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In celebration of Great Britain's longest reigning monarch, Victoria Day is an annual celebration which occurs on the last Monday prior to May 25th.

Watch for 2012 celebrations kicking off across Canada and other former British colonies on Monday, May 21.

In Canada, Victoria Day is a dual celebration of the birthdays of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II. Established as a holiday in Ontario in 1845, it became a national Canadian holiday in 1901. Today, Victoria Day also serves serves as the unofficial start of a Canadian summer and a great day for barbecues and spectacular fireworks displays.

More about Victoria Day around the Web:

Find out more about the celebration (aka Firecracker Day or Fête de la Reine) along with fun facts, party ideas, kids' activities, special events, and a bit of trivia about Victoria Day celebrations ...

Victoria Day Events - Toronto - What's happening where in and around Toronto, including a schedule of fireworks displays, fairs, festivals and related events.

Victoria Day - The official Canadian Heritage site with a brief history and overview of other royal birthday observances.

Crayola.com Calendar - Victoria Day (Canada) - Great online fun for the kids featuring printable coloring pages, craft ideas, e-cards and lesson plans.

Canadian Crafts - EnchantedLearning.com - More fun ideas including fireworks coloring activity, a Canadian flag flower pot, and related crafts.

A Victoria Day Tea Party - A handful of ideas for creating holiday fun with the kids with a complete menu and recipes for Victorian sandwiches, fruity fizz punch and more.

also see in Holidays -> Canada Day | Queen's Birthday