Lesson & Activities - Celebrating Victoria Day: A Joyful Start to Summer
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- 10 min read
✦ This lesson includes these sections:
☞ PART 1 - A Royal Holiday: What Is Victoria Day?
☞ PART 2 - When Is Victoria Day Celebrated?
☞ PART 3 - Victoria Day's Nickname
☞ PART 4 - The Origins Of Victoria Day
☞ PART 5 - Who Celebrates Victoria Day?
☞ LISTENING - Celebrating Victoria Day
☞ PART 6 - Fireworks Celebration & Safety Rules
☞ PART 7 - The Unofficial Start Of Summer In Canada
☞ PART 8 - Fun Activities To Do On Victoria Day
☞ ACTIVITY 1 - Victoria Day Activities Matching Activity
☞ POLL - Victoria Day Activities That You Like The Most
☞ PART 9 - Fishing In Canada
☞ PART 10 - Fishing Without A Fishing Licence
☞ PART 11 - Concluding Thoughts
☞ QUIZ - Test Your Knowledge
✦ Click on each section from above to see it ↑
✦ Click on each title box from below to get back here ↓
Celebrating Victoria Day: A Joyful Start to Summer
Speaking Activity
Conversation Questions
Instructions:
Listen to and read the conversation questions.
Practice your speaking by answering each question out loud.
See some possible answers to the conversation questions by clicking the side arrows next to each question.
Conversation Questions
1. What is Victoria Day?
Victoria Day is a holiday in Canada. It celebrates Queen Victoria’s birthday and Canadian history.
2. In which month is Victoria Day celebrated?
Victoria Day is celebrated in May.
3. What do people usually do on Victoria Day?
People usually have barbecues, watch fireworks, go camping, or enjoy outdoor activities like walking, gardening, or travelling.
4. What is the weather like on Victoria Day?
The weather is sometimes warm, but it can also be cool or rainy.
5. Why is Victoria Day important in Canada?
It is important because it is part of Canadian history and it celebrates Queen Victoria.
Writing Activity
Pre-Reading Vocabulary
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Copy the words from below.
Look up the definitions of the words online.
Learn the definitions of each word.
Important Words - Celebrating Victoria Day
national
holiday
celebrate
queen
monarch
honour
history
frost
statutory holiday
community
fireworks
rules
safety
barbecue
Celebrating Victoria Day: A Joyful Start to Summer
Instructions:
Read the following text.
Listen to the audio files.
Complete the activities within the lesson.
Note: Reading out loud when learning a new language is important because it helps you practice your pronunciation. When you speak the words, you can hear how they sound, and this will improve your speaking skills.
A Royal Holiday: What Is Victoria Day?
Victoria Day is a national holiday in Canada that celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was an important British monarch. It was first created to honour her long rule and her strong connection to Canada. Today, Victoria Day is also a celebration of Canadian history and identity. Many people think of it as a special day that connects Canada to its past, especially its ties to the British Crown.
When Is Victoria Day Celebrated?
Victoria Day is celebrated on the Monday before May 25 each year. This means the date changes, but it always creates a three-day-long weekend. This long weekend gives people time to rest, travel, and enjoy the outdoors after the long winter season. The weather during the Victoria Day weekend is usually mild and fresh. It can be warm and sunny, but sometimes it is still cool or rainy. Many Canadians follow the rule, “Don’t plant your garden before May 24,” because late frost can still happen at this time of year.
Victoria Day’s Nickname: May Two-Four
Victoria Day is often called “May Two-Four” in Canada. This nickname comes from the date May 24, which was Queen Victoria’s birthday. Many Canadians use this name in a fun and informal way. It can also refer to a case of 24 drinks, which some people buy for the long weekend. This nickname shows how the holiday is both historical and part of modern Canadian culture.
The Origins of Victoria Day
Victoria Day began in 1845 during Queen Victoria’s lifetime. Queen Victoria was the Queen of the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901 and played an important role during a time when Canada was growing as a country. After her death, Canadians continued to celebrate her birthday because she was seen as a symbol of unity and stability. This holiday is important because it reminds Canadians of their history and their connection to the British Crown.
Who Celebrates Victoria Day?
Victoria Day is mainly celebrated in Canada, where it is a national holiday. It is also a statutory holiday, or “stat holiday,” which means that most workers get a paid day off and many businesses are closed. This gives people time to relax and enjoy the long weekend. People across Canada celebrate Victoria Day in different ways. In large cities, there are fireworks, concerts, and festivals. In smaller communities, people spend time with family, close friends, or neighbours. Many Canadians also travel, visit cottages, or enjoy outdoor activities during this time.
Celebrating Victoria Day
Instructions:
Press the play buttons below.
Listen to the audio file.
Use the reading from above to follow along with the audio file.
Celebrating Victoria Day
Fireworks Celebrations & Safety Rules
Fireworks are one of the most popular traditions on Victoria Day. This tradition grew in the late 1800s when large public displays were used to celebrate important events. Today, cities and towns often organize fireworks shows at night. Families also buy small fireworks to use at home. People gather in parks or backyards, watch the sky light up, and enjoy the colourful displays.
Fireworks Rules
In Canada, there are rules to keep everyone safe. Here are some important fireworks rules that people should know if they want to use fireworks on the Victoria Day long weekend.
Fireworks are usually only allowed on private property with permission.
Many cities allow fireworks only on certain days (like Victoria Day or Canada Day).
Fireworks are often not allowed in public places like parks, streets, or school grounds without a permit.
You must not use fireworks late at night (often after 11 p.m., but this depends on local by-laws).
Children are usually not allowed to use fireworks without adult supervision.
Some areas ban certain types of fireworks, like very large or high-powered ones.
You may need a permit for bigger public fireworks displays.
Fireworks Safety Tips
Before lighting any fireworks, it is important to know how to use them safely, understand how they work, and take care of the people and environment around you. The following safety tips will help you have a fun and safe Victoria Day experience.
Always read and follow the instructions on the package.
Keep a safe distance from fireworks when they are lit.
Never hold fireworks in your hand while lighting them.
Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of fire.
Light one firework at a time, then move away quickly.
Never try to relight a firework that did not work.
Keep pets indoors, as fireworks can scare them.
Clean up used fireworks and put them in water before throwing them away.
Hello Summer: The Unofficial Start of Summer in Canada
Victoria Day marks the unofficial start of summer in Canada. Many people open their cottages, clean their yards, and prepare for warm weather. Barbecues are very popular. Families cook burgers, hot dogs, and vegetables outside. Friends gather, share meals, and enjoy long evenings together. This tradition began when outdoor cooking became common in Canadian homes. It is now an important part of the holiday.
Fun Activities To Do On Victoria Day
*Before reading about the fun activities that people can do on Victoria Day, look at each picture from above, and talk about what you see.
Here are a few popular outdoor activities Canadians enjoy during the Victoria Day long weekend: These activities show how much Canadians enjoy nature.
Victoria Day Activity #1
Camping In A Conservation Park
Explanation: Camping is a popular way to enjoy the long weekend. People go to national or provincial parks to relax in nature, sleep in tents, and cook outside.
Example: A family travels to Algonquin Park and spends two nights camping by a lake.
Victoria Day Activity #2
Gardening & Planting Flowers
Explanation: Victoria Day is known as the start of the gardening season in Canada. Many people plant flowers, vegetables, or trees in their yards.
Example: A person plants colourful tulips and tomatoes in their backyard garden.
Victoria Day Activity #3
Travelling To A Nearby Town
Explanation: Many people take short trips to small towns or nearby cities. They enjoy local food, shops, and attractions.
Example: A couple drives to a small town in Ontario to visit a market and have lunch.
Victoria Day Activity #4
Cycling Around The Neighbourhood
Explanation: Cycling is a fun and healthy activity during the holiday. People ride bikes in their neighbourhoods or on trails.
Example: Friends go for a long bike ride on a trail near their homes.
Victoria Day Activity #5
Watching Fireworks
Explanation: Fireworks are a big part of Victoria Day celebrations. Cities often host shows in parks or near water.
Example: Families gather at a park in the evening to watch bright fireworks in the sky.
Victoria Day Activity #6
Fishing In A Lake Or A River
Explanation: Many people go fishing during the long weekend. It is a peaceful way to spend time outdoors.
Example: A group of friends wakes up early to fish in a local lake..
Victoria Day Activity #7
Visiting A Beach
Explanation: Some Canadians visit beaches to enjoy the fresh air, even if the water is still cold.
Example: A family goes to the beach to have a picnic and walk along the shore.
Victoria Day Activity #8
Boating Or Canoeing
Explanation: Boating and canoeing are relaxing activities on lakes and rivers. People enjoy the quiet water and nature.
Example: Two friends rent a canoe and paddle across a calm lake.
Victoria Day Activity #9
Having A Barbecue
Explanation: Barbecues are very common on Victoria Day. People cook food outside and eat with family and friends.
Example: A family hosts a backyard barbecue with burgers, hot dogs, and salads.
Victoria Day Activity #10
Opening The Cottage
Explanation: Many people in Canada have cottages. On Victoria Day, they visit to clean, prepare, and enjoy them for the summer.
Example: A family drives to their cottage and spends the weekend cleaning and relaxing.
Reading & Writing Practice
Victoria Day Activities
Matching Exercise
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Make a list from 1 to 10.
Read the 10 situations.
Use the chart - Victoria Day Activities, and decide which Victoria Day situation matches which activity.
Practice your writing by writing the name of the activity next to each number on your paper.
Check your answers by clicking on the side arrows next to each situation.
Fun Victoria Day Activities
1. Nina said, “My family and I are going to cook burgers and hot dogs outside on the grill in our backyard. We will eat and relax together outdoors.” Which Victoria Day activity is Nina planning to do?
Answer: Having A Barbecue
2. John said, "My family and I are going to ride our bikes around the streets where we live. We want to enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise.” Which Victoria Day activity is John planning to do?
Answer: Cycling Around The Neighbourhood
3. Carol said, “This weekend, I am planning to sit by a lake early in the morning with my grandson. I will bring my fishing rod and try to catch some fish.” Which Victoria Day activity is Carol planning to do?
Answer: Fishing In A Lake Or A River
4. Louisa said, “This weekend, we are going to open our cottage for the season. We will clean it, set up furniture, and enjoy time by the lake.” Which Victoria Day activity is Louisa planning to do?
Answer: Opening The Cottage
5. Elfenesh said, “I am going to plant flowers and vegetables in my garden with my grandkids. I have been waiting for warmer weather to start.” Which Victoria Day activity is Elfenesh planning to do?
Answer: Gardening & Planting Flowers
6. Murray said, “This weekend, my girlfriend and I are going to go out on the water in a canoe. We want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.” Which Victoria Day activity is Murray planning to do?
Answer: Boating Or Canoeing
7. Nico said, “This weekend, my kids and I are going to stay in a tent at a provincial park for 3 days and 2 nights. We will cook over a fire and enjoy nature.” Which Victoria Day activity is Nico planning to do?
Answer: Camping In A Conservation Park
8. Roy said, “My family and I are going to watch a big show in the sky with bright lights and loud sounds. The show is not going to start until it is dark outside.” Which Victoria Day activity is Roy planning to do?
Answer: Watching Fireworks
9. Tory said, “My family and I will be driving to a small town near my city. We want to visit the local shops and explore the area.” Which Victoria Day activity is Tory planning to do?
Answer: Travelling To A Nearby Town
10. Robert said, “We are planning to go see a beautiful lake this weekend. We want to walk along the water and maybe have a picnic.” Which Victoria Day activity is Robert planning to do?
Answer: Visiting A Beach
Take Our Poll
Which Victoria Day Activity Do You Like The Most?
Which Victoria Day Activity Do You Like The Most?
0%Camping In A Conservation Park
0%Fishing In Lakes & Rivers
0%Gardening & Planting Flowers
0%Visiting A Beach
Fishing In Canada
Fishing laws in Canada are important because they protect fish and nature. If you want to fish, you usually need to buy a fishing licence first. You also need to follow rules about how many fish you can catch and how big the fish must be. In some places, you can only fish at certain times of the year. These are called fishing seasons. These rules protect fish when they are having babies. You must also follow rules about where you can fish and what equipment you can use. When you follow these laws, you help keep fish healthy for the future.
Fishing Without A Fishing Licence
If you do not have a fishing licence, you may have to pay a fine if a conservation officer checks you. The fine can be expensive, and in some cases, you may have to go to court. You could also lose the fish you caught and your equipment. These rules are serious because they protect fish and the environment. To avoid problems, it is best to buy a fishing licence before you go fishing and always follow the rules.
Here are some useful official websites where people can find information about fishing in Canada:
Government of Canada
Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada:
Ontario
Fishing licence information, rules, seasons, and limits:
Parks Canada
Information about fishing in national parks
Concluding Thoughts
Victoria Day is a special holiday that connects Canadians to their history and celebrates the start of warmer days. It honours Queen Victoria while also giving people time to relax and enjoy life. From fireworks to camping trips and shared meals, the holiday brings people together. It is a time of joy, fresh air, and community. For many Canadians, Victoria Day is not just about the past—it is also about enjoying the present and welcoming summer.
Test Your Knowledge By Taking Our Quiz
Instructions:
Read the 10 true and false questions below.
Answer each question.
Click the Submit button when you are done.
Click the View Score button to check your results.
Click below for a reading without the accompanying activities:
Written by: Nicole WT
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