Thanksgiving 2019 Canada Greetings

Okay, let’s be real for a second. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already Googled “Thanksgiving 2019 Canada” because you forgot it was early this year. No judgment. I literally checked my calendar three times this morning.

Here’s the thing about Canadian Thanksgiving: it sneaks up on you like a moose in a snowstorm. One minute you’re enjoying the last gasp of summer, and the next, you’re panic-buying canned pumpkin at 7 PM on Sunday. But hey, that’s part of the charm.

Why We’re Different (And Proud of It)

First things first—our Thanksgiving isn’t a dress rehearsal for the American one. We do it in October, people. Why? Because we’re Canadian, and we like our harvest festivals before the ground turns into a frozen tundra. Makes sense, right?

Also, we don’t do the whole “Black Friday” craziness afterwards. Instead, we just eat, nap, and argue about who gets the drumstick. It’s a much lower-stakes holiday, and I’m here for it.

So, for Thanksgiving 2019, let’s raise a glass of apple cider (or a double-double, no shame) to our unique little celebration. It’s not about the pilgrims or the Mayflower. It’s about surviving another winter—almost.

The Real Greetings (Because “Happy Thanksgiving” is Basic)

Now, let’s talk about the greetings. You can’t just send a text that says “Happy Thanksgiving” and call it a day. That’s like serving instant gravy at a family dinner. It works, but it’s forgettable.

Instead, try this on for size: “Happy Turkey Day, you beautiful maple leaf!” Or my personal favorite: “May your plate be heaping, and your family drama be minimal.” Because let’s face it, drama is coming. Uncle Bob will mention politics. It’s inevitable.

For your group chat, go with something like: “Greetings, fellow Canucks! May your stuffing be moist and your pie not burnt.” See? Playful, specific, and it shows you actually thought about it.

The Food (A Love Letter)

Let’s be honest—the real greeting is the food. If you walk into a Canadian Thanksgiving dinner, you’re not saying “hello.” You’re saying, “Oh my god, is that real butter in the mashed potatoes?” And it better be. None of that margarine nonsense.

Turkey? Sure, it’s classic. But the real heroes are the sides. The sweet potato casserole with marshmallows that looks like a crime scene. The Brussels sprouts that nobody wants but everyone takes a polite spoonful of. And don’t even get me started on the gravy boat—that’s the holy grail of the table.

And yes, we put poutine on some tables. No, it’s not traditional. But if you’re in Quebec, you might just see it. Don’t judge. It’s the Canadian way to fuse everything with cheese curds.

What to Actually Say (A Cheat Sheet)

For your grandma, say something heartfelt: “Thanks for teaching me how to make your famous stuffing, even if mine never tastes the same.” She’ll cry. You’ll cry. It’s a beautiful mess.

For your cousin who just got back from backpacking in Europe, say: “So, is the Wi-Fi better in Croatia?” That’s not a Thanksgiving greeting, but it’s a conversation starter. And conversation is the real feast, right? Or is that just the tryptophan talking?

For your boss, just send a quick email: “Enjoying the long weekend, hope you’re eating well!” Short, sweet, and you don’t have to actually share your stuffing recipe with them. They’ll never know you spent Sunday in your PJs watching football reruns.

Gratitude, Eh?

Deep down, the greeting isn’t about words. It’s about the feeling. It’s about looking at the table and seeing the people who annoy you, but also the people who’d drive through a blizzard to pick you up from the airport. That’s the real “thanks.”

So, for Thanksgiving 2019, let’s keep it simple. Say “I’m glad you’re here” instead of “Happy Thanksgiving.” It takes three seconds, and it hits harder than a hockey check. I promise.

And if you forget to say anything at all because you’re too busy shoveling turkey in your face? Don’t worry. We’ve all been there. Just grunt and point at the cranberry sauce. That’s a greeting too. In fact, that’s the most Canadian greeting of all.

So go on. Hug someone. Pass the butter. And remember—the pie is for everyone, but the corner pieces are for the brave. You’re welcome.