Nestled along Canada's rugged Atlantic coastline, Nova Scotia, a maritime province rich in history and vibrant culture, dedicates a special day each year to honour its profound heritage. This observance, known as Heritage Day, is a public holiday celebrated annually on the third Monday of February. Established in 2015, it replaced the previously observed Family Day, marking a deliberate shift to underscore Nova Scotia's unique identity and contributions rather than a more general family-focused celebration.

Heritage Day is more than just a day off; it’s an educational and reflective occasion designed to immerse Nova Scotians, especially its youth, in the narratives that have shaped their province. A cornerstone of this holiday is a distinctive tradition: each year, school children across Nova Scotia actively participate in selecting a specific person or a significant event from the province's rich past to honour. This engaging process transforms history from a static subject into a dynamic, living story, fostering a deeper connection to their roots.

The Spirit of Honoring Nova Scotia's Past

The annual honoree for Heritage Day is carefully chosen to reflect the diverse tapestry of Nova Scotian history, celebrating individuals and moments that have left an indelible mark on the province and, often, the nation. This unique approach ensures that different facets of Nova Scotia’s heritage are brought into the spotlight each year, from trailblazers in human rights and arts to pivotal moments in the province's development. For instance, past honorees have included:

• Viola Desmond: A Black Nova Scotian businesswoman who famously challenged racial segregation in a New Glasgow movie theatre in 1946, paving the way for the civil rights movement in Canada. Her courage led to her being featured on the Canadian ten-dollar bill.
• Grand Chief Membertou: A revered Mi'kmaw leader who played a crucial role in establishing relations with early European settlers in the 17th century, representing the deep Indigenous roots of the land.
• Maud Lewis: A beloved folk artist whose vibrant, naive paintings captured the simple beauty of rural Nova Scotian life, despite her struggles with rheumatoid arthritis and poverty. Her tiny, painted house in Marshalltown is now a cherished exhibit at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia.
• Joseph Howe: A prominent journalist, politician, and premier who championed responsible government and freedom of the press in Nova Scotia during the 19th century, a foundational figure in Canadian democracy.
• Africville: A historic African Nova Scotian community in Halifax, whose tragic displacement in the 1960s serves as a powerful reminder of racial injustice and the importance of preserving community heritage.

By shining a light on these varied legacies, Heritage Day serves as a vital educational tool, encouraging students and the wider public to explore the lives and struggles of those who came before them, understanding their impact, and drawing lessons for the future. It’s a day for collective remembrance, celebration, and inspiring the next generation to value and contribute to Nova Scotia's ongoing story.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nova Scotia Heritage Day

When is Heritage Day celebrated in Nova Scotia?

Heritage Day is observed annually on the third Monday of February.

What is the purpose of Heritage Day in Nova Scotia?

The holiday aims to celebrate and educate the public, particularly school children, about significant people and events from Nova Scotia's rich history, fostering a deeper connection to the province's heritage.

Who chooses the annual honoree for Heritage Day?

Each year, school children in Nova Scotia participate in the selection process to choose a particular person or event to be honoured, making it an engaging and educational experience.

Did Heritage Day replace another holiday?

Yes, Heritage Day was established in 2015, replacing the previously observed Family Day holiday in Nova Scotia.