Explores the creation, development, and evolution of Emancipation Day festivities celebrating the end of slavery throughout the British Empire with the passage of the Abolition of Slavery act (1834). Topics include the social, cultural, political and educational practices of festivities across Canada, with a focus on Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec and British Columbia.

Pt. 1. Interpreting Emancipation Day celebrations: Exploring the meaning of Emancipation Day ; From enslavement to freedom. Pt. 2. The route to celebrations in Ontario: Southwestern Ontario ; Central Ontario ; The Niagara region ; Around the northern territories. Pt. 3. Celebrations in other parts of Canada: Quebec : Montreal ; The Maritimes ; British Columbia. Pt. 4. Other elements of Emancipation Day: The role of women in Emancipation Day celebrations ; Dissent and diminution ; The evolution of Emancipation Day ; The legacy of Emancipation Day celebrations.