Where to Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving

Arctic Kingdom - Nunavut

Contrary to popular belief, not all Canadians live in igloos … but some do. With a population of just over 30,000 (84% of whom are Inuit), Canada’s largest territory is accessible only by air or water. The geography and vast natural space make it a unique place to spend Thanksgiving. Arctic Kingdom, an arctic expedition company, offers a “Break the Ice” getaway. Participants leave from Iqaluit, the capital city, and can experience the beauty of art and culture from local artisans. Dog sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and, yes, even igloo building are some of the activities available.

Fogo Island Inn - Newfoundland

The annual Fogo Island Partridgeberry Harvest Festival, features local foods and crafts. For those with luxurious tastes in both accommodations and food, the Fogo Island Inn is hosting a special Thanksgiving event called “Chefs Come to the Edge.” Executive chef Murray McDonald has invited 4 world-class chefs to join him, and guests will be able to see, pick, dig and sample local delicacies. All foods prepared and served will be from Newfoundland’s northeastern coast. The 3-night weekend event includes a traditional Fogo Island boil-up, a 5-course gourmet supper prepared by the 5 chefs, a foraging outing and an afternoon at the festival.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler - Whistler, British Columbia

Located about a 2-hour drive from Vancouver, Whistler is making a name for itself for its celebration of Thanksgiving. Just as the snow is starting to fall on the highest peaks, it’s time for the Turkey Sale, a long-anticipated event for skiers and snowboarders looking to pick up equipment at great prices. The spas and restaurants are open, and there are special events for the whole family. The prestigious Fairmont Chateau Whistler fills the long weekend with treasure hunts for the kids, pumpkin carving, turkey dinners, a “Turkey Trot” (jog or walk) and even a zucchini-car race. The whole family can participate in the “Life of Pie” demonstration and learn how to make holiday pies with the hotel’s chefs.

Woodside National Historic Site - Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario

Canada’s only televised Thanksgiving Day parade takes place in Kitchener-Waterloo during their famed and fabulous Oktoberfest. Since 1969, this community has celebrated its very strong German roots, and its Oktoberfest is recognized as one of the world’s greatest outside of Germany. Beer and sauerkraut will take over the city. Parks Canada goes further back in history as the Woodside National Historic Site presents a traditional Thanksgiving in the Victorian era. The house at Woodside — which was the childhood residence of William Lyon Mackenzie King, the longest-serving Canadian prime minister — is beautifully decorated in a harvest theme from 1891. Crafts and special activities will be offered, and the grounds are perfect for a brisk fall walk or outdoor picnic.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Jasper, Alberta

What better place to spend Canadian Thanksgiving than nestled in the magnificent Canadian Rockies? Jasper National Park is the largest park in the mountain range, covering 4,200 square miles. The varied landscape includes mountains, glaciers, forests, rivers and valleys. With more than 600 miles of hiking trails, it’s the perfect place to work up a hearty appetite before bunking down in cozy quarters. Families love to stay at the Fairmont Cabins year-round, but during Thanksgiving weekend, they can take part in pumpkin carving, family crafts, a scavenger hunt, wagon rides, family movies and, for the “big kids,” a wine tasting. Plenty to be thankful for.