When people think of Canada, images of hockey rinks, maple syrup, and Mounties often come to mind. While these stereotypes hold some truth, there’s so much more to the Great White North than meets the eye. Canada is rich in history, culture, and quirky facts that even some Canadians might not know. Let’s dive into 10 surprising things about Canada that will make you see this vast country in a new light.

1. Lacrosse, Not Hockey, Is Canada’s National Sport

When it comes to sports, most people associate Canada with hockey. However, Canada’s official national sport is actually lacrosse. Originating from Indigenous cultures, lacrosse is one of the oldest organized sports in North America. The game was played by various First Nations long before European settlers arrived, and it held significant cultural and spiritual importance. In 1994, the Canadian Parliament declared lacrosse the national summer sport, with hockey taking the title of national winter sport.

A Brief History of Lacrosse: The game was originally played as a means to resolve conflicts, heal the sick, and develop strong, agile warriors. Early versions of lacrosse could involve hundreds of players and games could last several days. Today, lacrosse is played professionally across Canada, with teams such as the Toronto Rock, Saskatchewan Rush, and Calgary Roughnecks competing in the National Lacrosse League (NLL).

2. Basketball Was Invented in Canada

Another surprising fact is that basketball, the sport loved worldwide, has Canadian roots. Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor from Almonte, Ontario, invented basketball in 1891 while working at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts. Tasked with creating a new indoor game to keep students active during the winter, Naismith came up with the concept of basketball—a game involving a ball and a peach basket

Despite its Canadian origin, Canada has only one NBA team, the Toronto Raptors, who made history by winning their first NBA Championship in 2019. The Raptors have a strong following across the country, and their success has helped to grow the sport’s popularity in Canada.

3. Montreal’s Olympic Stadium: The First Retractable Roof Stadium

Montreal’s Olympic Stadium, often referred to as “The Big O,” is another interesting piece of Canadian history. Built for the 1976 Summer Olympics, the stadium was designed to have the first fully retractable roof. However, things didn’t go exactly as planned. The roof, which was supposed to retract and close within 20 minutes, ended up taking nearly 45 minutes, and often got stuck halfway. Over the years, the roof has been plagued with mechanical issues, leaks, and costly repairs, earning it the nickname “The Big Owe” due to its massive cost overruns

Despite these problems, the stadium remains an iconic structure in Montreal. It is used for a variety of events, from concerts to soccer games, and its distinctive design is a symbol of the city.

4. Canada Has More Lakes Than the Rest of the World Combined

Canada is known for its stunning natural landscapes, and one of the most impressive aspects of the country’s geography is its abundance of freshwater lakes. In fact, Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world combined, with an estimated 2 million lakes dotting its landscape. These lakes hold about 20% of the world’s freshwater, making Canada a vital player in global water resources.

Some of the most famous lakes include Lake Superior, Lake Ontario, and Lake Louise, each offering breathtaking scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.

5. The Longest Coastline in the World

With its vast landmass, it’s no surprise that Canada also boasts the longest coastline in the world, stretching over 243,000 kilometers. This coastline touches three different oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic, giving Canada a unique maritime presence. The diversity of Canada’s coastal regions is remarkable, from the rugged cliffs of Newfoundland to the temperate rainforests of British Columbia.

6. The Invention of the Zipper

Here’s another everyday item with Canadian origins—the zipper. Invented by Gideon Sundback, a Swedish-Canadian electrical engineer, in 1913, the modern zipper revolutionized clothing and accessories. Sundback’s design was a vast improvement over earlier versions and became widely adopted in the fashion industry. Today, zippers are ubiquitous, yet few people know they have a Canadian connection.

7. Canada's Thriving Gaming Industry

The gaming industry in Canada is a significant part of the country’s economy, with both land-based and online casinos playing a major role. A trusted Canadian online casino suggests that the country's gaming laws provide a safe and regulated environment for players. Canada is home to some of the world’s most renowned casino destinations, such as Casino Niagara in Ontario and Casino de Montréal in Quebec. These casinos attract millions of visitors each year, offering a variety of gaming options, entertainment shows, and luxurious accommodations. Whether you're a fan of slots, poker, or table games, Canada's online casinos offer various options, ensuring a fun and secure experience for all.

8. Winnie the Pooh’s Canadian Connection

The beloved children’s character Winnie the Pooh was inspired by a real bear named Winnipeg, or “Winnie” for short. Winnie was a Canadian black bear cub purchased by a Canadian soldier during World War I and became the mascot of his regiment. Later, Winnie was donated to the London Zoo, where she became a favorite of A.A. Milne’s son, Christopher Robin. This inspired Milne to write the famous stories we all know today.

9. Canada’s Love for Ketchup Chips

While ketchup chips might seem strange to non-Canadians, they’re a beloved snack in Canada. These tangy, savory chips are uniquely Canadian, and their popularity has even led to other ketchup-flavored snacks. If you haven’t tried them yet, they’re a must for any snack enthusiast visiting Canada.

10. The World’s Most Educated Country

Canada takes education seriously, so much so that it ranks as the most educated country in the world. Over half of the adult population holds a tertiary degree, and Canadian universities are renowned for their research and academic programs. The strong emphasis on education has contributed to Canada’s high standard of living and economic success.

11. The Maple Leaf: More Than Just a Symbol

The maple leaf is synonymous with Canada, proudly displayed on the national flag. However, the significance of the maple leaf dates back centuries. Indigenous peoples used maple sap as a food source long before European settlers arrived. The leaf became a symbol of Canada in the 18th century and was incorporated into the national flag in 1965. Today, it represents the unity, tolerance, and nature-loving spirit of Canadians.
Canada is a country full of surprises, with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that extends far beyond its well-known stereotypes. Whether you’re exploring its national sports, quirky snacks, or architectural feats, there’s always something new to discover in this great nation. So the next time you think of Canada, remember that it’s more than just hockey and maple syrup—though we’re pretty proud of those too!

11 Surprising Facts About Canada That Will Blow Your Mind