25 Facts About Canadian Thanksgiving 2025

Canadian Thanksgiving: A Unique Celebration

Canadian Thanksgiving, celebrated on the second Monday of October, is a time for gratitude, family gatherings, and delicious feasts. While it shares similarities with its American counterpart, Canadian Thanksgiving has its own distinct traditions and history. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this beloved holiday.

1. Canadian Thanksgiving predates American Thanksgiving by 43 years. The first Canadian Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1578 by English explorer Martin Frobisher and his crew, who were thankful for their safe arrival in the New World.

2. The holiday was officially declared a national holiday in 1879. Initially, it was celebrated on November 6, but the date was later changed to the second Monday in October to avoid conflicting with Remembrance Day.

3. Unlike American Thanksgiving, which commemorates the Pilgrims' harvest feast, Canadian Thanksgiving is more about giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year.

Traditions and Customs

Canadian Thanksgiving traditions vary across the country, but certain customs are widely observed. From feasts to parades, these traditions make the holiday special.

4. A traditional Canadian Thanksgiving meal often includes roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. However, regional variations exist, with some families opting for ham, roast beef, or even seafood.

5. Many Canadians attend church services on Thanksgiving Day to give thanks and reflect on their blessings. These services often include special hymns, prayers, and readings.

6. The Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade is a popular event in Ontario. It features floats, marching bands, and performers, drawing thousands of spectators each year.

Regional Differences

Canada's vast geography and diverse population contribute to regional differences in Thanksgiving celebrations. Let's take a closer look at how various provinces celebrate the holiday.

7. In Newfoundland and Labrador, a traditional Thanksgiving meal might include Jigg's dinner, a boiled meal of salt beef, cabbage, potatoes, and other root vegetables.

8. In Quebec, Thanksgiving is known as "Action de Grâce." While the holiday is not as widely celebrated as in other provinces, those who do observe it often enjoy a meal of turkey, tourtière (meat pie), and maple syrup desserts.

9. In British Columbia, many families take advantage of the long weekend to go hiking, camping, or enjoy other outdoor activities, thanks to the province's stunning natural landscapes.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Canadian Thanksgiving is full of interesting tidbits and trivia that make the holiday even more intriguing. Here are some fun facts to share at your next Thanksgiving gathering.

10. The Canadian Football League (CFL) hosts the Thanksgiving Day Classic, a doubleheader of football games that has become a beloved tradition for many sports fans.

11. The first Thanksgiving Day in Canada was not about the harvest but rather a celebration of surviving a long journey. Martin Frobisher and his crew celebrated their safe arrival in what is now Newfoundland.

12. The date of Canadian Thanksgiving was changed several times before settling on the second Monday in October. It was once celebrated in April and later in November.

Thanksgiving in Modern Times

In today's fast-paced world, Canadian Thanksgiving continues to evolve. Modern celebrations often blend traditional customs with contemporary practices.

13. Many Canadians use the long weekend to travel and visit family and friends, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

14. Some families opt for a potluck-style Thanksgiving dinner, where each guest brings a dish to share. This approach not only lightens the host's workload but also allows for a diverse and delicious spread.

15. Vegetarian and vegan Thanksgiving meals are becoming increasingly popular, with plant-based alternatives to traditional dishes like turkey and stuffing.

Thanksgiving and the Environment

As awareness of environmental issues grows, many Canadians are finding ways to make their Thanksgiving celebrations more sustainable.

16. Farm-to-table Thanksgiving meals are gaining popularity, with families sourcing ingredients from local farmers and markets to support local agriculture and reduce their carbon footprint.

17. Reducing food waste is a priority for many households. Creative use of leftovers, such as turning turkey into sandwiches or soups, helps minimize waste and stretch the holiday feast.

18. Eco-friendly decorations, such as reusable table settings and natural centerpieces made from seasonal fruits and foliage, are becoming more common.

Thanksgiving and Community

Thanksgiving is not just about family; it's also a time to give back to the community and help those in need.

19. Many Canadians volunteer at soup kitchens, food banks, and shelters during Thanksgiving, providing meals and support to those less fortunate.

20. Community Thanksgiving dinners are organized in many towns and cities, offering a warm meal and companionship to those who might otherwise spend the holiday alone.

21. Schools and community centers often hold food drives in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, collecting non-perishable items for local food banks.

Thanksgiving and Indigenous Peoples

The relationship between Thanksgiving and Indigenous peoples in Canada is complex and multifaceted. It's important to acknowledge and respect this aspect of the holiday.

22. Some Indigenous communities have their own harvest celebrations that predate European contact. These celebrations often include feasting, dancing, and giving thanks for the bounty of the land.

23. For many Indigenous people, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the impact of colonization and the importance of preserving their cultural traditions and connection to the land.

24. Efforts to include Indigenous perspectives and traditions in Thanksgiving celebrations are growing, with some Canadians incorporating Indigenous foods, stories, and customs into their holiday observances.

Thanksgiving and Popular Culture

Canadian Thanksgiving has made its mark on popular culture, appearing in various forms of media and entertainment.

25. Several Canadian TV shows and movies feature Thanksgiving episodes or scenes, highlighting the holiday's significance and the various ways it is celebrated across the country.

The Heart of Canadian Thanksgiving

Canadian Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday; it's a celebration of gratitude, community, and history. From its roots in European harvest festivals to its unique traditions like pumpkin pie and turkey, this day brings families and friends together. Whether you're enjoying a feast, watching football, or taking in the fall foliage, there's something for everyone.

Remember, Canadian Thanksgiving isn't just about the food. It's a time to reflect on what you're thankful for and to appreciate the people around you. So, as you gather around the table this year, take a moment to share your gratitude and create lasting memories.

Whether you're a long-time celebrant or new to the tradition, Canadian Thanksgiving offers a rich tapestry of customs and stories that make it a special time of year. Enjoy the festivities and cherish the moments with loved ones.