thanksgiving canada 2025

Thanksgiving in Canada 2025: What You Need to Know

Thanksgiving in Canada is a time for family, friends, and reflection on the blessings of the past year. As we look ahead to Thanksgiving 2025, which falls on Monday, October 13th, it's time to start planning your celebrations. This article will provide you with everything you need to know about Thanksgiving in Canada, including what's open and closed, the holiday's history and traditions, and how it differs from its American counterpart.

Recent Updates: Planning Your Thanksgiving Weekend

As Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, news outlets across Canada are beginning to publish guides on what will be open and closed in various cities. These guides are essential for planning your long weekend, whether you're looking to do some shopping, visit a local attraction, or simply figure out which grocery stores will be open for last-minute dinner supplies.

Here's a glimpse of what's being reported:

• Halifax, Nova Scotia: CBC News has released a guide detailing what's open and closed in the Halifax area for Thanksgiving 2025. (Source: CBC)
• Winnipeg, Manitoba: CTV News and the Winnipeg Free Press have published similar guides for Winnipeg, outlining business closures and available services. (Source: CTV News, Winnipeg Free Press)

It's important to note that specific closures and operating hours may vary by location, so it's always best to check with individual businesses or services for the most up-to-date information.

The Story Behind Canadian Thanksgiving

While many associate Thanksgiving with the United States, Canada actually has its own unique history and traditions surrounding this holiday. Canadian Thanksgiving is observed on the second Monday of October, significantly earlier than the American Thanksgiving in November.

A Harvest Celebration with Deep Roots

The roots of Canadian Thanksgiving can be traced back to European traditions celebrating the harvest. Some historians suggest that the first Thanksgiving celebration in North America actually occurred in 1578, when Martin Frobisher, an English explorer, held a feast in Newfoundland to give thanks for a safe voyage.

Over time, the holiday evolved, incorporating elements of Indigenous harvest festivals and becoming a general celebration of gratitude for the year's blessings.

Thanksgiving: A Statutory Holiday (Mostly)

Thanksgiving is a federal statutory holiday in Canada, meaning that most employees are entitled to a day off with pay. However, it's important to note that Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are exceptions. In these provinces, Thanksgiving is not a statutory holiday.

How Canadian Thanksgiving Differs from the American Version

While both Canadian and American Thanksgivings share the theme of gratitude and harvest celebration, there are several key differences:

1. Timing: As mentioned earlier, Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated in October, while American Thanksgiving is in November. This difference in timing is largely due to the earlier harvest season in Canada.
2. Historical Significance: While both holidays have roots in harvest celebrations, the American Thanksgiving is also strongly associated with the Pilgrims' story and their first harvest in the New World. This historical narrative is less prominent in the Canadian Thanksgiving tradition.
3. Cultural Emphasis: Although both countries celebrate with turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, regional dishes and traditions can vary. In some parts of Canada, for example, you might find butter tarts or tourtière (a meat pie) as part of the Thanksgiving feast.
4. Shopping Frenzy: Black Friday, the massive shopping event, follows American Thanksgiving. Canada doesn't have the same tradition connected to its Thanksgiving.

Immediate Effects: Planning Your Long Weekend Activities

Thanksgiving in Canada typically marks the end of the summer season and the beginning of fall. Many families use the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, visiting pumpkin patches, or taking scenic drives to admire the fall foliage.

However, the holiday also has some practical implications:

• Retail Closures: Many retail stores, grocery stores, and government services will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.
• Reduced Public Transit: Public transit services may operate on a reduced schedule or not at all on Thanksgiving Day.
• Travel: Thanksgiving weekend is a popular time for travel, so expect increased traffic on highways and at airports.

What's Open and Closed: A City-by-City Guide (Based on Previous Years - Verify for 2025)

While official lists for 2025 are still being compiled, here's a general idea of what's typically open and closed on Thanksgiving Day in major Canadian cities, based on previous years' patterns. Always verify with specific businesses for their 2025 hours.

• Government Offices: Generally closed.
• Banks: Closed.
• Schools and Libraries: Closed.
• Post Offices: Closed.
• Grocery Stores: Many are closed or have reduced hours. Some smaller grocery stores may be open.
• Retail Stores: Many are closed, especially larger department stores. Some smaller shops in tourist areas may be open.
• Malls: Most are closed.
• Restaurants: Many are open, but it's best to call ahead for reservations.
• Movie Theatres: Generally open.
• Pharmacies: Some are open, often with reduced hours.
• Public Transit: Often operates on a holiday or Sunday schedule.
• Tourist Attractions: Some may be open, but check in advance.

Specific Examples (Based on Past Years – Confirm for 2025):

• Toronto: In past years, major attractions like the CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium have been open. Many grocery stores and malls have been closed.
• Montreal: Many grocery stores and pharmacies have remained open with reduced hours.
• Vancouver: Similar to Toronto, major attractions have often stayed open.
• Calgary: Grocery stores and malls have typically been closed, but some smaller businesses may be open.

The Rising Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner

Unfortunately, like many things, the cost of Thanksgiving dinner has been on the rise in recent years. Factors such as inflation, supply chain issues, and weather events can all impact the price of key ingredients like turkey, cranberries, and vegetables.

While specific cost projections for Thanksgiving 2025 are not yet available, it's a good idea to start planning your menu and budget early. Consider shopping around for the best deals and perhaps substituting some ingredients with more affordable alternatives.

Future Outlook: Thanksgiving in a Changing World

As we look to the future, Thanksgiving in Canada will likely continue to evolve. Factors such as changing demographics, evolving culinary preferences, and increasing awareness of food waste and sustainability may all influence how we celebrate this holiday.

One potential trend is a growing emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. As Canadians become more conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices, they may opt to source more of their Thanksgiving meal from local farmers and producers.

Another trend could be a shift towards smaller, more intimate gatherings. With busy schedules and increasing demands on our time, some families may choose to celebrate Thanksgiving with a smaller group of close friends and relatives.

Mindful Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Regardless of how you choose to celebrate Thanksgiving in Canada in 2025, remember that the heart of the holiday is gratitude. Take time to reflect on the blessings in your life, express appreciation to those around you, and give back to your community.

Here are a few mindful ways to celebrate Thanksgiving:

• Volunteer at a local food bank or soup kitchen.
• Donate to a charity that supports those in need.
• Write thank-you notes to people who have made a positive impact on your life.
• Spend quality time with loved ones, free from distractions.
• Reflect on your blessings and express gratitude for what you have.

By focusing on gratitude and giving back, you can make Thanksgiving a truly meaningful and memorable holiday.

Conclusion: Embracing the Spirit of Thanksgiving 2025

Thanksgiving in Canada is a special time to celebrate the harvest, give thanks for our blessings, and connect with loved ones. As you plan your Thanksgiving 2025 celebrations, remember to check local listings for specific information on what's open and closed in your area.

Whether you're enjoying a traditional turkey dinner, exploring the autumn foliage, or volunteering in your community, take time to embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving and express gratitude for all that you have. Happy Thanksgiving!