There are only two countries that celebrate Thanksgiving in North America, and this is Canada and the USA. These two neighboring countries share a lot of things in common, but one thing is different for sure, the way they celebrate thanksgiving.
Here 5 ways Canadian Thanksgiving is different than the USA:
Canadian Thanksgiving is more relaxed and intimate
Canadian thanksgiving is down a notch compared to the USA. Since it is celebrated on a Monday and supposedly the last day of a long weekend, most Canadian families wrap it up by having an intimate dinner at their respective homes, surrounded by their significant loved ones, enjoying their favorite thanksgiving staples. In more sentimental settings, family and friends go on sharing about the things they are thankful for and for the hopes they have in the future that creates a deeper bond.
It is celebrated on a Monday and in October
Though thought to be an odd day for a festivity, Canadians celebrate thanksgiving every second Monday of the month of October whereas it is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the USA. Hey, cheer up! This makes it a long weekend and most Canadians take this opportunity to travel, or simply unwind.
No crazy shopping day after thanksgiving – Black Friday
Everybody in the USA knows what comes after Thanksgiving – Black Friday! This is the most awaited shopping day of the year for most Americans wherein shops give massive discounts to a point that people would camp outside electronic shops so that they’ll be first in line when it opens. Isn’t it ironic that right after a holiday of giving thanks for all that you have, it is immediately followed by another holiday (sort of) wherein you shop for more things? Well, not in Canada since there is no “Black Friday” and thanksgiving is followed by a business day, which means most people are back to work or school – but hey, Canadians are fun too, we have a similar day to go crazy for shopping and this is called “Boxing Day”. Boxing Day comes after Christmas Day, December 26. Also, cyber Mondays are a thing in Canada, this started in November 2005 which was done to encourage people to shop online.
It’s not Canadian food without maple syrup
Canadians, like their American counterparts, serve turkey for Thanksgiving dinner, but maple syrup is the key to making it truly Canadian. Maple-glazed roasted turkey is Canada’s take on the classic roasted turkey. Brussel sprouts glazed with maple syrup and a hint of chili is also a staple side. The autumn harvest also makes it to the table, and who could forget about pumpkin pies? Pumpkin pie is a staple dessert to finish off a great Thanksgiving meal.
There’s no Thanksgiving parade, but it’s a perfect time to go outside!
There is no thanksgiving parade that Canadians look forward to that makes them go and gather outside, however, nature is what makes Canadians go out. Since thanksgiving happens at the early start of the autumn season, the weather is crisp, not too cold or gloomy, that’s why most Canadians take advantage of this and take a stroll or hike during the day.
Although this article pointed out the difference between the two countries, there is one thing common for sure, both countries celebrate thanksgiving to show appreciation and gratitude.
Learn more about thanksgiving between Canada and USA in the video below.