Ontario Day Could Soon Be Celebrated in Schools—But Many Are Just Learning It Exists
Did you know Ontario has its own official day? If not, you’re not alone.
Though it was quietly created in 2021 through the Ontario Day Act, June 1 was officially declared Ontario Day by the Doug Ford government. But despite being on the books for four years, the day has mostly gone unnoticed—until now.
The province is now pushing to bring Ontario Day into classrooms. If Bill 33 passes, the day will become part of the school curriculum, meaning students will learn about Ontario’s history and the people who helped shape it.
“Students will soon be getting dedicated time every year to celebrate key milestones in the province’s history and the contributions Ontarians have made,” Ontario’s Ministry of Education shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Minister of Children, Community and Social Services Michael Parsa added that Ontario Day can help inspire civic pride and teach students about the province’s freedom, democracy, and shared history.
Premier Doug Ford echoed the message in a social media video, calling Ontario home to “hardworking individuals, vibrant communities, and a spirit of innovation.”
Still, the announcement caught many Ontarians by surprise.
“I have never heard of Ontario Day and I was born and lived my entire life in Ontario,” posted @mamabear02x.
“Just found out about Ontario Day. On board. But does anyone know why it’s June 1st?” asked @ConfirmaCetera, noting it doesn’t appear to align with any major historical milestone like the creation of Upper Canada in 1791.
Others took a more cynical tone.
“In his video (Ford) forgot to mention he tried to steal the Greenbelt, his disastrous Bill 5 Power Grab, how he closed down the Science Centre and destroyed Ontario Place. But sure Doug, have a Happy Ont Day,” tweeted @portagebaygirl1.
So far, there are no official guidelines for how schools should mark the occasion, but the push for recognition suggests June 1 may start looking a little more festive in classrooms across Ontario.