Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving History

Thanksgiving in Canada is a national holiday that expresses gratitude for a bountiful harvest, and blessings received throughout the year. This celebration serves as an opportunity for Canadians to come together with their families, friends, and loved ones to reflect on all the good fortune in their lives, and to share their thanks for the various aspects of their lives that they cherish.

Thanksgiving in Canada can be traced back to the voyages of Martin Frobisher in the 16th century. Frobisher and his crew held a small feast as a symbol of gratitude for their safe journey, marking the first recorded observance of Thanksgiving in Canadian history. Over time, Thanksgiving celebrations in the country have evolved, with lasting traditions like feasting on turkey and other seasonal delights remaining a vital aspect of the holiday for many Canadians.

The observance of Canadian Thanksgiving typically includes preparing and enjoying a festive meal featuring an assortment of seasonal dishes and ingredients. These meals often consist of foods commonly associated with autumn, such as turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberries, and pumpkin pie. Additionally, spending time with loved ones and partaking in activities, such as watching football games or giving back to the community through charitable acts, are significant ways that the holiday is celebrated. Canadian Thanksgiving is typically observed on the second Monday of October each year, providing Canadians with an opportunity to pay homage to their good fortune and partake in this time-honored tradition.