Victoria Day is a Canadian holiday celebrated on the Monday before May 25, marking the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was the reigning monarch at the time of Canada's birth as a country. This day signifies the beginning of summer and the arrival of warmer weather, providing Canadians with a chance to enjoy outdoor activities after a long winter. Customs associated with Victoria Day include swimming, sports tournaments, and summer feasts. The holiday has colonial roots, having been established in 1845, and was solidified as an official national holiday after Queen Victoria's death. It is not widely observed outside Canada, although some parts of Scotland celebrate it. The day is often marked with fireworks and gatherings, emphasizing the festive spirit of welcoming summer.