World’s Second Largest Country: Canada is the second largest country by land area, after Russia. It spans 9.98 million square kilometers (3.85 million square miles) but has a relatively small population of about 38 million people.
National Parks Galore: Canada has over 40 national parks and reserves. Banff National Park, established in 1885 in Alberta, is the oldest in Canada and one of the most famous.
Maple Syrup: About 71% of the world’s maple syrup comes from Canada, with the province of Quebec being the top producer.
Longest Coastline: Canada has the longest coastline of any country, stretching over 202,080 kilometers (125,567 miles). It touches three oceans: the Atlantic, the Pacific, and the Arctic.
Politeness: Canada is famous for its politeness. It’s a stereotype that Canadians say “sorry” a lot, but it’s true—they even have a “Apology Act” in Ontario that allows saying sorry in court without admitting guilt!
Two Official Languages: Canada has two official languages: English and French. Quebec is the primary French-speaking province, but you’ll find French influences across the country.
Home of the Northern Lights: The Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut are some of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights.
Polar Bear Capital: Churchill, Manitoba, is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” It’s one of the few human settlements where polar bears can be seen in the wild.
Hockey Love: Hockey is Canada’s most beloved sport, and the country has produced some of the greatest hockey players in the world, including Wayne Gretzky.
Largest Freshwater Island: Manitoulin Island, located in Lake Huron, is the largest freshwater island in the world.
Innovations: Canada has given the world several inventions, including insulin (used to treat diabetes), the telephone, and the snowmobile.
Beaver: A National Symbol: The beaver is an official symbol of Canada and appears on the country’s currency and many emblems. It was chosen for its historical significance in the fur trade.
