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Witness the Magical Aurora Borealis in Canada

Get to Know Canadian Poutine

January 26, 2024

Did you know? In 2015, #BellLetsTalk became the top trending topic on Twitter, and in 2018, it was the most used Canadian hashtag on the platform. This widespread social media engagement not only reflects the campaign's success in raising awareness but also highlights the significant impact it has had in fostering conversations around mental health in Canada. Watch

LIVING
Bell Let’s Talk and Other Mental Health Resources in Canada

Bell Let's Talk is a campaign created by the Canadian telecommunications company, Bell Canada, in an effort to raise awareness and combat stigma surrounding mental illness in Canada. It is the largest corporate commitment to mental health in Canada.

On January 24th, Bell Let's Talk Day was the main event and each year the campaign encourages people to use hashtags like #BellLetsTalk on social media. For every hashtag, Bell Canada donates money based on these interactions. Since 2010, they have given over $121 million to mental health, with 1.3 billion interactions on social media. 

Mental health is gaining recognition as a crucial aspect of the Canadian lifestyle. It's not just about Bell Let's Talk; there are various other helpful mental health initiatives available in Canada. Take a moment to explore these resources:

Canada Connects: Bringing newcomers and Canadians together. This initiative helps newcomers settle by matching them with Canadian citizens or longtime community members. 

Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French that has been around since 1989.

Need assistance in connecting with a community support group? The YMCA Newcomer Information Centre will reach out to other settlement organizations in your vicinity. 

Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is a national charity that helps maintain and improve mental health for all Canadians. CMHA provides a wide range of innovative services and supports tailored to and in partnership with our communities. 

Les Impatients is an organization in Quebec that helps people with mental health issues through artistic expression. They offer creative workshops that encourage community engagement by sharing the works produced by the participants.

The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) is Canada's largest mental health teaching hospital and one of the world's leading research centres in its field. CAMH knows that as newcomers, asking for help when things are not right can be difficult and has provided an online factsheet in many different languages.

If you or someone you know are feeling like you have lost hope and are struggling to cope, 9-8-8 is here for you. When you reach out, a trained responder will listen without judgment, provide support and understanding, and can tell you about resources that will help. (CTV - Watch)

Mental health and well-being support for newcomers remains an important focus to help ensure a softer landing when arriving in Canada. For more information, check out how the Canadian government is there to help. Watch

CANADA EH?
Things to do around you:

Embrace the winter vibes at Igloofest in downtown Montreal every weekend until February 10th! Bundle up and join the festivities at this yearly outdoor music festival. Stay cozy while experiencing the beats and energy of the city's cold-weather celebration. Get tickets.

The Mean Girls Broadway tour has made its way to Vancouver. Come see the classic comedy on stage on January 28th. So fetch! Get tickets.

Elton John is one of the all-time great rock legends, with hit after hit all across the world. And now the story of the Rocket Man is getting the Jubilations Dinner Theatre twist in Edmonton! This weekend is your last chance to enjoy this unique dinner experience. Get tickets.

Skating weather is finally here, and The Bentway in downtown Toronto welcomes back neighbours and fun-seekers for one of winter’s best activities, outdoor ice skating under the Gardiner! Get the full details here.

Reach speeds of 70 km/hour this winter on one of Quebec City's oldest attractions. Enjoy rides on a toboggan down in the heart of Old Quebec at Dufferin Terrace. Sip on included hot chocolate after your ride. Until March 15th. Get tickets.

Calling all wine lovers! The Winnipeg Wine Festival is the second largest tasting festival of its kind in Canada and it Public Tasting is happening this weekend from January 26th to 28th. Get tickets.

TRAVEL
Where to Witness Aurora Borealis in Canada 

Wondering where to witness the northern lights in Canada? Destination Canada has chosen locations that are easily accessible for most travelers and are renowned for their consistent northern lights appearances. Here are the top places to witness this breathtaking phenomenon.

Captivating Northern Lights in Churchill, Manitoba:

Churchill is renowned as the best place in Canada to witness the northern lights. The winter months of January, February, and March offer the optimal viewing experience, though the northern lights can be seen throughout most of the year. Churchill's extended nights and colder conditions enhance the brightness and duration of the auroras. Unique opportunities, like a special diner car in a tundra buggy, add to the enchantment.

Yukon's Northern Lights Spectacle:

Yukon has several destinations with a high chance of witnessing the northern lights. Part of the region lies beneath the auroral oval, offering prime viewing between November and March. The Yukon experiences the midnight sun during summer, obstructing northern lights' visibility. Escape city lights to areas of total darkness and gaze skywards for a chance to witness the lights.

Unforgettable Magic in Canada's Northwest Territories:

Canada's Northwest Territories, with its capital Yellowknife approximately 400 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, is a prime destination for the unforgettable magic of the northern lights. Yellowknife experiences high geomagnetic activity, creating colorful displays. During winter, the city's remoteness and minimal light pollution provide an ideal setting for aurora viewing.

Canadian Insider Tips for an Optimal Experience:

  • Consider a guided tour where experts take care of all the details. 

  • Be prepared to stay up late, as the best time to see the lights is around midnight.

  • Heading to a remote location is advisable to avoid light pollution, and the best tours often have special setups with fire pits and cozy shelters.

  • Dress warmly in layers, especially during the cold winter nights in Canada.

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Explore Canadian Chef Ricardo’s Delicious Poutine Recipes

Canadian poutine, a beloved comfort food, combines crispy french fries with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. Originating from Quebec, this iconic dish has gained nationwide popularity. The contrasting textures and flavors create a satisfying experience, making it a quintessential Canadian indulgence enjoyed nationwide.

Quebecois chef, Ricardo, has a list of delicious poutine recipes. Here are some of our favourites: 

Poutine with Homemade Gravy 
This classic poutine recipe shows that less is sometimes more. Only a few basic ingredients and Ricardo's homemade gravy for a mouthwatering experience. Easy peasy, and oh-so-tasty – because in the world of poutine, simple is where the fun begins!

Lobster Poutine
Do you love seafood? Spruce up your usual poutine by tossing in some lobster. Elevate your regular poutine into a fancy feast. How fancy!

Smoked Meat Poutine
A Montreal specialty – featuring succulent smoked meat, green peas, and homemade gravy. It's a satisfying blend of flavors that elevates your poutine experience. 

Dessert Poutine
Are you. a sweet tooth? Enjoy this fun twist on poutine turned into dessert. Using homemade churros and caramel and topped with mini marshmallows - this recipe will satisfy that sweet craving!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Canadian Spots You’ve Seen On TV

Buzzfeed lists 11 Locations In Canada Served As The Sets For Different Shows And Films and I think you might be surprised to find some of your favourites on this list. From Schitts Creek to Twilight, check out what other movies or TV were filmed in the Great North.

OUR PICKS & FAVS
Embrace the season!