Earlier than its U.S. cousin, Canadian Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October celebrates autumn's abundance with family feasts, vibrant fall foliage and a side of uniquely Canadian flair—think turkey stuffed with ketchup-chip dressing and pumpkin pie dusted with maple sugar.
Harvest Feasts & Comfort Classics
- Roast turkey centrepiece: Brined or butter-rubbed and roasted to golden perfection, served with gravy, cranberry relish and that signature ketchup-chip dressing.
- Pumpkin and squash: Creamy pumpkin pies, squash soups and roasted delicata drizzled in maple syrup.
- Root-vegetable sides: Maple-glazed carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes topped with toasted pecans.
- Over-the-top desserts: Butter tarts, Nanaimo bars and apple crisp with vanilla ice cream.
Autumn Outdoors & Fall Foliage
- Apple orchard visits: Pick-your-own at local farms—Gala, McIntosh and Honeycrisp varieties dominate.
- Maple-leaf hikes: Trails in Algonquin Park, Mont-Tremblant and Fundy National Park glow with red and gold.
- Vineyard tours: Niagara and Okanagan wineries host harvest festivals with grape stomping and tasting rooms.
Football & Community Traditions
- CFL matchups: Many gather around TVs or head to stadiums for Thanksgiving Day games—Blue Bombers vs. Tiger-Cats is a perennial favourite.
- Charity runs: “Turkey Trots” 5 km races raise funds for food banks and community kitchens.
- Community dinners: Churches and shelters serve free meals to ensure everyone enjoys holiday company and comfort food.
Cozy Home & Family Moments
- Table setting: Maple-leaf napkins, pumpkin-seed centrepieces and candlelit warmth invite lingering conversation.
- Board games & stories: After dinner, families break out Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit or share favourite harvest memories.
- Movie marathons: Classic Canadian films and Thanksgiving-themed specials on streaming keep everyone comfortable indoors.
Planning & Practical Tips
- Shop early for turkeys—farmers' markets and local butchers sell out fast in September.
- Reserve CFL tickets or viewing-party spots weeks ahead for popular matchups.
- Dress in layers for outdoor activities—October mornings can be crisp near 0 °C.
- Coordinate potluck contributions to balance mains, sides and desserts without last-minute stress.