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Celebrate the holidays in Canadian style
Seasonal experiences on our radar this week
Did you know? In Canada, Boxing Day (December 26) is a statutory holiday in many provinces, and it’s often spent shopping post-holiday sales, relaxing, or enjoying leftovers. The tradition dates back to the Feast of St. Stephen and alms-giving, with its name possibly coming from opening church poor boxes. (The Canadian Encyclopedia)
LIVING
Celebrate the holidays in Canadian style
There's nothing quite like the Christmas season in Canada.
Snow-dusted streets, twinkling lights, festive markets, and steaming cups of hot cocoa. For Canadians, this time of year is about gathering with loved ones, enjoying hearty meals, and embracing the warmth of community. As a newcomer, you might be discovering these unique traditions for the first time.
Here's your guide to celebrating the holiday season in true Canadian style.
📅 First – mark your calendars!
December 25: Christmas Day (Statutory holiday across Canada)
December 26: Boxing Day (Statutory in some provinces, widely recognized elsewhere)
January 1: New Year’s Day (Statutory holiday across Canada)
Many employers offer extra days off between Christmas and New Year’s. Check your holiday schedule early to make the most of this festive downtime!
🎄 Celebrate Christmas Eve with family and friends
Christmas Eve, December 24, is often spent gathering with family. While some attend midnight Mass to observe the religious meaning of Christmas, most Canadians enjoy a festive dinner, exchange gifts, and spend time with loved ones before Christmas Day.
🎁 Enjoy Christmas Day with gifts, food, and family time
On Christmas Day, December 25, many Canadians open presents in the morning, followed by a big family breakfast. A hearty dinner, including turkey, ham, or roast beef with seasonal sides, is common.
⛸️ Celebrate Boxing Day with family-friendly outdoor fun
Boxing Day, December 26, is a public holiday in many provinces. While some take advantage of post-Christmas sales, many enjoy outdoor activities like skating or tobogganing, or spend the day relaxing with family and friends.
🌎 Embrace Canada's multiculturalism
Canada’s holiday season is diverse. While Christmas is widely celebrated, other holidays like Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are also observed.
CANADA EH?
Things to Do Around You
Enjoy a magical holiday season in Toronto with Cirque du Soleil's 'Twas the Night Before…. Inspired by the classic poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," this Christmas-themed show features breathtaking acrobatics and a heartwarming story perfect for the whole family. Catch the performance at Meridian Hall from December 12 to January 3.
Bask in a festive winter wonderland at Vancouver’s PNE Winter Fair! Meet Santa and see the Winter Lights. Don't miss the new rides, Nutcracker on Ice, and more! December 6 to 23
Experience Upper Canada Village’s Alight at Night, just 1.5 hours from Ottawa. Wander through over a million lights, enjoy festive shows, and take a ride on a colourful toy train. November 29 to January 4
Enjoy festive fun in Calgary at the Library’s Winter Wonderland! Features family-friendly activities, movie screenings, sing-alongs, and special guests. Join the celebrations at Memorial Park and Central Libraries from December 7 to 22.
Delight in a festive and fun-filled morning in Calgary with Beauty and the Grinch at Jubilations Junior! This lively show is packed with laughter, music, and holiday cheer, perfect for the whole family. Join Beauty, her mayoral mom, and the Grinch, who’s determined to spoil Christmas, from November 9, 2024, to January 11, 2025. ❄️
TRAVEL
Seasonal experiences on our radar this week ❄️
You don’t need to wait for summer to explore the beauty of Canada. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or looking for a cozy retreat, there’s something for everyone this winter.
Relax and unwind in Ontario’s winter wonderland 🌲
Ste. Anne’s Spa – A luxurious all-inclusive spa resort in Grafton, Ontario, offering rejuvenating treatments in a peaceful, countryside setting.
Glen Oro Farm – Experience the beauty of winter with dome glamping in Oro-Medonte. Enjoy a cozy escape with panoramic views of nature.
Enjoy winter festivities on the streets of Montreal 🏙️
For those who prefer the buzz of city life, Montreal offers a cozy, festive vibe.
Terrasse Belvu – A winter terrace perfect for sipping warm drinks while enjoying stunning views. Located at 1010 rue de La Gauchetière O.
Tavern Noël – A charming Christmas-themed bar and café where you can sip festive drinks and get into the holiday spirit.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Savour seasonal flavours at Toronto’s Distillery District Winter Village
Mill Street Brewpub in Toronto’s Distillery District has transformed into a cozy Winter Village, offering a limited-time menu perfect for the holiday season. 🎄❄️
Warm up with seasonal drinks like decadent hot chocolate, mulled cider, or a classic Mill Street brew, all served at the festive Sipping Snowman.
The food menu features comforting dishes such as a chicken parmesan sandwich, eggplant sandwich, tater tots, crispy fried pickles, and mozzarella sticks.
Then, finish your meal with a giant cinnamon roll for dessert. (via Curiosity)
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