Distinguishing Canadian Thanksgiving from US Thanksgiving- A Comprehensive Comparison
What is the difference between Canadian Thanksgiving and US Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday celebrated in both Canada and the United States, yet there are distinct differences in their origins, traditions, and observances. While both countries share the common practice of giving thanks for the harvest and expressing gratitude, the specifics of their respective Thanksgivings vary in interesting ways.
Origins and History
The Canadian Thanksgiving dates back to the early 17th century when the French explorer Samuel de Champlain held a harvest celebration with the Indigenous peoples of the region. However, it wasn’t until 1879 that it was officially recognized as a national holiday. In contrast, the US Thanksgiving has its roots in the early 17th century as well, with the Pilgrims celebrating their first successful harvest in 1621. It became an annual holiday in 1863, declared by President Abraham Lincoln.
Observance and Date
Canadian Thanksgiving is observed on the second Monday of October, making it the shortest Thanksgiving in the world. This date was chosen to give Canadians a long weekend, as it is typically followed by the Thanksgiving weekend. On the other hand, US Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, providing a three-day weekend for many Americans.
Food and Menu
Both Canadian and US Thanksgivings feature a variety of traditional dishes, but there are some differences in the menu. In Canada, the turkey is the centerpiece of the meal, much like in the US. However, Canadians often include dishes like butter tarts, maple syrup, and Canadian bacon. In the US, the menu typically includes dishes like mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. While both countries share a love for sweet potatoes, the Canadian version is often made with maple syrup, while the American version is sweetened with brown sugar.
Traditions and Activities
While both countries engage in similar activities such as watching parades and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in the US, there are some unique Canadian traditions. For instance, in Canada, it is common to have a family gathering known as “Thanksgiving dinner” or “Turkey Day,” where family and friends come together to share a meal and express gratitude. In the US, the day is often filled with football games, watching the parade, and participating in various activities with family and friends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Canadian Thanksgiving and US Thanksgiving share common themes of gratitude and celebrating the harvest, there are notable differences in their origins, observance, food, and traditions. Both holidays offer a chance for Canadians and Americans to come together with family and friends to express appreciation for the abundance in their lives.