When is Canadian Thanksgiving? A guide to celebrating in 2024

Thanksgiving in Canada is a cherished time of year, bringing together family, friends, and a sense of gratitude. For newcomers to the country, it can be a heartwarming experience, filled with autumn colours, delicious food, and traditions that span generations. But you might be wondering, "When is Canadian Thanksgiving, and what makes it special?" This holiday not only marks the end of the harvest season but also serves as a moment to appreciate life’s blessings in true Canadian spirit. Whether you’re gathering around a table for the first time or looking to embrace new customs, Canadian Thanksgiving offers something truly unique to everyone.

When is Canadian Thanksgiving in 2024?

In 2024, Canadian Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Monday, October 14. This date allows Canadians to enjoy the early autumn weather and gather with loved ones before the winter months arrive. Whether you’re new to Canada or have lived here for years, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for the good things in life.

Why is Canadian Thanksgiving in October?

Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated in October primarily due to the country's earlier harvest season. Given Canada’s northern climate, the harvest occurs earlier than in the United States, where Thanksgiving is celebrated in late November. Traditionally, Canadian Thanksgiving marked the end of the harvest season, offering a time to give thanks for the abundance of crops before the onset of winter.

The holiday has its roots in the European harvest festivals and the first Thanksgiving celebration held by English explorer Martin Frobisher in 1578. This early celebration was a way to give thanks for the safe passage across the Atlantic Ocean. Later, French settlers in Canada also introduced harvest celebrations that involved feasts and sharing food with Indigenous peoples.

In 1957, the Canadian Parliament officially declared the second Monday of October as "a day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed." Since then, Canadians have observed Thanksgiving on this date.

How is Canadian Thanksgiving celebrated?

Canadian Thanksgiving is a public holiday in most provinces, allowing families to gather and enjoy a long weekend together. The celebration usually involves:

• Thanksgiving dinner: A traditional Thanksgiving meal often features roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. While these foods are similar to those served during American Thanksgiving, Canadian Thanksgiving meals can also include regional dishes, reflecting Canada’s diverse cultural influences.
• Outdoor activities: With Thanksgiving falling in early October, the weather is usually crisp but not too cold, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities. Many Canadians spend the weekend enjoying nature, hiking, or visiting parks to admire the fall foliage.
• Parades and festivals: Some cities host parades and festivals to mark the Thanksgiving weekend. For example, Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, is known for its annual Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade.

How newcomers can celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving

For newcomers, Canadian Thanksgiving is an opportunity to participate in local customs and connect with others. Here are a few ways to get involved:

• Host or join a Thanksgiving dinner: If you have friends, family, or acquaintances in Canada, consider hosting or attending a Thanksgiving meal. It's a great way to experience Canadian hospitality and try traditional dishes.
• Explore fall activities: Take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities. Visit a local park, go apple picking, or take a hike to admire the fall colours.
• Volunteer: Thanksgiving is also about giving back. Many communities host food drives, soup kitchens, and charity events. Volunteering can be a fulfilling way to give thanks and support those in need.

While Canadian Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and celebration, it can also be a reminder of the journey many newcomers face when settling in a new country. Starting over, especially in terms of career and finances, can be challenging. Windmill Microlending is here to support newcomers in rebuilding their careers and achieving financial stability.

Windmill Microlending offers affordable loans of up to $15,000 to help internationally trained professionals cover the costs of education, licensing, and credential recognition in Canada. With flexible repayment options, Windmill Microlending makes it easier for newcomers to invest in their future and work toward their career goals.

As you gather around the Thanksgiving table this year, remember that there are resources available to help you succeed in your new home.