Discovery Day

**Discovery Day in Canada** is a public holiday celebrated in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador on the Monday closest to June 24th. It commemorates the arrival of John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto), an Italian explorer sailing under the English flag, who is believed to have reached the shores of Newfoundland in 1497. This event marked the first documented European exploration of the region since the Norse Vikings centuries earlier. The holiday honors the discovery of Newfoundland and its significance in Canadian history, particularly in shaping the cultural and economic ties between Europe and North America. Festivities often include parades, cultural events, and community gatherings, celebrating the province's rich heritage and maritime traditions. Discovery Day is a time for reflection on the region's history and its contributions to Canada's identity.