From Harvest Celebrations to National Tradition- Exploring the Evolution of Thanksgiving in Canada
When did Thanksgiving become a holiday in Canada? This question often piques the interest of many, as Thanksgiving in Canada holds a unique place in the country’s history and culture. Unlike its American counterpart, which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, Canadian Thanksgiving is observed on the second Monday of October. The origins of this holiday date back to the early 17th century, but it wasn’t until 1879 that it was officially recognized as a national holiday.
The roots of Canadian Thanksgiving can be traced back to the early settlers who arrived in what is now Canada. In 1578, French explorer Jacques Cartier landed in what is now Quebec and held a ceremony to give thanks for their safe arrival. This marked the beginning of a tradition of giving thanks for the harvest and for the blessings of the year. Over the years, various communities in Canada continued to celebrate this tradition, each with their own unique customs and practices.
The first recorded Thanksgiving celebration in what is now Canada took place in 1606, when the explorer Martin Frobisher held a ceremony to give thanks for his safe return from a voyage to find the Northwest Passage. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the holiday began to gain widespread recognition.
In 1879, the government of Canada officially recognized Thanksgiving as a national holiday. The first Thanksgiving Day was celebrated on November 6, 1879, with Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald issuing a proclamation to mark the occasion. Since then, Canadian Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the second Monday of October, except for the years 1918 and 1945, when it was moved to the second Monday of November to coincide with Armistice Day, now known as Remembrance Day.
The celebration of Canadian Thanksgiving is marked by various customs and practices. Families and friends gather to share a meal, often including traditional dishes such as roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. The holiday is also a time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and to express gratitude for the abundance in life.
In conclusion, Canadian Thanksgiving has a rich history that dates back to the early settlers. It wasn’t until 1879 that it was officially recognized as a national holiday, but its roots can be traced back to the 17th century. Today, Canadian Thanksgiving remains a cherished tradition, bringing families and communities together to give thanks and share in the abundance of life.
