10 Fun Facts About Canada That May Surprise You
Canada may be best-known for its hockey players, parkas and Tim Hortons franchises; but this North American nation offers much more. Here are seven interesting facts about Canada that may surprise you:
1.) The name Canada originates in an indigenous word meaning village, due to an unfortunate misunderstanding by explorer Jacques Cartier.
1. Canada is the second largest country in the world
Canada is famously revered for its breathtaking natural scenery – glittering lakes, snow-capped mountains, national parks with waterfalls abounding with water falls, and abundant wildlife – making it one of the world’s most breathtaking countries. However, Canada offers much more than just its scenic wonders: quirky cuisine and traditions alike can also make Canada unique; discover 10 fun facts about this northern kingdom below.
Canada is the second-largest nation by land mass and population, but when you factor in water and coastline it becomes even bigger. Canada boasts the longest coast line worldwide and Great Bear Lake (world’s largest lake), as well as three of the ten biggest islands (Baffin is over twice the size of England!) and Ellesmere Island are all located within its borders.
Canada ranks second globally for total lake area, including both freshwater and saltwater lakes. Boasting over two million lakes – making Canada the sixth-largest lake country – Canada is home to some of the planet’s most iconic bodies of water such as Great Slave Lake and Lake Superior.
Canada, the second-largest nation on earth, is home to Niagara Falls and an expansive wilderness inhabited by wolves and mountain lions as well as herds of bison roaming its prairies. But Canadians don’t just revel in nature: every July 1 they celebrate Canada Day commemorating their semi-independence from Britain when the British North America Act was signed in 1867 granting more democratic government and autonomy for Canada.
2. Canada is the most densely populated country in the world
Canada is home to sparkling lakes, snow-capped mountains and sprawling national parks – plus it has quirky cuisine, charming traditions and some of the world’s friendliest citizens! While Canada may seem peaceful at first glance, its population actually contains some fascinating facts that make it one of the world’s most captivating nations!
Canada is an enormous country with low population density. Most Canadians reside in urban areas; cities like Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver each contain over one million people but still rank lower on European rankings than their major European counterparts.
Canadians are predominantly descendants of European immigrants, yet have developed their own distinct culture – including an annual Thanksgiving held in October instead of late November and a wide array of dishes to choose from.
Canadians are an extremely proud and patriotic people. This can be seen through their export of maple syrup – which symbolizes their nation. Furthermore, lacrosse traces its roots back to Native American heritage.
Another fun fact about Canada is that it boasts an UFO Landing Pad! Situated in St Paul, Alberta, this odd landmark draws tourists from all around. Although never actually used by aliens themselves, the UFO Landing Pad remains an enjoyable and quirky attraction worth checking out. Beavers are Canada’s national animal, and their hardworking ways can be seen on our nickel (5-cent coin) coin as well as our passport.
3. Canada is the most diverse country in the world
Canada is well known for its stunning lakes, snow-capped mountains and national parks packed with waterfalls and wildlife – but Canada also has its own charming quirks to show its unique character. From odd wildlife facts to charming traditions – here are 10 interesting and unusual facts about this country!
1. Canada is the most diverse nation on Earth. Its vast wilderness provides habitat for an array of animal species – from majestic moose and caribou to adorable baby polar bears – while also boasting the world’s most varied climate, from Arctic cold temperatures to steamy summer heat waves.
2. Canada Has the World’s Longest Coastline.
Canada stands out as an astounding country due to its extensive coastline that extends along three oceans – Atlantic, Arctic and Pacific. Walking all of Canada’s coastline would take nearly five years; Wasaga Beach in Ontario stands out for being over 125 miles long!
3. The Canadian government offers free tuition to all high school students. Canada is widely known for being generous and progressive, which explains its high rates of student immigration; approximately one fifth of Canada’s population comprises foreign students.
4. Quebec accounts for 70% of global maple syrup production.
Canada is well known as being the world’s top producer of maple syrup, used extensively across many dishes and desserts across Canada – it even has its own national holiday celebrating this iconic substance!
4. Canada is the world’s largest exporter of maple syrup
If you’ve seen a bottle of maple syrup, chances are it comes from Canada. Canadians are the world’s biggest producers and exporters of this liquid gold; contributing 75%+ of global maple syrup products. Maple syrup has long been an integral part of Canadian culture and can be found anywhere from pancakes to candy bars!
As if that weren’t impressive enough, Canada also boasts the world’s longest coastline. Walking it would take four and a half years if one wanted to do it completely! Canada offers breathtaking natural wonders from beautiful beaches to icy glaciers – even kissing dead codfish is tradition in Newfoundland!
Canada is home to many notable athletes and celebrities, such as Seth Rogan, Mike Myers, Justin Bieber, Keanu Reeves, Michael Buble and Alanis Morisette. Additionally, Canada was the birthplace of hockey which has become one of the world’s most beloved sports.
Canada may be known for being cold, but did you know it’s also one of the snowiest countries in the world? Canada boasts more than twice as much snowfall than Russia – both countries being considered major snow producers!
There’s nothing quite as charming or fun-filled as a Canadian winter, and its many activities to enjoy. Skiing, skating and playing hockey are among many enjoyable pursuits available in this snowy nation – and of course no trip would be complete without trying poutine – an iconic Canadian dish consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy that serves as a hearty dish after spending the day outdoors! Don’t leave Canada without tasting one; make sure that on your next visit make time to give poutine a try!
5. Canada is the world’s largest exporter of camembert
Canada is home to stunning lakes, snow-capped mountains and expansive national parks; but beyond its breathtaking landscape is also a fascinating nation, boasting quirky cuisine, charming traditions and some of the friendliest people on Earth.
Canada may come as a surprise, but Canada is the world’s largest exporter of camembert cheese. Camembert is produced using cow’s milk and traditionally French recipes are used when crafting high-quality varieties. Sold as small wheels and sold chilled or at room temperature; firm when chilled or runny at room temperature; an ideal addition to salads, sandwiches or toasted baguettes alike!
Canada may be the world’s top exporter of camembert, yet not all its production takes place there. France produces some of the best-quality cheese with Protected Designation of Origin status; other camembert may taste good but is not authentic French style camembert.
Camembert holds an important place in Canadian history beyond being an exquisite cheese. During World War II, camembert was an essential source of sustenance for Britain. Canada provided over 42,000 tonnes to aid Britain in their war effort.
Canada is well known for their love of macar and cheese; in fact, Canadians consume approximately 55% more than their American neighbors! Kraft Dinner has long been a favourite in grocery stores across Canada; even their early explorers loved mac and cheese as a symbol of pioneer spirit!