Canada is a country of great diversity with a rich history and culture. From its natural beauty to its friendly people, Canada is a country that has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 surprisingly fun facts about Canada. From the country’s size to its education system, we will take a closer look at what makes Canada such a unique and interesting place. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy learning about some of the most interesting facts about Canada.
Table of Contents
1. Canada is the Second Biggest Country in the World
It’s also the biggest country in the western hemisphere, covering 9,984,670 square kilometres (which makes Canada bigger than the entire European Union) . Canada is a country of great diversity, with a population of over 38 million people. It has breathtaking natural beauty, friendly people, and a multicultural environment.
2. Canada Has 10% of the World’s Forests
The country is home to 9% of the world’s renewable freshwater resources. Canada’s forests are a vital part of the country’s economy, providing jobs and resources for many industries. Forests take up more than half of the country’s land space.
3. Canada is the World’s Most Educated Country
Over half of its residents have college degrees. Canada has a strong education system, with many world-renowned universities and colleges. The country also has some of the most high-quality education and research institutes.
4. The Hawaiian Pizza was invented in Canada
The very-controversial Hawaiian pizza was, in fact, not invented by a Hawaiian! A Greek immigrant named Sam Panopoulos made it first in Chatham, Ontario, in 1962. The pizza is now famous all over the world.
5. Canada’s Lowest Recorded Temperature is as Cold as Mars
The temperature was recorded in Snag, Yukon, in 1947. The temperature was -63°C (-81.4°F). Despite the cold temperatures, Canada is known for its winter sports, such as hockey, skiing, and snowboarding.
6. There are More Lakes in Canada Than in the Rest of the World Combined
Canada is home to over 31,000 lakes, which cover over 7.6% of the country’s landmass. The country’s largest lake is Lake Superior, which Canada shares with the United States.
7. Canada Has the Longest Coastline in the World
The country’s coastline stretches over 202,080 kilometres (125,567 miles). Canada’s coastline is home to many species of marine life, including whales, seals, and sea lions.
8. Canada is the Fourth Biggest Producer of Hydroelectric Power
Canada is one of the leading countries in the world in renewable energy. The country only trails China, Brazil and the USA in hydroelectric power production.
9. Beaver Has Been the National Animal of Canada Since 1975
The beaver has been the national animal of Canada since 1975. It is a semiaquatic rodent known for building lodges, canals, and dams. The beaver is also the largest rodent in North America.
10. Toronto is the Most Multicultural City in the World
A staggering 50% of Toronto’s population was born outside of Canada. Further stamping Canada as one of the most diverse countries in the world.
11. The Canadian Rockies showcase a range of habitats
The Canadian Rockies are a marvel of diverse habitats, ranging from lush forests to alpine tundras, each hosting unique ecosystems and species. In the subalpine areas, dense spruce and fir forests provide shelter for animals like grizzly bears, elk, and moose.
Higher up, the alpine zones reveal delicate meadows filled with wildflowers adapted to the harsh, wind-swept environment, which sustains smaller creatures like pikas and rare birds, such as the rosy finch.
Alongside this, iconic landscapes like the turquoise lakes of Banff and glacial fields in Jasper offer habitats for fish and aquatic life.
The combination of these zones, alongside vital conservation efforts, preserves this exceptional biodiversity, attracting both wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists to the Rockies’ preserved wilderness.
12. Poutine is a must-try dish
Poutine is an iconic and indulgent Canadian dish that’s well worth a try. It originated in Quebec in the 1950s and quickly spread across Canada, becoming a beloved comfort food.
The traditional recipe is simple yet satisfying: crispy French fries topped with fresh cheese curds and smothered in rich, savory gravy.
The unique texture of cheese curds—often described as “squeaky” when fresh—adds a delightful contrast to the hot, smooth gravy and crispy fries.
While classic poutine sticks to these three main ingredients, there are many creative variations, including toppings like pulled pork, bacon, or even truffle oil, which make this dish versatile and enjoyable for everyone (even vegetarians can enjoy a mushroom-based gravy version).
Today, poutine has become a symbol of Canadian culture and a must-try for anyone visiting the country, offering a comforting, flavorful experience that connects you directly to the local food scene.
13. The Magnetic Hill looks like it defies gravity
Magnetic Hill, located in Moncton, New Brunswick, is a fascinating site that appears to defy gravity. When cars are placed in neutral at the base of the hill, they mysteriously seem to roll uphill, puzzling visitors who experience this “anti-gravity” effect.
This phenomenon is actually an optical illusion caused by the surrounding landscape. The hill’s layout tricks the eye, as the absence of a clear horizon makes it hard to perceive slopes accurately, leading to the impression that cars are rolling upwards rather than downwards.
This illusion has made Magnetic Hill a popular attraction for curious tourists and has led to its designation as a historic site, with visitors flocking to experience the strange sensation of “defying” gravity firsthand.
Magnetic Hills like this one exist in various parts of the world, but Moncton’s version remains one of the most well-known and iconic examples of this phenomenon.
This unique effect has captivated visitors for decades and adds a touch of wonder to the natural beauty of the area, making it a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing one of Canada’s quirky natural illusions firsthand.
14. Canada hosts the world’s largest collection of Inuit art
Canada is home to the world’s largest collection of Inuit art, showcased primarily at the Qaumajuq Center, an extension of the Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
This impressive collection, totaling over 12,200 pieces, spans generations and showcases a wide variety of Inuit cultural expressions, from traditional stone carvings and tapestries to contemporary works in multimedia and digital formats.
Qaumajuq’s central feature, the “Visible Vault,” is a three-story glass display housing more than 4,500 stone sculptures, providing an immersive experience for visitors and a visual journey through various Inuit communities across the Canadian Arctic.
The center aims to bridge Canada’s northern and southern cultures, offering a space that celebrates and educates the public on Inuit heritage and contemporary Inuit voices, including the perspectives of emerging Inuit artists exploring themes of identity, nature, and social issues.
Qaumajuq has not only preserved this vast collection but also fostered collaboration with Inuit communities to ensure their art and cultural heritage are accessible and accurately represented.
15. Canada has made an impressive contribution to Hollywood and music
Canada has made a remarkable mark on Hollywood and the global music industry, contributing to both influential pioneers and contemporary icons.
In Hollywood’s early days, Canadians like Mary Pickford and Mack Sennett set the stage for what would become American cinema, with Pickford achieving superstar status as one of the first widely recognized actresses and Sennett revolutionizing comedy on film by discovering talents like Charlie Chaplin.
This influence continued with film executives like Louis B. Mayer, a Canadian who co-founded MGM Studios, helping shape Hollywood’s golden age. In music, Canada has produced world-renowned talents across various genres.
Icons like Céline Dion, Shania Twain, and more recently, Drake and Justin Bieber have captured global audiences and reshaped pop music.
Notably, cities like Toronto and Vancouver, often dubbed “Hollywood North,” have become major centers for music and film production, hosting countless international projects and artists.
Through these contributions, Canada’s talent and creative influence continue to resonate worldwide, reinforcing its role as a powerhouse in entertainment.
16. John Cabot accidentally claimed Canada for England
In 1497, Italian explorer John Cabot, sailing under England’s commission, set out to find a westward route to Asia but instead reached the coast of what is now Canada.
He landed in Newfoundland, mistaking it for Asia’s northeast coast, and claimed it for England, establishing one of the earliest European footholds in North America.
This accidental discovery laid the foundation for future British claims in the New World, with Cabot’s exploration marking the beginning of England’s eventual influence in Canada and North America as a whole.
17. Basketball was born in Canada
Basketball was invented in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian-born physical education instructor in Springfield, Massachusetts. Naismith created the game as a way to engage his students indoors during the winter months.
Using a soccer ball and two peach baskets as goals, he developed the initial set of rules that would evolve into modern basketball.
Despite being created in the United States, basketball’s Canadian roots are celebrated, and the sport has grown into a global phenomenon, with Canada producing notable NBA players and becoming a major center for basketball talent.
18. The Trans-Canada highway is a record-breaker
The Trans-Canada Highway, stretching over 7,800 kilometers (4,860 miles), holds the record as one of the longest national highways in the world.
Officially opened in 1962, this highway connects Canada from coast to coast, running through ten provinces from Victoria, British Columbia, to St. John’s, Newfoundland.
This extensive roadway not only serves as a vital transportation route but also showcases Canada’s diverse landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic coast. Its length and scenic routes make it a unique travel experience, attracting tourists and road-trippers from around the globe.
19. Canada’s is the main maple syrup producer
Canada proudly holds the title of the world’s leading maple syrup producer, supplying around 71% of the global market, with Quebec alone contributing a significant 90% of this output.
Maple syrup production has deep roots in Canada’s heritage, dating back to Indigenous techniques that settlers later adopted.
Today, the industry has grown into a major economic contributor, with exports reaching more than 75 countries and generating over $600 million annually.
The unique climate in Quebec provides ideal conditions for maple tree tapping, allowing Canada to dominate this “liquid gold” market worldwide.
20. Quebec has North America’s sole walled city
Quebec City is home to the only remaining fortified city walls in North America, a feature that gives it a distinctly European charm.
Built by French and British colonists in the 17th and 18th centuries, these historic walls encircle Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city’s well-preserved ramparts, gates, and cobblestone streets attract visitors seeking a blend of history and culture in this picturesque, fortified setting.
Quebec City’s unique architecture and rich history make it an iconic landmark and a testament to colonial heritage in North America.
21. Canadian Thanksgiving is an old tradition
Canadian Thanksgiving dates back to the 16th century, predating its American counterpart. Initially, European settlers and Indigenous people gathered to give thanks for successful harvests, marking the end of the season with feasts and festivities.
While it shares similarities with the American holiday, Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday of October, coinciding more closely with Canada’s earlier harvest season.
Today, it’s a cherished tradition filled with family gatherings, hearty meals, and gratitude, rooted in Canada’s agricultural past and the spirit of giving thanks.
22. Leif Erikson was the first European in Canada
Leif Erikson, a Norse explorer from Iceland, is believed to be the first European to set foot on North American soil around the year 1000, landing in what is now Newfoundland, Canada.
He established a settlement known as Vinland, inspired by the wild grapes found in the area. This discovery, mentioned in Norse sagas, places Erikson’s exploration nearly 500 years before Columbus.
Today, L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland is recognized as the likely site of this Norse settlement, commemorating Canada’s earliest European visit and Erikson’s historic exploration.
23. Canada has a unique national drink: The Caesar
The Caesar, often called Canada’s national drink, is a spicy cocktail beloved for its bold flavors.
Born in Calgary, this cocktail is made with vodka, Clamato juice (a blend of clam and tomato juice), Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and various garnishes like celery, lime, or even pickles.
Its popularity quickly spread across Canada, and it’s now a staple of Canadian culture, often enjoyed at brunch or during summer barbecues.
Many Canadians take pride in this cocktail, which has inspired countless variations and remains a distinctive symbol of Canada’s culinary identity.
24. Canada’s national sport is lacrosse
Canada’s official national summer sport is lacrosse, a game with roots in Indigenous cultures that dates back centuries.
Originally played by Indigenous tribes for social, ceremonial, and training purposes, lacrosse was adopted and adapted by European settlers in the 19th century.
The sport is known for its fast pace and physicality, played with a small rubber ball and sticks with nets.
Recognized as Canada’s national sport in 1859, lacrosse remains a celebrated symbol of Canada’s cultural heritage and is enjoyed by players and fans across the country.
25. The telephone was invented in Canada
Alexander Graham Bell, although born in Scotland, developed the idea for the telephone while living in Canada. In 1876, he made history by creating the first successful voice transmission over a wire, saying, “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you.”
The first long-distance call also took place in Canada, from Brantford to Paris, Ontario, establishing the country as a significant contributor to this revolutionary technology.
Bell’s invention has had a lasting impact on global communication, forever changing how people connect across distances.
26. Canada fought the ‘Beaver Wars’
In the 17th century, the Beaver Wars erupted as a series of conflicts between Indigenous nations, primarily the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), and French settlers, along with their Indigenous allies, over the lucrative fur trade in what is now Canada.
These wars were driven by the European demand for beaver pelts, which were highly valuable for making hats and garments.
The conflicts reshaped alliances, trade routes, and power balances in the region and left a lasting impact on Indigenous communities and the development of Canada’s early fur trade economy.
27. Canada loves immigration
Canada is celebrated worldwide for its inclusive approach to immigration.
With a commitment to multiculturalism, the country welcomes newcomers from around the globe, with immigration policies aimed at boosting the economy, addressing labor shortages, and enriching cultural diversity.
This openness has become a defining aspect of Canada’s identity, with cities like Toronto and Vancouver often highlighted for their diverse populations.
Through various programs, Canada continues to attract immigrants, contributing significantly to its growth and social fabric.
28. Santa Claus’s address is in Canada
Did you know that Santa Claus has an official address in Canada? Every holiday season, Canada Post encourages children to write letters to Santa at “Santa Claus, North Pole, H0H 0H0, Canada.”
This unique tradition has been embraced for decades, with volunteers helping to answer letters from children worldwide.
Canada’s connection to Santa, paired with its snowy winters, has made this tradition a cherished part of the holiday season for Canadian families and fans of Santa Claus globally.
29. Canada’s name is from an indigenous language
The name “Canada” originates from the St. Lawrence Iroquoian word kanata, meaning “village” or “settlement.” In 1535, Indigenous guides used this term when showing the explorer Jacques Cartier the village of Stadacona (modern-day Quebec City).
Cartier began using “Canada” to describe not only the village but eventually the broader surrounding territory.
Over time, “Canada” became widely adopted, officially naming the country we know today, rooted in this Indigenous term that reflects the area’s original communities.
30. Canadians love mac and cheese
Canadians are known for their love of mac and cheese, with Kraft Dinner (KD) being a particular favorite. Since its introduction in 1937, Kraft Dinner has been a staple in Canadian households, and Canadians consume more KD per capita than any other nation.
This creamy, cheesy dish has become a cultural phenomenon, popular among all ages and celebrated for its affordability, convenience, and comforting flavor. Canadians even refer to it affectionately as “KD,” showcasing their unique attachment to this classic comfort food.
31. British Columbia has enormous forests
British Columbia is renowned for its vast, lush forests, covering approximately 55% of the province’s land area. These forests range from temperate rainforests along the coast to dense, mixed forests inland.
They house diverse ecosystems with towering cedar, hemlock, and spruce trees and are home to wildlife like bears, eagles, and salmon.
BC’s forests not only contribute to the province’s natural beauty but also play a vital role in its economy, supporting industries such as timber, tourism, and conservation.
32. Canada has a lot of top actors and artists
Canada has made a significant impact on the entertainment world, producing internationally acclaimed actors and musicians.
From Hollywood stars like Ryan Reynolds, Rachel McAdams, and Keanu Reeves to musicians such as Celine Dion, Drake, and Shawn Mendes, Canadian talent is recognized globally.
This thriving creative scene is fostered by a supportive arts community and government initiatives that promote and fund Canadian arts, solidifying Canada’s reputation as a powerhouse for film, television, and music.
33. Canada still has a monarchy
Though Canada is an independent nation, it remains a constitutional monarchy with the British monarch as its head of state. The role of the monarch in Canada is largely ceremonial, with the Governor General acting as the monarch’s representative.
This historical link reflects Canada’s colonial past and ties to the British Commonwealth, maintaining traditions while Canada continues to operate as a sovereign democracy with its own government.
34. Canada is a bilingual country
Canada is officially bilingual, recognizing both English and French as national languages. This policy is a nod to the country’s colonial history and the cultural significance of both language communities.
French is primarily spoken in Quebec, where it is the official language, while English is more common in other provinces. Canada’s bilingualism is enshrined in law, promoting cultural diversity and ensuring government services are available in both languages.
35. Churchill, Manitoba, is the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.
Churchill, located on the western shore of Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba, is renowned as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” Every autumn, nearly 1,000 polar bears gather in the area, awaiting the formation of sea ice to begin their winter hunt.
This unique phenomenon draws tourists from around the globe, who venture out in specialized vehicles known as “Tundra Buggies” to safely observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Churchill also offers sightings of the Northern Lights and beluga whales, making it a unique destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
36. Canada crosses six time zones
Canada spans six time zones, stretching from Pacific Time on the west coast to Newfoundland Time on the east.
This vast expanse allows for varying daylight hours and climates across regions, which affects daily life, business operations, and travel across the country.
From British Columbia to Newfoundland, these time zones reflect Canada’s geographic diversity and are essential to coordinating events and activities across such a large nation.
37. You can see the Northern Lights in Canada
Canada’s northern regions offer some of the best views of the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, especially in areas like the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Churchill, Manitoba.
Visible nearly 240 nights a year in many of these regions, the auroras are most active from September to March.
This natural light show attracts tourists eager to witness the vivid greens, purples, and blues illuminating the Arctic skies, adding to Canada’s appeal as a destination for natural wonders.
38. Canada is home to the world’s most northern settlement
The world’s northernmost settlement, Alert, is located in Nunavut, Canada, just 817 kilometers (508 miles) from the North Pole. Established as a weather station and military outpost, Alert is known for its extreme conditions, where temperatures can drop to -40°C.
Despite its harsh environment, Alert plays a crucial role in Arctic research and monitoring, underscoring Canada’s reach into the farthest points of the north.
39. 9 out of 10 Canadians live in the US-Canada border region
Approximately 90% of Canadians live within 160 kilometers (100 miles) of the U.S. border. This concentration is due to milder climates, economic opportunities, and urban centers located near the border.
Major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver thrive close to this line, supporting economic ties and making cross-border travel and trade convenient for many Canadians.
This proximity has shaped Canada’s economy and cultural exchange with the U.S., reinforcing strong connections between the neighboring countries.
40. Canadian banknotes are made of plastic
Canada’s banknotes are made of polymer, a durable and recyclable plastic material introduced in 2011.
These polymer notes are designed to be more secure and long-lasting than traditional paper currency, featuring advanced security features such as transparent windows and holographic elements.
This shift to plastic has helped Canada reduce costs associated with currency production and increased the environmental sustainability of its money.
41. Independence Canada declared independence in 1982
Canada’s final step toward full independence came with the Constitution Act in 1982, which marked the official patriation of its constitution.
Prior to this, Canada had been self-governing since the Statute of Westminster in 1931, but Britain retained the power to amend Canada’s constitution.
With the leadership of Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Canada negotiated with the British government to end this legal dependency.
The Act, signed by Queen Elizabeth II and Trudeau on April 17, 1982, also introduced the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, securing various civil rights within Canada’s own legal framework.
42. Canada has nicknames for their coins
Canada’s coins are affectionately known by various nicknames, often reflecting their designs. The one-dollar coin, for example, is called a “loonie” because it features an image of the common loon.
When Canada introduced the two-dollar coin, it naturally became known as the “toonie,” combining “two” and “loonie.”
These playful names have become a unique part of Canadian culture, with other nicknames like the “nickel” for the five-cent piece and the “dime” for the ten-cent coin, each adding character to the Canadian currency.
Experience Some of these Amazing Canadian Facts
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