When the leaves start changing and classmates start talking about turkey dinners, you know Canadian Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It’s a time when people across Canada come together to enjoy good food, connect with family and friends, and reflect on what they’re thankful for.
If you’re new to the tradition or spending the holiday away from home for the first time, this guide will help you understand what Canadian Thanksgiving is all about and how you can make the celebration your own right here in London, Ontario.
What is Canadian Thanksgiving
Canadian Thanksgiving takes place on the second Monday of October each year. Traditionally, the holiday was a time to give thanks for the autumn harvest and express gratitude for the good things that had happened over the past year.
For many people today, Thanksgiving is less about the harvest and more about gathering with family and friends, sharing a big meal, and appreciating the people and things that matter most. There are no gifts or fireworks involved, just good food, good company, and a little gratitude.
How can you celebrate Thanksgiving as a student?
You don’t need elaborate plans to enjoy Thanksgiving. Here are a few simple ways to celebrate with friends and make the most of the long weekend.
Have a Thanksgiving dinner with friends
Thanksgiving is a great excuse to get a few friends together for a meal. You can cook together, split the cost of ingredients or have everyone bring something to share.
There’s no need to prepare a full turkey dinner if that feels like too much work. A mix of traditional dishes and your group’s favourite foods can be just as enjoyable.
Bring traditions from home
If your friend group includes a mix of international and Canadian students, Thanksgiving can be a fun opportunity to share traditions from different cultures.
For instance, everyone could bring a dish from their home country, introduce a game their family plays during the holidays, or share a tradition they grew up with. It’s a fun way to learn more about your friends and how they celebrate special occasions.
Get outside and enjoy autumn
The long weekend is a good excuse to take a break from studying and enjoy autumn in and around London, ON, with friends. You could go for a walk, take photos of the autumn colours, or visit a seasonal attraction together. Many of these activities are affordable and give you a chance to relax and enjoy the season.
Take part in community activities
Keep an eye out for Thanksgiving events happening on campus or around the local community. Student groups, universities, and local organizations may organize dinners, social events, or other activities over the long weekend.
Joining one can be an easy way to meet new people, try something different, and enjoy the holiday without having to plan everything yourself.
What food can you expect at a Canadian Thanksgiving dinner?
Thanksgiving dinner is usually a generous meal shared with family and friends. While every Thanksgiving table looks a little different, here are a few dishes you’ll often find:
- Roast turkey, served with gravy and savoury stuffing made with bread, onions and herbs.
- Mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables, with cranberry sauce adding a sweet, tart touch.
- Pumpkin pie for dessert, though apple crumble and butter tarts are favourites, too.
These dishes are common Thanksgiving favourites, but there’s plenty of room to add other foods to the table.
Enjoy your first Canadian Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a chance to slow down, enjoy the season, and spend time with the people around you. Whether you’re sharing a homemade meal, joining a campus event, or simply enjoying the long weekend with friends, there’s no single right way to celebrate. What matters most is creating an experience that feels meaningful to you.
If you’re still looking for student housing in London, Ontario, Foundry First offers fully furnished apartments with modern amenities, including well-equipped kitchens and communal lounges, giving you plenty of space to prepare and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with friends. Foundry First is also just steps from Fanshawe College, making it easy to join campus events and make the most of your first Canadian Thanksgiving.
Frequently asked questions
When is Canadian Thanksgiving celebrated each year?
Canadian Thanksgiving falls on the second Monday of October, with the long weekend running from Saturday to Monday. The exact date changes each year, so it’s a good idea to check your calendar in advance.
What is the purpose of Canadian Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is traditionally a time to give thanks for the autumn harvest and express gratitude for the blessings and good fortune of the past year.
What foods are served at Canadian Thanksgiving?
Common dishes include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, vegetables and pumpkin pie.
How can university students celebrate Thanksgiving?
Students can have dinner with friends, attend a community event, enjoy seasonal activities or organize a small gathering at home.
Can international students celebrate Thanksgiving differently?
Yes. Thanksgiving does not have to follow one fixed format, and you can include foods and traditions that are meaningful to you.
