Every year in October, many families in Canada gather to celebrate Thanksgiving. For temporary foreign workers (TFWs) living in Quebec, this holiday is an opportunity to learn about an important Canadian cultural tradition, discover how it is celebrated, and share moments with the people around them.
The origins of this celebration are linked to harvests and expressions of gratitude for the food and blessings received throughout the year.
Throughout history, different communities have celebrated the harvest with gatherings and special meals. In Canada, one of the first recorded European thanksgiving ceremonies took place in 1578, during the expedition of English explorer Martin Frobisher, who organized a ceremony to give thanks for the safe arrival of his voyage.
Over time, the celebration took on different meanings and also became associated with gratitude for the harvest and well-being. It is important to recognize that Indigenous peoples in Canada have their own traditions of giving thanks and celebrating the harvest, which predate the arrival of Europeans.
Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It is an occasion to express gratitude, gather with family and friends, and enjoy a special meal. Many families prepare turkey, potatoes, vegetables, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, although each household can adapt the menu to suit its tastes and customs. In Quebec, this holiday is known as l’Action de grâce. Some people take advantage of the long weekend to rest, visit loved ones, or enjoy outdoor activities before winter arrives.
For temporary foreign workers, celebrating this holiday does not necessarily mean following all local traditions. You can share a meal with friends, chat with your coworkers, or prepare a traditional dish from your home country to introduce others to your customs. These small activities can help build connections and make you feel more supported, especially when you are far from your family.
At InfoTET, part of Immigrant Québec, we invite you to take this opportunity to discover the local culture, share your traditions, and strengthen your ties with your community. Learning about the celebrations of the place where we live is also a way to connect with others and create new experiences without forgetting our roots.
