Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. In 2026, that falls on October 12.
Why is Canadian Thanksgiving in October?
The holiday is closely associated with the fall harvest, which arrives earlier in much of Canada than in the United States. Canada’s modern Thanksgiving tradition developed over time from European harvest customs, religious observances and civic celebrations.
Did Canadian Thanksgiving come before American Thanksgiving?
You will often see the 1578 Martin Frobisher expedition described as Canada’s “first Thanksgiving.” That is a useful historical reference, but it is misleading to treat today’s Canadian and American holidays as a simple race to see which came first. The modern celebrations evolved separately over centuries.
When did it become a national holiday?
Thanksgiving was observed nationally in Canada in the 19th century, but the date changed more than once. Since 1957, the federal observance has been fixed on the second Monday in October.
What do Canadians eat?
Turkey, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie are common, but traditions vary widely by family and region. In Quebec, a Thanksgiving meal may also include local dishes such as tourtière.
Is it as big as U.S. Thanksgiving?
Generally, no. Canadian Thanksgiving is a public holiday and family weekend, but it does not dominate the national calendar in quite the same way as Thanksgiving does in the United States.