Exploring the Distinctive Differences Between Canadian and American Thanksgiving Celebrations
Why Canadian and American Thanksgiving is Different
Thanksgiving, a holiday celebrated by both Canada and the United States, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. However, despite the shared name and general purpose, there are several key differences that set Canadian and American Thanksgiving apart. This article aims to explore the reasons behind these disparities, highlighting the unique aspects of each country’s Thanksgiving celebration.
Firstly, the historical origins of Canadian and American Thanksgiving differ significantly. In Canada, Thanksgiving was initially celebrated in 1578 by French explorer Martin Frobisher, who sought to give thanks for surviving his long journey across the Atlantic Ocean. On the other hand, American Thanksgiving has its roots in the 1621 feast shared between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans, marking the harvest and a successful first year in the New World. This historical difference in origin has influenced the way each country celebrates the holiday.
Secondly, the date on which Canadian and American Thanksgiving is celebrated varies. In Canada, Thanksgiving is held on the second Monday of October, a date that has been fixed since 1957. This early celebration is primarily to honor the harvest season and is not directly related to any specific historical event. Conversely, American Thanksgiving is observed on the fourth Thursday of November, a date that has been set since 1863. This later date is believed to have been chosen to allow families to gather before the winter months.
Another significant difference lies in the traditions and customs associated with the holiday. Canadian Thanksgiving is more focused on family gatherings, harvest, and gratitude. It is common for Canadians to enjoy a large feast featuring dishes such as roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy, similar to the American version. However, Canadian Thanksgiving also includes the tradition of parades, particularly in Toronto, where a large parade with floats, marching bands, and various entertainment takes place.
In the United States, Thanksgiving is a time for expressing gratitude and sharing a feast with loved ones. The traditional Thanksgiving meal typically includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. American Thanksgiving is also marked by various activities, such as watching the Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City and the National Football League (NFL) games, which are considered an integral part of the holiday experience.
Furthermore, the level of commercialization and the focus on consumerism differ between the two countries. In the United States, Thanksgiving is closely linked to the Christmas shopping season, and the holiday is often seen as a prelude to the holiday shopping frenzy known as Black Friday. This commercial aspect is less prominent in Canada, where the focus remains on family and gratitude.
In conclusion, while Canadian and American Thanksgiving share the same name and a general purpose of expressing gratitude and celebrating the harvest, the historical origins, dates, traditions, and commercial aspects of the holiday differ significantly. These differences reflect the unique cultural identities of each country and contribute to the rich tapestry of their respective Thanksgiving celebrations.
