Discovery Series Ornament – Canada
If you follow my blog, you probably remember this post where I pointed out the grammatical error on the cover of the Niagara Falls mug. The newly released Discovery Series Ornament – Canada has this error too, but I am sure Starbucks will fix that soon.
As for the design of the new ornament, here are the symbols of Canada that we see in it:
– The beaver is one of the most enduring symbols of Canada, representing the country’s dynamic and hardworking spirit. This animal became an official emblem of Canada in 1975, but its importance dates back to the fur trade era in the 17th century when beaver pelts were highly prized. The beaver’s image appears on various Canadian symbols, including the five-cent coin, showcasing its integral role in the nation’s history. The beaver’s resilience and resourcefulness symbolize the qualities that Canadians admire and strive to embody.
– The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is a spectacular natural phenomenon visible in Canada, particularly in the northern regions. This dazzling display of lights, caused by solar particles interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field, paints the sky in vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple. The northern lights are a major attraction for tourists, who flock to places like Yellowknife and Whitehorse to witness this breathtaking spectacle. For Indigenous peoples, the aurora borealis holds cultural and spiritual significance, often featured in legends and folklore, symbolizing a connection between the earthly and the divine.
– Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is one of Canada’s most iconic natural landmarks and a symbol of the country’s stunning wilderness. Established in 1885, it is Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. Banff attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing. The park embodies the spirit of conservation and the appreciation of nature that is central to Canada’s identity, making it a cherished national treasure.
Maple Syrup is a beloved Canadian delicacy, symbolizing the country’s natural bounty and culinary heritage. Harvested from the sap of sugar maple trees, primarily found in Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick, maple syrup production is a time-honored tradition in Canada. Each spring, maple trees are tapped, and the collected sap is boiled down to create the sweet syrup that Canadians and people around the world enjoy. Maple syrup is more than just a treat; it represents Canada’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and its deep connection to the land.
– Winter sports are a quintessential part of Canadian culture, reflecting the country’s snowy and cold climate. Ice hockey, often referred to simply as “hockey” in Canada, is not just a sport but a national obsession, with deep roots in Canadian communities. Other popular winter sports include skiing, snowboarding, and curling, each contributing to the vibrant winter sports scene. These activities are celebrated in numerous festivals and events, such as the Winter Olympics, where Canadian athletes often excel and bring home medals, further solidifying their significance in the national identity.
