Canadians gather together once a year to give thanks for their many blessings and enjoy the company of loved ones. It's always the second Monday of October. Despite its religious roots, it has become a secular occasion for gatherings of friends and family to feast and give thanks.
Canadian Thanksgiving has unique origins that distinguish it from the American holiday, preceding the United States Thanksgiving holiday in Plymouth Plantation by 43 years. The Canadian holiday's origins can be traced back to an expression of gratitude for the safe arrival of explorers to the New World. However, it eventually became a religious celebration of God's provision in the form of a plentiful harvest in the fall.
What is the History of Canadian Thanksgiving?
Native Americans in the Americas celebrated the end of harvest and the abundance of their harvest with celebrations and rites long before European settlers and adventurers arrived in what is now Canada. To express gratitude for a boon, early Europeans gathered for Thanksgiving feasts. For instance, in 1578, Martin Frobisher staged a celebration. Following his successful attempt to locate a land route to Asia from Europe, he organized this event to celebrate his success.
Many celebrations of thanksgiving were held in the 18th century after significant events. To begin with, Canadians may thank American refugees who fled to Canada after the Civil War for introducing the annual thanksgiving celebration. Since its inception in 1879, Thanksgiving has been celebrated annually, though on varying dates and with varying emphasis. Blessings of a bountiful harvest were a regular refrain for many years.
From the end of World War I until 1930, the Monday closest to November 11 (the date that officially recognized the end of hostilities in World War 1) was observed as both Thanksgiving Day and Armistice Day. As of 1931, the day formerly known as Armistice Day is now known as Remembrance Day. Also, the holiday has been shifted from November to the first Monday in October. It was held on the second Monday of October, beginning in 1957.
How Do Canadians Celebrate Thanksgiving?
The second Monday of October is typically a day off for many individuals. Many people take advantage of the long Thanksgiving weekend to travel to see out-of-town relatives or host guests at their homes. Additionally, many spend some time over the long weekend preparing a special dinner to enjoy with family and friends. Typical components of this meal have included roasted turkey and seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, corn on the cob, and pecans. Other foods, especially if the family is not of European heritage, may now be included in the feast.
The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is one of the most sought-after times to get away this season. For some, this summer season is their final opportunity to use a vacation house or cottage before the cold weather arrives. Taking in the vibrant fall foliage of Canada is a favorite pastime, as are other outdoor pursuits like hiking and fishing. Canadian Football League supporters should plan to devote at least some of their weekend to watching the Thanksgiving Day Classic games.