Happy Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day!

Although Quebec celebrates all of Canada’s national holidays, A província também tem o seu próprio “Fête Nationale“. This “national holiday,"Também conhecido como Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, é realizada em junho 24 and is part summer solstice celebration and part Quebec pride day.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste (São. João Batista) É o santo padroeiro dos canadenses franceses, and the day in his honor takes on a significant flavor of Quebec nationalism. Residents wave Quebec flags and hang banners from their balconies, enquanto free concerts and events highlight traditional Quebecois music and culture.

Montreal celebrates with a big parade and huge street parties across the city. Many smaller communities make merry with gusto as well.

Quebec essentially shuts down for La Fête — bancos, escritórios, and other services are all closed–so you might as well join in the festivities, mesmo se você não fala muito francês. It’s a fine excuse for a party!

And even if you’re not in Quebec, you may find celebrations in other regions. Hoje à noite em Vancouver, Richard’s on Richards nightclub hosts “Fête de la Saint Jean Baptiste” at 9pm. Você pode até mesmo partido no Yukon at celebrations in Whitehorse and Dawson City.

Bom Festival!

Photo Albert Alan ©