Australia Day is a national holiday celebrated on January 26th, marking the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, New South Wales in 1788. This event marks the beginning of British colonization in Australia and the start of the country’s history as a British colony.
The holiday has been celebrated since 1818 and was officially declared a national holiday in 1994. However, not all Australians view the day positively, as it represents the start of the displacement of Indigenous Australians. In recent years, there has been a push to change the date of the holiday to a more inclusive and culturally sensitive one.
Traditionally, Australia Day is celebrated with a variety of activities and events, including parades, barbecues, sports competitions, and fireworks displays. Many people also fly the Australian flag, attend citizenship ceremonies, and participate in local community events.
One popular way to celebrate Australia Day is by having a traditional Australian barbecue or “barbie” with friends and family. This often includes dishes such as sausages, burgers, and seafood. Another popular tradition is the “Australia Day swim,” where people take a dip in the ocean or local swimming hole to cool off on a hot summer’s day.
Another way to celebrate Australia Day is by participating in cultural events and activities that showcase the diverse heritage of the country. This can include Indigenous cultural events, music and dance performances, and food festivals that highlight the country’s multicultural makeup.
Australia Day is also a time for Australians to come together and reflect on their national identity, and to celebrate the achievements and contributions of the country’s citizens. Many people also use the day to reflect on the history of the country and the ongoing struggle for reconciliation with Indigenous Australians.
Most councils in Australia will be holding pool parties on the day, and these include the much awaited Canterbury Bankstown pool parties. You can find out more about them here.
