Thanksgiving (Canada) 2025

Canadian Thanksgiving celebrates the harvest and blessings of the past year, observed on the second Monday in October when autumn colors peak and harvest season concludes across most of Canada. Unlike its American counterpart, Canadian Thanksgiving has diverse historical roots, including early harvest celebrations by European settlers, indigenous harvest traditions, and formal thanksgiving proclamations dating to the 1600s. The holiday was officially established in 1879 and moved to its current October timing in 1957 to avoid conflicts with Remembrance Day and create better weather for celebration. From an agricultural perspective, the October timing aligns perfectly with Canadian harvest seasons, as most crops are gathered before winter's arrival. The earlier date compared to American Thanksgiving reflects Canada's more northern latitude and shorter growing season. The second Monday format ensures a three-day weekend for family gatherings while maintaining connection to traditional harvest timing. This distinctly Canadian celebration emphasizes gratitude, family unity, and connection to the land during autumn's spectacular display.