Note: Australia Day begins in 13+ hours.
January 26th is Australia Day! This national holiday is the biggest holiday in Australia. On this day, Australians celebrate their national heritage, remembering what is great about their culture, their community and to make a commitment for the future.
For our community members in Australia, Happy Australia Day! We salute you!
As described on the official site:
During the early nineteenth century the anniversary was called 'Foundation Day' and was usually marked by sporting events. Horseracing was popular in the 1820s, whilst regattas became popular in the 1830s.
One of these, the Anniversary Regatta which was first held in 1836, is still held on Sydney Harbor on January 26 each year. Now called the Australia Day Regatta it is the oldest continuous regatta in the world.
A growing sense of patriotism was also being expressed in other ways. In 1824 Charles Tompson, reputed to be our first Australia-born poet, composed Wild Notes from the Lyre of a Native Minstrel.
Fifty years after Phillip landed Australia's first public holiday was announced to celebrate Foundation Day 1838. The inaugural holiday became an annual event and has continued to be held on or around January 26.
To learn more about Australia day, visit the official web site:
About Australia Day
History of Australia Day
