. Since most Canadians also get Monday off, the Labour Day Weekend has three days. Many Canadians use the Labour Day weekend to enjoy the company of family and friends. It is common for families to go on a picnic before the end of summer.
The first day of school usually follows the Labour Day holiday for most elementary, secondary, and university students. So, the Labour Day weekend in Canada is an opportunity for students to celebrate the last long weekend of the summer and prepare for the exciting new school year.
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Yes, Labour Day is a federal statutory holiday. Unlike most other statutory holidays, Labour Day is pretty straightforward. All government offices and almost all retail stores will be closed. Some convenience stores and restaurants may remain open. The day after Labour Day marks the first day of school for students so many people refer to Labour Day weekend as the end of summer in Canada.
Labour Day falls on the first Monday of September every year. In 2024, Labour Day falls on September 2nd.
Now that you know a little bit about how Labour Day came to be and how Canadians celebrate it, let’s talk about some of the popular events that take place on the Labour Day weekend in Canada. Two of the biggest and most anticipated events around Labour Day are the Pacific and Canadian National Exhibitions. The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) takes place in Toronto while the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) takes place in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The CNE is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Every year, this Toronto event begins in the weeks leading up to Labour Day and welcomes 1.6 million visitors. This year, the CNE will start on August 16th and runs until Labour Day on September 2nd. To many, the exhibition is Toronto’s signature end-of-summer event. The CNE is one of North America’s top fairs.
The PNE is Western Canada’s equivalent of the CNE. Like the CNE, the PNE comes to Vancouver yearly and runs for around two weeks leading to Labour Day. PNE will open on August 19th – September 2, 2024.
The PNE is full of entertaining performances, music concerts, exciting rides, and food. This year, some of the PNE events include:
Both exhibitions are jam-packed with exciting activities and a thrilling summer send-off. They are a great way to spend time with family and friends while having the time of your life. The CNE and PNE might be the two biggest Labour Day events but they aren’t the only ones. No matter where you live, there will be events in cities across Canada. Many professional sports leagues also hold special games over the Labour Day Weekend.
With all of the exciting events that take place during the Labour Day holiday, remember to celebrate the workers, including immigrants, who built the country it is today and who continue to fight for workplace equity.
If you’re new to business or a seasoned entrepreneur, you can start a successful business in Canada. In 2024, Canada is booming with innovation and sustainability. With the Canadian economy undergoing a major shift, there are countless opportunities you can take advantage of. The changing economy makes certain business models more profitable than others. In this article, we look at the top five best businesses to start in Canada in 2024.
Due to its welcoming environment, diverse culture, and abundant opportunities, Canada is a great place to start a business. It also offers government support, a stable economy, and a skilled workforce, making it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs. It’s not just about making money; it’s about making your dreams a reality. So get ready to carve out your place in Canada’s dynamic business scene.
Immigrant entrepreneurs and international students add much value to Canada’s economy. Immigrant entrepreneurs bring fresh ideas, diverse skills, and global connections to Canada’s business scene. Their innovative thinking drives new products and services, while their international networks open doors to global markets.
By starting businesses, immigrant entrepreneurs create jobs and boost economic growth. Their presence enriches Canadian culture and promotes inclusivity, making the business environment more dynamic. Overall, immigrant entrepreneurs play a crucial role in Canada’s economic success.
Here are five Canadian business opportunities to explore:
Starting a restaurant or buying a franchise in Canada can be a rewarding path for food lovers looking to grow their businesses. Franchises, in particular, offer established brands, support, and a ready customer base. This greatly reduces the risk compared to an independent venture.
To start a restaurant you need to find a suitable location, develop a menu, hire staff, and obtain any necessary permits or licenses. You also need to create an inviting space that reflects your culinary vision and attracts customers.
Whether starting a restaurant or buying a franchise, careful planning and attention to detail are essential for success in Canada’s competitive food industry.
Starting a transportation business in Canada in 2024 is a great idea. Canada offers various transportation options you can explore. You could start a taxi or ride-sharing service, helping people get around cities conveniently.
If you prefer larger vehicles, consider starting a bus or shuttle service, providing transportation for groups or communities. Starting a delivery or courier service can be profitable for those interested in logistics, especially with the rise of online shopping. You can even start a bike rental service if you want to start on a smaller scale. Whatever option you choose, research regulations, plan your routes, and provide excellent customer service to succeed in the transportation industry in Canada!
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More people are regularly buying things online. According to Euromonitor International’s predictions, consumers worldwide are expected to spend approximately $11 trillion on goods and services purchased through online platforms in 2024. This indicates a significant trend towards online shopping and reflects the increasing influence of e-commerce on global consumer spending habits. This significant shift towards online commerce makes E-commerce one of the best businesses to start in Canada in 2024.
To start in e-commerce, pick what you want to sell online and research your market. Then, create your store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce and market it through social media and SEO to attract customers. Be responsive to inquiries, address customer concerns promptly, and strive to exceed their expectations. Continuously monitor your e-commerce performance and metrics to identify areas for improvement. Building a successful e-commerce business takes time, effort, and perseverance. Stay committed to your goals, stay patient through challenges, and continuously seek opportunities for growth and innovation. With good planning and the right mentors, you can start an online store with less investment in Canada.
In 2024, the Canadian real estate market continues to present opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Despite challenges, the market is thriving, offering many creative avenues for growth. With Canada’s population increasing, there’s a high demand for housing and commercial spaces, making real estate lucrative. This makes real estate one of the best businesses to start in Canada
To get into the Real Estate business, and to become a realtor you need to be at least 18, have some education, and be a citizen or resident of Canada. To get the realtor license, you have to take courses, join a brokerage, and pass the exam.
It’s important to know your local area well and make connections in the community. This helps you understand the market and gain the trust of potential clients. Being a realtor requires good communication, negotiation, patience, and time management skills. With adaptability and customer focus, the real estate sector in Canada promises a bright future for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Starting a farming business is one of the best businesses to start in Canada. It is good for anyone whether they are new immigrants to Canada or existing residents of Canada. Here are some great ideas to consider!
You could grow microgreens, start an organic farm, or join a CSA program. Herb farming and lavender farming are also profitable options. If you have space, grow fruit trees or Christmas trees. Hemp farming is becoming popular too. You could also specialize in building greenhouses or doing landscaping work. For livestock, think about raising goats, sheep, rabbits, or poultry.
Regulations: Understand the rules you need to follow, including permits and licenses. Complying with laws keeps you out of trouble.
Market Research: Figure out what people want to buy and who your competition is. This helps you find your niche and make smart decisions.
Financial Planning: Plan your money carefully – what you’ll spend, earn, and where to get more if needed. Get advice from financial experts.
Networking: Connect with other entrepreneurs for advice and support. Join groups and talk to people in your industry.
Understanding the top businesses to start in Canada can help you decide if it’s the right path for you. By exploring these industries, you can minimize risks and capitalize on growth opportunities, setting up a profitable venture.
For resources, helpful tools, free webinars, and more check out our guide on Finding a Job in Canada. We’re here to support you in achieving your career aspirations in Canada!”
The business casual dress code is a recent concept. Not so long ago, it used to be true that everyone who went for a job interview in Canada had to wear their best suit. Then once they started their new job in Canada, they would have to maintain that professional look every day. This type of dress code is known as business formal. In the past, many companies required their employees to adopt business formal attire in the office environment. Business formal still has a place in the modern workplace, and you will still be required to wear it for an interview because first impressions count!
Recently, however, companies have adopted a more lenient dress code called business casual. The business casual dress code gives employees more freedom with their attire in the workplace while still maintaining a professional look. Be that as it may, there is one problem with the term business casual; it is too vague. So, it can be confusing and leave you wondering what is acceptable and what’s not acceptable. Get helpful guidelines to navigate the business casual dress code in Canada.
For newcomers, understanding the Canadian workplace can help you to succeed. And, understanding the dress code is an important part of understanding the workplace.
There is no one accepted definition for the term business casual. What might be considered business casual in one workplace might be completely unacceptable in another. Different companies define business casual differently. It can vary depending on the company’s culture, goals, and public image. However, the overall goal of business casual attire is to allow employees to be comfortable while still looking professional. Essentially, the business casual dress code combines traditional business wear with less formal clothing. The resulting style is still suitable for the work environment while also being more comfortable for employees.
However, the business casual dress code has yet to make its way into every Canadian workplace. So, take responsibility to learn what is suitable office attire. It is always best to dress a little smarter than you have to in the first few days until you have figured out what people wear day to day. You can always drop the tie or unbutton the top button to make an outfit more relaxed if you need to.
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If you are not sure what is required from you when it comes to your attire, you can always give HR a visit. The Human Resources department will be able to guide you regarding the dress code. The company may even have a formal policy that specifically addresses the dress code. Another suggestion is to observe how formal or casual your coworkers are dressing and find a good balance for your attire.
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Business casual is a great option for businesses that have no real reason to maintain a formal dress code. Allowing employees to dress more casually can contribute to higher morale, productivity, and creativity. It may also boost employee morale. Business casual attire allows employees to personalize their clothing and stay more comfortable in the workplace. Since professional wardrobes can get quite expensive, business casual also helps employees save money.
While a business casual dress code can be confusing, here are some helpful tips to consider.
After you have an idea of what business casual wear is suitable for the office, it’s time to go shopping. The salespeople, especially at stores that sell business attire, are well-informed and will be able to guide you. Recently, many businesses have adopted dress codes that are quite lenient and encourage business casual. All you have to do is mention the office dress code and the sales associate can show you a wide array of clothing styles. You may be pleasantly surprised by how many options work with both your personality and the office environment.
Yes, that might sound a little cheesy, but it is true. No matter what clothes you are wearing, having a smile on your face can go pretty far. Smiling radiates confidence and makes you a more likable person from the first impression. As you start your new career in Canada, just being happy will help you start it on the right note.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
Toronto is the most culturally diverse city in the world reflected in some of its unique neighbourhoods. With more than half of its population born outside of Canada, there are not many ethnicities you won’t find in Toronto. Unsurprisingly, there are cultural enclaves around the city where Canadians of a certain descent more commonly reside. Many of these neighbourhoods have rich histories, and over time earned nicknames. Toronto has it all, from familiar cultural districts like Chinatown and Little Italy to the more unique neighbourhoods of Little Jamaica and Greektown. For newcomers here are some of the best neighbourhoods in Toronto.
Chinatowns are not an unfamiliar concept in North America. Almost every large city in Canada and the United States has a neighbourhood they can call Chinatown. However, no city does it as well as Toronto. Toronto has not one, but three Chinatowns, with many other neighbourhoods that people commonly refer to as Chinatowns.
The main Chinatown and the one Toronto is known for is located around the Dundas St West and Spadina Avenue intersection. This Toronto neighbourhood is the largest Chinatown in North America and one of the oldest in Canada, dating back to the 1870s.
Toronto’s Chinatown is famous for its bustling streets and mouth-watering food. For decades, restaurants like Mother’s Dumpling, Dim Sum King, and Mongolian Hotpot have attracted customers. Chinatown Center, a shopping mall with hundreds of shops lies in the heart of the bustling neighbourhood.
Even though the biggest Chinatown get most of the attention, there are smaller Toronto neighbourhoods that many classify as Chinatowns. The East Chinatown neighbourhood is located at Gerrard Street East and Broadview Avenue. The Greater Toronto Area also has sizeable Chinatowns in Scarborough, Markham, Mississauga, North York, and Richmond Hill.
Little Italy is another cliche ethnic neighbourhood present in many North American cities. Of course, that means Toronto has one as well. The Toronto neighbourhood of Little Italy, which many refer to as College Street West is famous for its overwhelmingly Italian atmosphere. This Toronto neighbourhood has a significant Portugese-Canadian population as well.
Little Italy is centred on College Street, between Harbord Street to the North and Dundas Street to the south. The most iconic part of Toronto’s Little Italy lies on the strip of shops and restaurants along College Street. You’ll find everything from modern game board cafes to traditional Italian dine-in restaurants and Italian shops. Whether you are looking for a bar or a typical Italian cafe, Little Italy will not disappoint.
Little India is a newer Toronto neighbourhood with a unique origin story behind it. Toronto’s Little India origins began in 1972 when Gian Naaz purchased a theatre on Gerrard Street and began to screen Indian and Pakistani films.
The area lacked a significant South Asian population. However, South Asian shops and restaurants quickly began appearing near Gerrard Street. This, in turn, drew the community to the Toronto neighbourhood, resulting in a big South Asian presence.
Today, Little India, also known as Gerrard India Bazaar, is situated between Greenwood and Coxwell, on Gerrard Street East. Since its humble beginnings 50 years ago, the neighbourhood has turned into a vibrant center of South Asian culture. From Indian restaurants to South Asian superstores, this Toronto neighbourhood can make anyone feel like they are in India.
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The Danforth and Greektown have become two synonymous words to describe the same Toronto neighbourhood. Toronto is home to one of the largest Greek populations outside Greece, and a majority of that population resides in this Toronto neighbourhood. Located on Danforth Avenue in East Toronto, Greektown on the Danforth is known for featuring traditional Greek cuisine through its many restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.
Toronto’s Greektown is famous for having one of the largest street food festivals in Toronto. In August, the Toronto neighbourhood hosts The Taste of Danforth. This food festival has become an icon of Greek-Canadian culture and gives Canadians a chance to try out some of the best Greek flavours. Of course, you don’t have to wait until August! The Danforth is lined with Greek restaurants and shops, ranging from traditional Greek restaurants to modern vegan cafes.
Another ethnic neighbourhood in Toronto is Little Jamaica. Located on Eglinton Avenue West, Little Jamaica is a center of Jamaican and Caribbean culture in the Greater Toronto Area. The ethnic enclave is bustling with Jamaican and Caribbean-owned businesses. From Jamaican hair salons to restaurants serving a range of Caribbean foods, Little Jamaica is definitely worth the visit.
If you live in Toronto, there is a good chance you have been to the Caribana Festival, which is the largest street festival in North America. Caribana, the annual festival of all things Caribbean, now takes place at Lakeshore Boulevard. Many people don’t know that the festival began in Little Jamaica.
Caribana took place on Eglinton Avenue West before it got too big and relocated. At the heart of this Toronto neighbourhood lies Reggae Lane. Reggae Lane has become a symbol of Jamaica in Toronto and presents a mural featuring Jamaican musicians from the neighbourhood.
Located not far from Little Italy, Portugal Village recreates many aspects of Portuguese and Brazillian culture right here in Toronto. To many, Little Italy and Portugal Village are the same neighbourhood due to their proximity and undefined boundaries. As a result, Portugal Village, also known as Little Portugal, has a significant Italian population.
Portugal Village is always vibrant and busy, having something for everyone. Whether you want to indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine or enjoy the unique atmosphere of Portugal Village, this Toronto neighbourhood will not let you down. Portugal Village is brimming with many eating options, Portuguese art in every corner, and loads of Portuguese items.
There are countless cultural enclaves, that make for some of the best neighbourhoods to live in Toronto. These are just a few of the exciting and dynamic neighbourhoods. Toronto prides itself on being a home to people from over 250 ethnicities. No matter where you are from as a newcomer, you will never feel out of place in the most culturally diverse city in the world.
To most of us, Boxing Day in Canada is the holiday that comes right after Christmas. Many Canadians don’t know the history of the holiday or what its true purpose was. Today, it’s a shopping holiday where you can get great deals on everyday items. It was not always this way, however. Let’s explore the history of Boxing Day and what it has transformed into today.
Boxing Day is an international holiday that many countries around the world celebrate. The holiday is celebrated on December 26, which is the day after Christmas Day. If the day falls on a weekend, the holiday shifts to the following Monday.
Boxing Day originated as a day to give gifts to the poor. After giving each other gifts the day before, the wealthy would box up gifts and give them to the poor. Most people serving the upper class had to work on Christmas and did not get the day off. As a result, the following day would almost serve as their Christmas. Boxing Day also became a time for the wealthy to donate to the poor.
While the idea of boxing day has been around since the 1600s, its official origin was never confirmed. Most people believe that the day was officially established in Britain during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Today, many countries linked to Britain, such as some of the Commonwealth Countries, celebrate Boxing Day. Since Canada used to be a British colony, it too celebrates the holiday.
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Boxing Day is a statutory holiday for all federally regulated employees. However, not all provinces made it a statutory holiday. The only province that observes Boxing Day in Canada as a statutory holiday is Ontario. This means that if you live outside Ontario and do not work in a federally regulated industry, Boxing Day will not be a statutory holiday for you. If you live in Ontario, however, it is a statutory holiday.
While Boxing Day was originally a day for giving gifts to the poor, it has undoubtedly transformed into a shopping holiday. In recent years, the term, “Boxing Week”, has started to become popular. This is because of the sales that take place during the week after Christmas. For some families, December 26th can also serve as a way to extend Christmas celebrations. As mentioned above, some Canadians have Boxing Day as a statutory holiday, so they can take the day off.
Boxing Day in Canada has become a great way to save on household items you are planning to buy. If you know you need a new TV, and Boxing Day is a month away, it is usually worth waiting. Boxing Day sales can save you hundreds of dollars if you plan and time your big purchases correctly. Things like electronics, furniture, clothes, and home renovation items usually face tremendous discounts during Boxing Week.
From large corporations to local businesses, almost every store in Canada offers Boxing Day sales. In this section, we will look at some of the most common stores across Canada and what items you will find on discount.
Walmart is one of the biggest corporations in the world. It also offers some of the biggest discounts during Boxing Day in Canada. Most items sold by Walmart receive sales during Boxing Week, with the exception of food items. The items that receive the biggest sales are electronics, appliances, and furniture. You might also be able to find discounts on various other items such as toys and clothing.
Both Best Buy and Staples are some of the best brick-and-mortar stores to buy electronics. They are famous for holding massive sales during certain times of the year, including Boxing Day. Best Buy and Staples also have Back-to-School Sales and Black Friday sales so it is a good idea to be on the lookout for both.
Canadian Tire is another big retail store that offers great deals on Boxing Day. You will find a wide variety of items on sale if you do your research. Some common products that are usually on sale include small kitchen appliances, kitchenware, garden tools, and much more. To get a better idea of what items in Canadian Tire are on sale, click here.
These are just some examples of stores that offer Boxing Day deals. Almost all big retailers, and even some small businesses, extend the sale for a week. Make sure to be on the lookout for such sales if you are planning to make a big purchase in the near future.
While the holiday began as a way to give gifts to the poor and allow people to enjoy a day off, it has taken on a completely different role today. Commonly referred to as a shopping holiday, Boxing Day in Canada has become a great way to save money. Today, the holiday mainly serves as a shopping holiday and an extra day to enjoy the Christmas holidays.
Canada is home to some of the best research-based engineering universities in the world. And, no matter which public university you attend, you will get some of the best education in the world. You’ll also receive a widely recognized degree that many countries accept. Some Canadian universities, however, are known for giving students more in-depth access to their field of study. Below, are some of the top universities in Canada for engineering students.
The University of Waterloo (UWaterloo), located in Kitchener-Waterloo, is considered the top university in Canada for engineering. It is internationally recognized for its one-of-a-kind engineering faculty. While it might not be the first university that comes to mind when talking about Canada’s top university, UWaterloo has many reasons that make it the best university for engineering students.
UWaterloo has the best co-op program in North America and give students the upper hand when they enter the workplace. That is because Waterloo’s co-op program allows students to get work experience while still in university. As a bonus, they also earn money during their co-op, which can help to pay off their tuition fees.
While no university guarantees students a co-op placement, UWaterloo students generally have no trouble finding placements in the workplace. This is a great achievement, considering that UWaterloo has the largest engineering department in Canada. UWaterloo also has one of the highest employment rates for its graduates, falling just behind the University of Toronto.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is internationally known for being the center of teaching, learning, and research. It has also been recognized as North America’s most international university. As a result, UBC students receive an education that revolves around research and technology from a top university in Canada for engineering. The university is only a 30-minute bus ride to the heart of downtown Vancouver,
Combined with a great co-op program, UBC graduates generally find jobs quickly after graduating. Co-op students from UBC, especially, have an easy time finding jobs. This is because employers know they have work experience while also receiving an education based on innovation.
At the end of the day, if someone is going to hire you as an engineer, you should have your original ideas in addition to what you are taught in university. UBC is a great university for that because it encourages students to innovate and develop problem-solving skills.
The University of Toronto (UofT) is commonly referred to as Canada’s most prestigious university. It is also one of the top Canadian universities for engineering. The university is often called the Oxford of Canada. No matter which program you enter at UofT, you will find yourself among some of the best professors in Canada. Additionally, your degree will come with rightfully earned respect and recognition of a UofT graduate. The engineering program at UofT is no exception.
Like UBC, UofT’s engineering program revolves heavily around research-based education, combined with traditional lecture-styled classes.
UofT has three campuses, all of which are located in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). While the main campus, St. George, is located in downtown Toronto, the university also has campuses in Mississauga and Scarborough.
International students can find it challenging when it comes to searching for off-campus housing. Discover how to overcome common obstacles and find housing accommodation options for your unique needs.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARThe University of Alberta (UofA) is one of the leading institutes when it comes to top Canadian universities for engineering. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, the city also has a low cost of living. As a result, if you decide to go to UofA, you will obtain a well-respected degree while managing affordable living expenses.
The University of Western Ontario (Western), located in London, Ontario, has one of Canada’s largest and most scenic campuses. It also has a great engineering faculty. Western is specifically known for exceptional programs in civil and mechanical engineering. This combined with a scenic, accessible, and bustling campus makes Western one of the top picks for international students.
Western is known for having a great student life. The university has many resources that help students balance their studies and social life. These resources help students manage their studies and not get overwhelmed. The university places importance on extracurriculars such as student clubs and intramurals. These factors, combined with a remarkable engineering program make Western one of the top universities in Canada for engineering students.
The Ivey Business School is also located on the Western University campus. It is one of the best business schools in Canada. 96% of Ivey graduates get job offers right away. Additionally, many of them reach high positions in their companies.
A common approach to make yourself more desirable to employers is to complement your engineering education with a business degree. This dual degree combination shows employers you possess technical know-how and broader business skills to enhance big-picture thinking. In addition, it can open up unique career options when you apply engineering school technical skills and business leadership, strategy, and communication skills.
A dual degree on your resume can differentiate you from other job candidates. It shows your commitment to achieving educational and career goals. Pursuing a dual degree can also help you grow your professional network by connecting you to other engineers and business professionals. This can help you find exciting opportunities and graduate with many professional contacts and references.
No matter which university you attend, you will receive a good education. Canadian universities also provide many opportunities to transition into the workplace upon graduation. At the end of the day, which university you decide to go to depends on your preferences.
Academics is not the only factor to consider when choosing an engineering school in Canada. You will spend four or more years of your life at university. Consider factors such as student life, extracurriculars, and support for international students at your university of choice.
With some of the best universities in Canada for engineering, international students can receive a degree recognized around the world. Graduating from these top universities can offer stellar job prospects and exciting career opportunities.
Your Alberta health card is a government-funded service that will cover many basic costs related to your medical needs. Canada has a great healthcare system that strives to provide free, universal healthcare for all its residents. Your Alberta health card will cover many medical costs for you in Alberta, as well as the rest of Canada. In this guide, we’ll look at how to apply for your Alberta health card.
Alberta is known throughout Canada for its breathtaking scenery and low taxes. It also has a great health care system in place. The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides Alberta residents access to free medical services. AHCIP covers the cost of many medical services you would have had to pay for otherwise. Generally speaking, any medical service that is considered necessary is covered by AHCIP.
Your Alberta health card will cover many basic health care services. From annual eye exams to ambulance transportation costs, your Alberta health card has got you covered. Below are some of the services that AHCIP covers:
Some services are only partially covered by your health card. These services include:
To access a bigger list of what is and isn’t covered by AHCIP, click here.
While you’re for coverage from the Alberta health insurance program, you may want to purchase travel medical health insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses.
Applying to AHCIP involves a few simple steps. The government has made it easy to apply for an Alberta health card. As long as you follow each step, you will have your Alberta health card in no time.
You will need certain documents when you apply. These documents will prove that you are who you say you are. They will also prove that you are eligible for AHCIP.
When you apply for your Alberta health card, you will have to provide documents to show:
Proof of residency can be anything that proves you live in Alberta. To prove you live in Alberta, you can provide any of the following documents:
Any documents with your name and signature will count as proof of identity. However, to be safe, check the health ministry website to confirm acceptable documents. Some examples of proof of identity include:
It is important not to confuse this requirement with proof of residency. This document requires you to prove you legally live in Canada. On the other hand, proof of residency requires you to prove you live in Alberta. Documents that prove your legal entitlement to be in Canada include:
Without a document from each of these categories, you will not be able to file your application for AHCIP. Because of this, it is important to bring all the documents you need to apply for an Alberta health card. Click here to access the full list of documents that are accepted.
You will also need to fill out an application form to apply for an Alberta health card. The application form is accessible online. You can access the application form by clicking here. If you need help, many settlement agencies can help you apply.
After obtaining your three documents for proof and filling out the application form, you are ready to apply. In Alberta, you have the option to apply in person or by mail. In both cases, the application process is very similar.
To apply in person, you can visit a participating Alberta registry office. To file your application, you must bring your three original documents and the completed application form. Photocopies will not be accepted when you apply in person. To find the nearest participating Alberta registry office near you, click here.
Applying by mail is slightly different than applying in person. You will still need your application form and your three documents. However, you are not required to send in the original version of your documents. Therefore, you will have to get photocopies of your three original documents to mail to the AHCIP office.
Keep in mind that it might take longer to process your application if you send it in by mail. If you can, it is better to apply in person. That way, there is less room for error and you can start using AHCIP right away.
When you think of Canada, snow, ice hockey, and maple syrup probably come to mind. While those things are Canadian to the core, one part of Canada that most people overlook is the TV shows. Canada has some of the best TV shows out there. Fans from across the world enjoy watching Canadian TV shows. No matter what type of show you want to find, Canada has something for you. From older Western shows to sitcoms, here are a few that capture life in Canada.
L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables is one of the iconic Canadian books. It is no surprise that since the book was published in 1908, multiple film adaptations have popped up. Many adaptations have captured the heart-warming tale entertainingly while staying true to the novel.
However, there is one adaptation that stands out. The 1985 adaptation of Anne of Green Gables has captured the hearts of millions of Canadians and is cherished by fans around the world. It perfectly captures life in Prince Edward Island during the early 1900s.
The TV show is about the life of a 12-year-old orphan named Anne who is adopted by two elderly siblings, Matthew and Marilla. The ageing siblings wanted a young boy to help out on their farm, but instead received a girl, Anne. Marill and Matthew did not welcome Anne at first because she wasn’t a boy. However, she manages to win the hearts of her adoptive guardians and eventually the people of her town, Avonlea.
The series is available on a streaming service called GazeboTV. Another option is to check out your local public library. Since it is such a popular show, you will likely find the title in your local library.
The Canadian TV show, “Frontier”, brings attention to a part of Canadian history that is usually overlooked. The show brings the audience back to the North American fur trade and the powerful Hudson’s Bay Company. It follows the thrilling adventures of the rebellious Declan Harp. Declan Harp was an employee at the Hudson’s Bay Company before he became an outlaw.
Join Declan as he undertakes his quest for revenge against the very company he used to work for. All three seasons of Frontier are available on Netflix. The show has some violence in it, so it is ages 16+. Click here to access the trailer for the show
Heartland is another show that is based on a book. This Canadian TV show takes place near the Rocky Mountains of Alberta in Heartland Ranch. It follows the teenage protagonist, Amy Fleming, and her family, who run the ranch. After Amy’s mother passes away, it is up to Amy and her sister to revive the bankrupt family ranch.
This show gives a good insight into life in the Alberta countryside. The show is full of scenic shots that cover the wide expanse of the Rocky Mountain Foothills. Heartland offers a view of country life and an interesting storyline that is easy to follow.
Heartland is available to watch on Netflix. If you do not have a Netflix subscription, you can also watch all 15 episodes on CBC Gem for free. Click here to access the complete series for free. Check out the trailer here.
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Kim’s Convenience is a great sitcom that touches upon some of the amazing things about Canada. This Canadian TV show is about a Korean family that immigrated to Toronto, Ontario, and opened a convenience store. Kim’s Convenience combines comedy with real-life elements that make the show fun, engaging, and entertaining.
The show gives the audience a look into another culture and shows how different and at the same time, how similar Canadian families can be. Fans from diverse backgrounds can relate to the dynamics of a family that happens to be Korean-Canadian.
You can watch Kim’s Convenience for free on CBC Gem by clicking here. You can also watch the show on Netflix or Prime Video with a subscription. Check out this video to get a flavour of this Canadian TV show.
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Another great Canadian TV sitcom is Schitt’s Creek. The show follows a once-wealthy family that went completely broke. The only asset the Roses could keep was a small town of Schitt’s Creek. The Roses had bought the town as a joke, but now they had no choice but to move into it, leaving behind life as they knew it.
Join the Roses as they struggle to adapt to their new modest lives with their two spoiled children.
CBC Gem also offers Schitt’s Creek to watch for free. You can access the show for free by clicking here. You can also watch the show on Netflix and Prime Video with a subscription to those streaming services. If you would like to watch the trailer first, you can also do that by clicking here.
Whether you want to get a glimpse of life in Canada, learn about cultural and historical aspects, or just be entertained, these Canadian TV shows cover it all.
It is always a good idea to be careful when shopping online. Scammers can be waiting to trick you out of your money in even the most unexpected of places. This is especially true for the holiday season. November and December see some of the biggest sales volumes every year. While you might find some great deals online this time of year, scammers are also busy trying to cheat you out of your money. Newcomers unfamiliar with these scams can easily fall prey. Here are some common online holiday season scams and how to avoid them.
While shopping online, you might come across a great product. The product looks attractive in the pictures and the price is way below what you expect the price should be. If this is the case, the product is probably a scam. Scammers will buy cheap, illegitimate products that imitate recognized brands from a supplier. These products pose a threat to your health and safety and are produced with no care for regular consumers. They are then sold online as authentic products to turn a bigger profit.
It is easy to fall for this scam because of the way it is set up. These fake goods will be priced in a way that makes them stand out. However, they usually aren’t cheap enough to make them look suspicious. Many people make the mistake of trusting the product just because the price is reasonable. With the right information and a cautious approach, it is possible to spot and avoid buying counterfeit goods online.
Before you hit the checkout button, it is a good idea to research the seller. The best way to avoid buying counterfeit products is to buy from the company that produces them. For example, if you are buying an iPhone charger online on Amazon, there is a good chance that the charger is counterfeit. To make sure you get an authentic iPhone charger, your best bet is to buy from the Apple online store.
Of course, not all third-party sellers online sell counterfeit goods. Some independent third-party sellers do sell authentic products online. The best way to find the difference between counterfeit and authentic items is to look at the price. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
If you find a product online that looks suspicious and you think it might be a fake, you can report it. To learn how to report a counterfeit product, visit this Canadian Anti-Fraud Center page.
The internet is filled with fake websites that claim to sell authentic products. Shopping from these sites results in receiving low-quality products or sometimes, not even receiving anything at all.
A good way to identify a fake website is by looking at the URL of the page you are on. The domain name of the website will almost always be the same as the brand name. If you are looking to buy an iPhone charger from Apple, the domain name should be apple.com. If it is not, you are most likely browsing on a fake website that sells counterfeit apple products.
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One of the best parts of the Canadian holiday season is the exchange of gifts. Canadians like to send gifts to their friends and family during this time of year. Sadly, scammers have found a way to cheat you out of your money here as well.
In recent years, the practice of buying gift cards online during the holiday season has become common. Gift cards are fast and convenient but also allow you to show a thoughtful gesture to your loved ones. While gift cards are great, it is a good idea to be careful when shopping for gift cards online. Many online gift card vendors are fakes. This means that the gift cards you buy from them will be drained of value and will have no money left in them.
The best and easiest way to avoid this scam is to buy gift cards directly from the company. For example, if you want to buy an online gift card from Best Buy, the best place to do that would be through the Best Buy website. While some outside sources might sell valid gift cards for Best Buy, it is best to play it safe.
Another scam that revolves around holiday gifts is fake online cards. Since the pandemic, many aspects of our lives shifted online. Things like online learning and shopping were common before the pandemic. During the pandemic, we had to find new ways to celebrate the holiday season. So many people will send online cards. However, the card you receive can be from a scammer.
The purpose of these fake cards is to introduce harmful malware such as spyware and ransomware into your device. Scammers can then steal your personal information or lock down your computer to make you pay a ransom. Either way, this is something you want to avoid. The best and simplest way to do that is to be careful when you open any cards. If you do not recognize the person who sent the card, you should think twice before opening it.
You also need to look out for prices that are too high for the product you want to buy. Scammers will target people that do not know the market price of a product to turn a bigger profit. Even though many people wouldn’t consider this a scam, it’s a very real way for scammers to cheat you out of your money.
This is probably the easiest scam to avoid as you just have to know the market price for that product. If you want to buy an iPhone charger, do some research on how much they sell for. That way, you will know whether or not the seller is pricing the charger too high. Knowing the market price will also tell you if the charger is too cheap, which could suggest that the charger is a counterfeit product.
This overview of online shopping scams gives you an idea of what techniques scammers use against you. There are countless other scams you will find during the holiday season and they cannot all be covered in a single article. The best way to avoid any scam online is to be cautious of what you are about to click. As long as you know what you are doing on the internet, online holiday season scams will become easy to spot and avoid.
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!