Thanksgiving in Canada: Preparation, Traditions, and What You Need to Know

Thanksgiving in Canada is a time to gather with family and friends, celebrate the harvest, and enjoy a feast. Taking place on the second Monday of October, Canadian Thanksgiving is filled with traditional foods like turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving or are a seasoned pro, here’s everything you need to know about preparing for the holiday, including how to cook the perfect turkey, where to shop, and what businesses will be closed.

Thanksgiving Traditions in Canada

In Canada, Thanksgiving celebrates the harvest and blessings of the past year. It’s similar to the American holiday, but with a few key differences:

• Date: Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October (earlier than the U.S. celebration in November).
• Focus: While both holidays are about giving thanks, Canadian Thanksgiving has stronger ties to celebrating the harvest and fall season.
• Parades and Events: In cities like Kitchener-Waterloo and Toronto, Thanksgiving is marked by parades, cultural festivals, and family gatherings.

How to Prepare for Thanksgiving

Preparation is key to a successful Thanksgiving. Here are some tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. Plan the Menu: Traditional Canadian Thanksgiving dishes include:
   • Roast Turkey with stuffing
   • Mashed potatoes and gravy
   • Roasted vegetables
   • Pumpkin pie or apple pie for dessert
2. Stock Up Early: Avoid the last-minute rush by buying all your ingredients in advance. Popular grocery stores like Loblaws and Metro will be busier closer to the holiday, so plan your shopping trips accordingly.
3. Decorate the Home: Thanksgiving decorations often feature autumnal themes. Think fall leaves, pumpkins, and cozy centerpieces that capture the warmth of the season.
4. Plan for Leftovers: Make sure to have enough containers for leftovers. Thanksgiving is all about sharing, and many families look forward to enjoying turkey sandwiches the day after!

How to Cook the Perfect Turkey

Cooking the perfect turkey is often the highlight of Thanksgiving dinner. Follow these steps to ensure your turkey is golden and juicy:

1. Choose the Right Turkey Size

• Estimate about 1-1.5 pounds per person.
• Fresh turkeys are often available at grocery stores like Sobeys and No Frills. Frozen turkeys are also a popular option and should be thawed in the refrigerator (allow 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey).

2. Brining (Optional but Recommended)

• Brining your turkey helps retain moisture. You can create a simple brine using salt, sugar, and water and submerge the turkey for 12-24 hours before cooking.

3. Roasting the Turkey

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Stuff the turkey with aromatics like onions, carrots, and fresh herbs.
• Rub the skin with butter and season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and rosemary.
• Roast for approximately 15 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the turkey.

4. Resting and Carving

• Allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender.

Thanksgiving Closures: Malls and Restaurants

On Thanksgiving Day, many businesses will be closed or have reduced hours, especially in smaller towns and cities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Malls and Retail Stores

• Most major shopping malls in Canada, including CF Toronto Eaton Centre and West Edmonton Mall, will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. However, some malls may remain open with limited hours, especially in larger cities.
• Grocery stores like Costco and Walmart are typically closed on Thanksgiving Day but may operate with reduced hours on the days leading up to the holiday.

2. Restaurants

• Many family-owned restaurants and smaller eateries will be closed, but you can still find chain restaurants like Boston Pizza or Swiss Chalet offering special Thanksgiving menus.
• It’s best to call ahead if you’re planning to dine out on Thanksgiving, as hours of operation vary widely depending on the region.

What to Expect on Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day in Canada is a time for relaxation, food, and family. Here’s what you can expect:

• Quiet Streets: Since it’s a holiday, streets will be quieter, especially in smaller cities and towns.
• Community Events: Many communities host local Thanksgiving celebrations, such as food drives and community dinners for those in need.
• Family Gatherings: Thanksgiving is traditionally spent at home with family and friends, sharing a hearty meal and reflecting on the blessings of the year.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving in Canada is a special time for family, food, and reflection. With proper preparation, you can ensure that your Thanksgiving celebration is memorable and stress-free. From cooking the perfect turkey to planning around holiday closures, this guide covers everything you need to know about celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada.