5 canadian traditions that will surprise you

If you think of Canadian traditions, you probably think of the big classics like the sugar shack.

Here are five Canadian traditions that will surprise you a bit more to integrate into your next Canada itinerary! 
 

#1. The "Polar Bear Plunge"

Ah, the famous "Polar Bear Plunge"! If you've ever dreamed of jumping into icy water in the middle of winter, welcome to our home, where this icy Canadian tradition attracts the bravest each year... or the craziest, depending on your point of view.

Whether to mark the New Year or to raise funds for charitable causes, plunging into water just above freezing is not reserved for polar bears. In addition to the pride that comes from surviving this ordeal (because yes, you will survive), it is said that this thermal shock wakes you up better than coffee.

So, why not add this adventure to your list of challenges to tackle? Because let's be honest, the adrenaline of the Canadian cold is an experience you won't soon forget... and you'll probably need a hot chocolate to recover from it!
 

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#2. Groundhog Day

Every year, on February 2, thousands of Canadians turn to an adorable ball of fur to know if winter will linger or not. If you thought entrusting your weather hopes to a groundhog was a crazy idea, think again. Here, it's almost a state matter!

The stars of the day? Wiarton Willie in Ontario, the late Fred in Quebec, Shubenacadie Sam in Nova Scotia, and Balzac Billy in Alberta. These are the most famous groundhogs in the country, under the watchful eye of the nation, coming out of their burrow. If they see their shadows, prepare for six more weeks of winter. Otherwise, spring will be here soon!

In truth, whether they are right or wrong (spoiler: they often are), it's mainly a good pretext to come out of hibernation, gather and celebrate the Canadian winter with a good dose of humor and traditions. After all, why not entrust the future to a groundhog, right?

#3. Corn Roasts

If you have never had the pleasure of attending one of these traditional festivals, you are missing out on a must of the Quebec summer. Imagine a beautiful sunny day in August, friends and family gathered in a garden or yard, mountains of freshly harvested corn cobs (or "blé d'inde", as they say here) that need to be shucked (hence the name), and of course, large pots ready to boil them. All accompanied by butter dripping on your fingers, plenty of salt, and laughter.

This is not the type of activity that can be booked through your Canada travel agency, but if you meet some locals and get invited, do yourself a favour and go!

It is a simple yet convivial Canadian tradition, where the star of the show is the corn, but the relaxed ambiance and lively discussions create all the charm. Because in the end, what could be better than a hot corn cob to enjoy the last rays of summer before the arrival of autumn? Not much, if you ask me... except maybe a bit more butter!

#4. Ice Canoe Races

Ice canoe races are the kind of Canadian tradition that makes you wonder: why stop paddling when the water freezes? Instead of seeing winter as an excuse to stay warm, teams of daredevils jump into their canoes and brave the icy waters of the Saint Lawrence River.

Half on water, half on ice, these competitors paddle, pull, and push their boats through a course where, let's be honest, you never know if the next paddle stroke will propel you or if you'll end up on all fours on the ice. This unique sport, practiced notably during Quebec's Carnival, is a real spectacle of bravery and winter madness.

So, if the idea of seeing people paddle in the middle of winter intrigues you, or if you just want to feel the warmth of hot chocolate as a spectator, it's a frosty tradition not to be missed!

#5. Pow-Wows

Pow-Wows are much more than festive gatherings; they are a dive into the heart of Canada's indigenous traditions. Imagine vibrant dance circles, drumbeats resonating in the air, and brightly colored costumes twirling to the rhythm of ancestral songs.

These events, which take place mainly in the summer across the country, are a true tribute to the culture, history, and spirituality of the First Nations. But beware, a Pow-Wow is not just a spectacle for the curious. It is a sacred moment, a place of sharing where indigenous pride is celebrated, where people reconnect with ancient rituals, and where, if you are lucky, you might even taste freshly prepared bannock.

In short, a Pow-Wow is an opportunity to discover an essential facet of Canada, while being carried away by the contagious energy of these ceremonies full of life and history. Therefore, it is essential to arrive with immense respect and a thirst to learn more about these Nations that are at the heart of our great country!

So, which of these traditions do you want to test during your trip to Canada? Let us know in the comments section below!