One of the pleasures of owning a home is having the ability to host gatherings of family and friends during the holidays. Canada Day is coming up this weekend, which means it’s time to get out the red and white décor, Canadian flags and tongue tantalizing recipes in celebration of The True North Strong and Free!
In honour of our country’s special day, we’ve gathered some of the internet’s best Canada Day decorations, recipes and tips, to help you celebrate in style! Need more? Check out our celebrations board on Pinterest!
Canada Day Party Tips
Before we get to the recipes there are a couple of important tidbits of information that you’ll want to keep in mind when hosting a Canada gathering.
- Ensure that you’re using the flag in a respectful manner— These days it’s a little known fact that there are actually rules for using the Canadian flag. Among instructions for flying and hanging your flag, there is also a call for the Canadian flag to be used in a dignified manner. That means using a flag as a tablecloth or place mat is a big no no. Don’t believe us? Here’s a look at what the government of Canada has to say.
- Try to maximize your seating area— Few things are more awkward for guests at a BBQ or house party than having a plate filled with food an nowhere to sit. While many people are accustomed to standing around and chatting while devouring their burgers and dogs, if you’re serving fork and knife fare you’ll want to try and make sure that there is sufficient seating available. TIP: Spread some blankets on the ground and tell guests they’ll be dining picnic style or ask them to bring a chair. It’s perfectly acceptable.
- Keep it cool—If you’re hosting a gathering indoors, always remember that the more people you have in your home, the hotter it’s going to get inside. So you’ll want to set your air conditioning to a slightly cooler temperature than normal. If you’re having trouble with your A/C, be sure to browse our listings for the HVAC repair service nearest you!
Canada Day Food and Drinks
Whether you’re hosting a Canada Day party or need a dish to take along as a contribution, here are a few recipes that are sure to help make your Canada Day delicious.
Strawberry kale salad with poppy seed dressing
Source: Flavour & Savour
Not only are those pops of red and white against the kale beautiful, but the whole thing just looks incredibly delicious. And really, just because it’s a holiday doesn’t mean you have to totally give up on the healthy eating …after all, you’ll want to leave some room for those butter tart cupcakes!
Cherry Limeade
Source: The Idea Room
We imagine you’ll have plenty of beverages to go around this Canada Day, from beers to Caesars, pops and waters, but sometimes it’s good to have a good, old fashioned self-serve punch on hand. This cherry limeade definitely fits the bill without being too punchy.
Canada Day Décor
If you’re looking to go add a little flair to your usual red and white décor, here are a few of our favourite internets finds for fun and festive Canada Day décor. Many of these decorations are quick and easy to set up, so there’s still time to add a little something extra to your decorating scheme.
Make a maple leaf bunting
Source: Simple as that
This décor craft is simple enough to do with the kids and only takes a handful of items. Don’t want to use book pages? Go with plane white paper instead.
Source: Botanical Paperworks
This party pack is a cute (and did we mention free) way to add a fun touch to your day. Simply download the pdf, print and cut out the pieces.
Don’t forget the details
Source: Squirrelly Minds
If you’re not big on décor, or if your decorating is all finished, but you’d still like to add a fun touch to your day, this super cute (and once again, FREE) printable pack makes a great addition.
