The holiday season in Canada is a time of joy, togetherness, and festive celebrations. One of the ways in which Canadians come together during this season is through unique drinking traditions that vary from Coast to Coast. From the cozy and heartwarming customs of Quebec to the lively Western celebrations, these traditions showcase Canada’s rich cultural diversity.
- Quebec’s Festive Réveillon:
In Quebec, the Réveillon is a traditional feast held on Christmas Eve, and it’s all about indulgence. Family and friends gather to enjoy a lavish meal, which includes tourtière (meat pie), pea soup, and a variety of traditional French-Canadian dishes. This festive occasion is often accompanied by a glass of Caribou, a potent mix of fortified wine, Canadian whisky and maple syrup.
- Atlantic Canada’s Rum-Soaked Fruitcake:
In the Maritimes, especially in Newfoundland and Labrador, fruitcake is a holiday staple. These cakes are soaked in rum or other spirits, making them a delightful treat for those who enjoy a little extra holiday cheer.
- Eastern Ontario’s Ice Wine Delight:
In the eastern part of Ontario, particularly in the Niagara region, ice wine is a delicacy during the holidays. Made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, this sweet wine is perfect for sipping after a festive meal.
- Prairie Provinces’ Caesar Brunch:
In the Prairie provinces, the Caesar cocktail is a brunch favorite. Made with vodka, Clamato juice, and a variety of garnishes, it’s the perfect way to kick off a holiday gathering.
- Hamilton’s Craft Beer:
While Hamilton, Ontario, may not have a widely known distinct holiday drinking tradition, the city has a vibrant and growing craft beer scene. During the holidays, locals and visitors alike
venture through the city’s craft breweries, enjoying seasonal and festive brews. The camaraderie and warmth of these establishments, combined with the diverse flavors of craft beers, create a festive atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the holidays in Hamilton. So, whether you’re sipping on a spiced winter ale or a crisp holiday lager, Hamiltonians delightfully celebrate the season with friends and family and a pint.
- Indigenous Traditions in the North:
Indigenous communities across Canada have their unique drinking traditions that are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Many First Nations celebrate the season with traditional beverages like cedar tea, spruce tip syrup, or homemade berry wines.
- Yukon’s Midnight Toast:
In Yukon, celebrating the New Year with a midnight toast under the Northern Lights is a cherished tradition. Locals often gather outdoors to welcome the first moments of the year with a hearty cheer.
- Western Canada’s Mulled Wine:
In Western Canada, mulled wine is a popular holiday beverage. Spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, it’s perfect for keeping warm on a chilly winter night.
- Nunavut’s Akutaq Traditions:
In the northern territory of Nunavut, locals enjoy a dessert called Akutaq, once a staple for sustenance of our Northern Indigenous peoples, this unique mixture often contains caribou or seal fat, fresh snow, sugar and berries sometimes soaked in alcohol. It’s a sweet and festive treat that adds a touch of celebration to the holidays.
As we raise our glasses to toast to the holiday season, it’s evident that Canada’s Christmas drinking traditions are as diverse as the country itself. From the warmth of a classic glass of mulled wine to the boldness of a Caesar, each drink carries with it a story, a memory, and a touch of Canadian hospitality. So, whether you find yourself gathered around a cozy fireplace in a cabin in the Rockies or celebrating with loved ones in Toronto, may your glasses be full, your spirits be high, and the joy of the season fill your hearts. Here’s to embracing the unique and festive traditions that make Canadian Christmases truly special. Cheers to a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
