Thanksgiving is a widely celebrated holiday in Canada and holds significant cultural importance. Falling on the second Monday in October, the holiday dates back to 1879. Although the holiday is not a legal holiday in all provinces and territories, it is a statutory holiday in most, enabling Canadians to have the day off work and celebrate with their families and loved ones.
The holiday is centered around giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. Traditionally, the holiday includes a feast, often featuring a turkey, cranberries, and other dishes popular in the fall harvest period. Families and friends come together to share these meals, enjoy each other's company, express gratitude for their blessings, and think on what they've been grateful for over the past year.
In addition to its convivial nature, Canadian Thanksgiving also incorporates various parades and community events. In some places, people participate in outdoor activities like hiking, apple picking, and pumpkin carving due to the agreeable autumn weather. The holiday also marks the beginning of the holiday season in Canada, setting a positive and festive mood that continues through December.