Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday in Canada, celebrated on the second Monday in October each year. It’s a time to give thanks for the harvest and to gather with family and friends. In this blog post, we’ll explore the traditions, food, and festivities that make Canadian Thanksgiving a special occasion.
The history of Thanksgiving in Canada
Thanksgiving has been celebrated in Canada since 1578, when English explorer Martin Frobisher held a ceremony to give thanks for surviving a long journey to the Canadian Arctic. However, it wasn’t until 1879 that Thanksgiving became a national holiday, thanks to the efforts of politician Sir John A. Macdonald.
Traditions and festivities
Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather and give thanks for their blessings. Many Canadians attend church services, while others participate in parades or watch football games. One of the most popular Thanksgiving traditions is the turkey dinner. Families often spend the day preparing a feast that includes roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
Another popular Thanksgiving tradition is the Canadian Football League’s Thanksgiving Day Classic, which features two football games played on Thanksgiving Monday. The first game is held in the early afternoon, and the second game is held in the evening.
Food and drink
As mentioned, the centerpiece of Canadian Thanksgiving dinner is the roast turkey. However, other traditional Thanksgiving foods include:
- Stuffing: A savory mixture of bread, herbs, and spices that is baked inside the turkey.
- Mashed potatoes: Boiled potatoes that are mashed with milk and butter.
- Gravy: A sauce made from the turkey drippings that is poured over the mashed potatoes and turkey.
- Cranberry sauce: A sweet and tart sauce made from cranberries.
- Pumpkin pie: A dessert made from pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, and a pastry crust.
In addition to the traditional foods, many Canadians also enjoy drinking apple cider, wine, or beer with their Thanksgiving meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thanksgiving is a special holiday in Canada that brings families and friends together to give thanks for their blessings. Whether you’re enjoying a turkey dinner, watching a football game, or attending a parade, there are many ways to celebrate this festive occasion.
