The History of Thanksgiving in Canada

Thanksgiving in Canada has a rich history that is distinct from its American counterpart, evolving over centuries with various cultural and religious influences. The origins of Canadian Thanksgiving date back to early European settlers who arrived in North America. One of the first recorded celebrations occurred in 1578, when English explorer Martin Frobisher held a feast in the Eastern Arctic to give thanks for his safe arrival in what we now call Nunavut. This event is often cited as the first instance of Thanksgiving in North America which actually predates the American tradition.

In the early years, Canadian Thanksgiving celebrations were sporadic and primarily connected to religious observances. French settlers who arrived in what is now Quebec in the 17th century held feasts to celebrate the harvest and express gratitude for their survival in a challenging new land. These early harvest festivals laid the groundwork for what would later become the national holiday.

Thanksgiving as a formal holiday in Canada began to take shape in the 19th century. After the American Revolution, Loyalists who fled the United States brought with them customs, including Thanksgiving traditions, which blended with existing Canadian practices. The holiday became more established in the provinces, particularly as a time to celebrate the harvest and give thanks for peace and prosperity.

In 1879, Thanksgiving was officially declared a national holiday in Canada, though the date varied over the years. Initially, it was celebrated in November, but the date shifted several times before settling on the second Monday of October in 1957. This earlier timing reflects Canada’s shorter growing season compared to the United States, with harvests generally completed by early October.

Canadian Thanksgiving has become a family-centred holiday, marked by feasts that often include turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, similar to American traditions. However, it is also a distinctly Canadian celebration, tied closely to the country’s history, geography, and multicultural heritage.

Today, Thanksgiving in Canada is a secular holiday, though it retains some of its religious and agricultural roots. It serves as a time for Canadians to gather with family and friends, reflect on the blessings of the past year, and appreciate the natural bounty of their country.