Facts for Kids

St. John's is the colorful capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada! 🇨🇦 It sits on the eastern tip of North America, along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. With its bright, charming houses and friendly people, St. John's is known for its breathtaking views and rich culture. The city was founded in 1583, making it one of the oldest cities in North America! 🌅

St. John's has a lively arts scene, delicious seafood, and welcoming communities. Children and families can explore the outdoors or enjoy fun activities, making it a fantastic place to learn and discover new things! 🎈

St. John's is famous for its yummy food! 🍽

️ Seafood is a big deal here, especially fresh fish like cod, mussels, and lobster. People love to eat fish and chips or delicious seafood chowder! Some local treats to try include "Jigg's dinner," a traditional Newfoundland meal made with salt beef and veggies. Another favorite is "toutons," a fried dough treat served with syrup or molasses! 😋

St. John's also has cozy cafes and bakeries that serve homemade bread and pastries. The city is a culinary adventure, tempting everyone's taste buds! 🥖

Getting around St. John's is fun and easy! 🚍

The city has many transportation options, including buses, taxis, and the local airport. St. John's International Airport connects the city to other parts of Canada and the world! ✈

️ Buses are a great option for families who want to explore different areas without driving. The streets in St. John's are easy to navigate, and many places are within walking distance. Kids can ride their bikes or scooters to school and nearby parks, making it a very friendly city for families who love to explore together! 🚴

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St. John's is a melting pot of cultures! 🎭

The city celebrates its rich heritage through music, art, and storytelling. One of the most famous events is the St. John's Regatta, a boat race that has been held annually since 1816! People sing traditional Newfoundland songs called "Kitchen Party" tunes, 🥁

and you can find fantastic handmade crafts in local markets. The city is home to many museums, like The Rooms, which showcase artwork and history. St. John's also has a lively theater scene, so everyone, from kids to adults, can get involved in creative activities! 🎨

St. John's is surrounded by amazing wildlife and nature! 🦋

The area is home to various birds, like puffins and seagulls. You can often spot seals lounging on rocks or whales swimming nearby during the summer months! 🐋

The coastline is breathtaking, with hiking trails like the East Coast Trail for exploring. In places like Parks Canada’s Signal Hill National Historic Site, kids can discover lush green spaces, historic sites, and beautiful ocean views. 🌳

Nature lovers will love the parks and trails, making St. John's a fantastic place for outdoor adventures!

The economy of St. John's is diverse and fun! 💼

The city was historically known for fishing, especially cod, but today, it has many industries. The big ones include oil and gas, technology, and tourism! 🛢

️ Several large companies work offshore to explore oil resources. Tourism brings visitors from all over the world, attracted by its natural beauty, friendly people, and unique experiences. St. John's also has many small businesses, such as shops, restaurants, and cafes, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy delicious food and fun activities! 🍴

St. John's loves to celebrate! 🎉

The city hosts many festivals throughout the year. One of the biggest is the St. John's International Women's Film Festival, showcasing movies made by talented women. The Alterna Savings and St. John's Farmers' Market is a fun place to shop for fresh produce and local crafts. Another exciting event is the George Street Festival, featuring music, dancing, and delicious food! 🎶

These festivals bring everyone together and create a joyful atmosphere where family and friends can have fun and enjoy the city's incredible culture!

St. John's is located on the Avalon Peninsula, surrounded by stunning coastlines and rugged cliffs! 🏞

️ The city's highest point is Signal Hill, where you can see amazing views of the ocean! It has a cool, damp climate with four seasons. Summers are mild, usually ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while winters can be chilly, often falling below 0°C (32°F) ❄️. St. John's is famous for its foggy days, which make the city feel magical! The coastal environment is home to beautiful beaches, such as Cape Spear, the farthest point east in North America. 🏖

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St. John's has an exciting history! ⚓

️ It was first settled by John Cabot, an explorer from Italy, in 1497. The city was named after John the Baptist because Cabot discovered the area on June 24, which is his feast day! In 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert claimed St. John's for England. Over the years, the city grew and became an important fishing and trading spot. Many people came from Ireland and England to live here, adding to the city's culture. 🏰

St. John's has been affected by different wars, but it keeps thriving, making it a fascinating place to visit!

St. John's has great schools and educational institutions for kids! 🎓

The city is home to Memorial University of Newfoundland, which offers a wide variety of courses for older students. There are also several elementary and high schools where children can learn and grow. With hands-on activities, arts programs, and outdoor education, local schools make learning fun! 📚

Libraries in St. John's, like the A.C. Hunter Public Library, offer exciting programs, story times, and educational resources. This ensures that young learners have everything they need to succeed and explore their interests! 🧑

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