Canadians are known for their love of outdoor activities, sports, and cultural events. From ice skating and skiing in the winter to fishing, hunting, and canoeing in the summer, Canadians enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities. Sports such as hockey, alpine and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, swimming, baseball, tennis, basketball, golf, soccer, and curling are all popular among Canadians. Visiting natural parks and exploring local ecosystems is a favorite pastime for many Canadians.
They take great care to respect the environment while enjoying outdoor activities such as walking, running, camping, or cycling. The “Cirque du Soleil” is a Canadian icon that showcases the country's French-speaking culture. Hiking is another popular activity among Canadians and expatriates alike. Canada is home to several high-profile sports teams that compete in Canadian and North American leagues.
Participation in sports is highest among Canadians under 25 years of age, but rates are nearly identical for all other age groups from 25 to 74 years old. With public funding, the government ensures that culture and entertainment are accessible to all Canadians. Canadians also enjoy attending cultural shows and take great pride in their native cultural products. Famous Canadian singers and musicians include Alanis Morrissette, Bryan Adams, Avril Lavigne, Michael Bublé, Nelly Furtado, Shania Twain, Diana Krall, Justin Bieber, the rock group Arcade Fire, the pop icon Paul Anka from the 50s and 60s, and the legendary pianist Glen Gould. Several universities have hiking clubs that offer international students a safe and fun way to explore Canadian nature with an expert guide. The Canadian music scene stands out with high-level exponents of artistic quality such as Leonard Cohen (Prince of Asturias Award 201) from Montreal and Neil Young from Toronto who is considered one of the most influential rock musicians of his generation. Most Canadians participate in competitive sports activities by forming their own leagues across the country.
They value their free time and use it to engage in recreational activities such as sports, contact with nature, and consuming cultural assets like cinema, theater shows, musicals, and art. Canadians spend 15.1% less of their income on culture and recreation than they did in 1994.
