Why Do Canadians Celebrate Thanksgiving in October, and How is It Different From The U.S. One?

The Thanksgiving countdown has started: a little over a month, and schools will close, families will reunite, turkeys will be stuffed and baked, and pumpkin pies along with other iconic side dishes will perfume the air. That’s it—if you’re in the U.S. All of this—or maybe a bit less—has already happened in Canada. Wait, you didn’t know Canada celebrated Thanksgiving too? You’re in for a treat (pun intended).

Why is There a Canadian Thanksgiving, Exactly?

In 2024, Canadian Thanksgiving was celebrated on October 14th, marking the second Monday of the month as a day of gratitude and food festivities. But why do Canadians celebrate it, and why in October? Unlike the American Thanksgiving, which is tied to the Pilgrims and their autumn feast with the Wampanoag, Canadian Thanksgiving has roots in early explorers like Martin Frobisher, who was grateful just to survive the long voyage from England in 1578. While his feast was probably more about survival rations than stuffing and pie, this sentiment of thankfulness remained. Over time, the holiday evolved to celebrate a bountiful harvest—a more fitting reason for the earlier date since Canada’s growing season wraps up sooner due to its cooler climate.

How Canadian Thanksgiving Differs From the U.S. One

While Canadian Thanksgiving may feel like a “turkey-day remix,” there are some notable differences that set it apart from its American cousin.

1. Timing is Everything

First off, there’s the timing. Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday of October, over a month before the U.S. version. The earlier date reflects the reality of Canada’s growing season, which means that by late November, the fields are frosty, and harvest time is long gone. In other words, it’s too cold for cornucopias.

2. The Focus Isn’t as Historical

The Canadian version is less steeped in historic lore and pilgrim hats; there’s no iconic feast between settlers and Indigenous people. While the holiday still emphasizes giving thanks and celebrating the harvest, it doesn’t come with the heavy emphasis on colonial history. Canadians, instead, embrace it more as a time for family gatherings and appreciating the season’s bounty without the cultural baggage.

What's on the Menu for Canadian Thanksgiving, Eh? 

Now, what’s Thanksgiving without the food, right? Canadian Thanksgiving tables aren’t too far off from the American setup, but with some subtle (and delicious) twists. Turkey is still the star, often accompanied by stuffing and mashed potatoes, but you’ll find Canadian additions like maple-glazed everything (because, maple syrup—of course) and butter tarts, a classic dessert that’s a love letter to sweet, gooey decadence.

Why these dishes, you ask? Well, Canada’s harvest season lends itself to plenty of root vegetables, squash, and fresh cranberries, making those items not just tradition but also local, seasonal treasures. And let’s not forget the iconic pumpkin pie—Canada might not shout about it as loudly as the U.S., but it’s a cozy, comforting favorite that adds just the right touch of spice to wrap up the feast.