Think Canada’s all about maple syrup and polite conversation? Well, get ready for some surprises! It turns out our friendly neighbors to the north aren’t just about hockey and saying “sorry” all the time. I
n this article, I share you the 11 odd Canadian superstitions that might surprise you. These aren’t your usual “black cat crossing your path” kind of things.
Lucky Loonie
Canadians believe hiding a one-dollar coin (called a loonie) under the ice brings good luck in hockey. This started at the 2002 Olympics when a loonie was secretly placed under the ice. Canada won gold, and now it’s a tradition. Many Canadians carry a lucky loonie for good fortune.
Bannock Burning
Some First Nations people in Canada burn a piece of bannock bread before eating. They believe this offering feeds the spirits of their ancestors. It’s thought to bring good luck and protection. This tradition is still practiced in many communities today.
House-Cooling Party
Unlike most places that have house-warming parties, some Canadians throw house-cooling parties. They believe hosting a party before moving out will ward off bad spirits. It’s also a chance to say goodbye to the house and neighbors. This quirky tradition is more common in rural areas.
Wedding Day Rain
Many Canadians believe rain on your wedding day is good luck. They say it means the marriage will last, as a wet knot is harder to untie. Some brides even hope for rain on their big day. It’s a nice way to feel better if the weather doesn’t cooperate!
Touching Wood
Like in many countries, Canadians touch or knock on wood for luck. But in some parts of Canada, people specifically touch the bark of a maple tree. They believe maple trees have special protective powers. It’s a uniquely Canadian twist on a common superstition.
First Footing
In some Canadian households, the first person to enter the home on New Year’s Day is very important. They believe this person sets the tone for the whole year. Ideally, it should be a tall, dark-haired man carrying coal, money, and bread. It’s a tradition brought by Scottish immigrants.
Lucky Puck
Hockey players often have a “lucky” puck they use in warm-ups. They believe this puck brings good fortune in the game. Some players have specific rituals with their lucky puck. It’s taken very seriously in a country where hockey is almost a religion.
Related: 18 Fun Facts About Canada That Sound Made Up
Tim Hortons Roll Up The Rim
Many Canadians believe certain rituals help them win the Tim Hortons Roll Up The Rim contest. Some blow into the cup before rolling, others use a specific finger. There are even people who think certain locations have more winning cups. It’s turned coffee drinking into a superstitious event!
Don’t Sing at the Table
In some Canadian families, it’s considered bad luck to sing at the dinner table. They say it will bring poverty or bad news to the family. Some believe it means you’ll marry a crazy spouse. It’s an old superstition that’s still followed in many homes.
Haunted Highways
There are many Canadian highways believed to be haunted. People report seeing ghost hitchhikers or phantom cars. Some drivers honk or say a prayer when passing these spots. These spooky stories are part of many local traditions across Canada.
Birthday Bumps
In some parts of Canada, people believe you should lift a person up by their arms and legs on their birthday. The number of lifts should match their age. It’s thought to bring good luck for the coming year. Just be careful not to drop the birthday person!
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