Newfoundland and Labrador is arguably the most coolest and most unique province in Canada. Mostly because we are full of personality. Funny to the bone and an easy going lifestyle make Newfoundlanders and Labradorians loveable. Best known as THE ROCK and THE BIGLAND. We have so many traditions that make us unique but here are 5 of my favs and I really don’t think you can find these in any other Canadian province
Welcome to the world of Mummering!
Mummering is a very unique tradition in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador! Mummering is a representation of our fun loving nature and is tied deeply to the sense of who we are. In the past mummers were depicted as mischievous characters but nowadays they are colourful characters that exude joy and fun. Mummers are everywhere!! Christmas ornaments, Clothing, towels, magnets and all kinds of music and fun surround this age old tradition. The Mummers Festival in St Johns has played a big part in its revival. It takes place every year in December teaching the average Joe how to be the bestest Mummer. Lessons on how to dress, ugly stick workshops, and even a parade whereby you get to strut your stuff in your Sunday best outfit and become a Mummer for a day!
The most famous NL musical duo Samani wrote a song about it called “ The Mummers Song” It is probably one of the most famous Christmas songs in NL history. It’s just don’t seem like Christmas if the mummers are not here, Granny would say as she knit in her chair….One of the oldest traditions in the province that was brought to the island by our ancestors in Ireland it continues to evolve and thrive!
Want to become an honorary Newfoundlander?
Becoming an honorary Newfoundlanders is a quirky tradition that all the CFA's partake in. First you must kiss the cod. Yes a real one if you are serious about becoming one of us but in recent years as cod we hard to find you could kiss a stuffed puffin. Christians Pub on George Street does a great group Screech In. They actually have a FROZEN cod in the freezer just waiting for you to pucker up. Second, you must eat the unofficial delicacy meat of Newfoundland. The wild bolonga. A true Newfie absolutely loves this stuff. It’s processed meat which no one knows what it is really made of. Lol. The best way to have it is fried with breakfast, on a sandwich, in a stew or on the BBQ. Third you must yammer on like a Newfie and repeat after your host. It usually goes something like this…. Is you a Newfoundlander? You respond by saying… Deed I is me ole cock! That just means yes I am my old friend! Then they ask if you are ready to become a Newfoundlander. You respond with Yes by’. If you do not get the accent right you just have to repeat it until you get it right. Then you just say “ Long May your big job draw”. Which simply means good luck and have safe travel in newfinease! Lastly you have to swallow a shot of Screech which is our provincial rum. It’s strong and it will burn going down but then just like that you are one of us! You get a certificate and everything just to solidify the act. Then you are one of US!
Many versions of the Screech In ceremony exist in our province and most people put their own twist on the event. One thing that you can be sure of is that if you visit you must become an honorary Newfoundlander!
We have a town called Dildo!
Welcome to Dildo, a charming and quirky town nestled on the scenic shores of Trinity Bay in Newfoundland, Canada. Despite its unusual name, Dildo is a destination that offers more than just laughs – it's a place where natural beauty, local charm, and a laid-back atmosphere come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.
Dildo is a picturesque coastal town surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. As you approach the town, you'll be greeted by stunning views of Trinity Bay, dotted with rugged cliffs and beautiful ocean views. The scenic beauty here is perfect for nature enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and whale-watching tours available.
No travel experience is complete without trying the local brews, and Dildo doesn't disappoint. The Dildo Brewery Co. is a must-visit for beer lovers. This charming microbrewery not only offers a range of delicious craft beers but also provides an inviting and friendly atmosphere. You can take a brewery tour to learn about the beer-making process, followed by a tasting session to sample their unique brews. Sip on a pint of "Dildo Delight" while enjoying scenic views of the bay from the brewery's deck.
It’s a great way to spend the day if you are on the east coast of our island. There is plenty of things to do when you visit us. Check out my other blog on "Dildo for A Day" if you were here on our lovely island!
We kinda have our own language and time zone!
Do you want to go out for supper? YES BY’
Do you know Lisa Marie passed on? YES BY’
Do you know that my car broke down? YES BY’
Do you know that someone won a million dollars? YES BY'
YES BY' is the most famous of all phrases in the province and has at least 17 meanings.
Newfoundland English is characterized by its distinctive pronunciation, including features such as "Canadian raising." This means that the diphthong sounds in words like "about" and "house" are pronounced differently, with a noticeable raising of the vowel sounds.
The province has a rich vocabulary with unique words and expressions influenced by Irish, Scottish, and West Country English, as well as Indigenous and other regional languages. For example, terms like "b'y" (short for "boy") and "skeet" (meaning a young, mischievous person) are commonly used.
Dropping of the "H": Many Newfoundlanders tend to drop the "h" sound at the beginning of words. For example, "house" may sound like "ouse."
Overall, the dialects and accents of Newfoundland and Labrador are a testament to the province's rich cultural history and the resilience of its communities. While there may be variations in speech across the region, one common thread is the warmth and friendliness of the people, who are always eager to share their unique linguistic heritage with visitor
As for the time zone... we are a half hour earlier than the rest of Canada. This means that we ring in the New Year as the first in North America which is super cool!
We have the only civic holiday in Canada that depends on the weather!
The Royal St. John’s Regatta is like the grandpa of all sports events in North America, boasting a whopping 200 years of rowing madness on Quidi Vidi Lake. Imagine rowers battling fierce winds – talk about drama! The event hinges on the morning wind forecast, deciding the fate of record-breakers and local charities' snack stands. With a crowd of over 50,000 folks, this bash is dubbed the world's biggest garden party. It's a mash-up of games, chitchat, and, of course, epic races. We love a leisurely pond-side stroll, munching on treats and soaking in the vibrant vibes. The regatta began as a fierce competition among rowing pros chasing gold and glory. These days, it's a must-do activity in St. Johns, promising a blast for the whole fam!
You do not need a liquor store to buy beer!
In Newfoundland, you can snag a cold one from any corner store but not grocery stores. You can also find beer at the local NLC too of course! It's a quirky Newfoundland thing. In other provinces, you'll need to swing by a fancy liquor or beer shop. Why this boozy setup, you wonder? Well, some far-off communities need their cozy pint fix, and hey, with Irish roots in the mix, a sip of cheer is expected.
As far as uniqueness goes Newfoundland and Labrador is a 11 out if 10. We celebrate almost everything here in this province. With folk festivals, food festivals, Mummer festivals and any ole excuse to have a good time Newfoundland and Labrador will never leave you hanging. Just ask the locals if you crave interesting facts about our culture and heritage!!
Welcome to NL and welcome to my blog where I just share stories about our province. I fell in love with NL during the pandemic and I am on a mission to tell the whole world why we are super cool!! Check out our website for some awesome spots to visit at StaycationNL and other unique facts about our province!
Thanks for following! Much love
Lori
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