Canada is a country full of surprises. While it might seem similar to other Western nations at first glance, Canadians have their own unique quirks and customs that set them apart. From how they interact with others to their daily habits, there are many ways in which Canadians differ from people in other parts of the world.
In this article, I’ll explore 15 surprising ways Canadians stand out from the crowd.
1. Milk in bags
Canadians buy their milk in plastic bags instead of cartons or jugs. They place these bags in special pitchers and snip off a corner to pour. This unique packaging method is eco-friendly and takes up less space in the fridge. It’s a distinctly Canadian approach to a everyday product.
2. Ketchup-flavored potato chips
In Canada, ketchup isn’t just a condiment – it’s a popular potato chip flavor. These tangy, red-dusted chips are a staple snack food across the country. Many Canadians grow up loving this flavor and are surprised to learn it’s not common elsewhere. It’s a taste of home that’s hard to find outside of Canada.
3. Saying sorry excessively
Canadians are famous for saying “sorry” even when they’re not at fault. It’s a reflex that goes beyond simple politeness. They might apologize for someone else bumping into them or for asking a question. This habit is so ingrained that Canada even has an “Apology Act” to prevent saying sorry from being used as an admission of guilt in court.
4. Poutine as a national dish
Poutine, a dish of french fries topped with gravy and cheese curds, is beloved across Canada. It originated in Quebec but has become a nationwide favorite. Canadians have countless variations of poutine, adding toppings like bacon, pulled pork, or even lobster. This comfort food is a source of national pride and confusion for visitors unfamiliar with the dish.
5. Using the term “double-double”
When ordering coffee, many Canadians ask for a “double-double”. This means a coffee with two creams and two sugars. The term is so common that it’s even in the Canadian Oxford Dictionary. It’s a quick and efficient way to order a specific type of coffee, especially at popular chains like Tim Hortons.
6. Calling a beanie a “toque”
What many people call a beanie, Canadians refer to as a “toque”. This French-derived word is used across the country for the warm, knitted caps worn in cold weather. Canadians might get confused if you ask for a beanie, as that term isn’t commonly used. The toque is an essential part of Canadian winter wear.
7. Boxing Day shopping tradition
While many countries wind down after Christmas, Canadians gear up for Boxing Day on December 26th. This is one of the biggest shopping days of the year, with major sales across the country. Many Canadians wake up early to line up for deals, similar to Black Friday in the US. It’s a post-holiday tradition that’s eagerly anticipated by bargain hunters.
8. Using “eh” in conversation
The stereotypical “eh” at the end of sentences is actually used by many Canadians. It serves multiple purposes in conversation, such as checking for agreement or emphasizing a point. While not every Canadian uses it, it’s common enough to be noticeable. This linguistic quirk is a playful part of Canadian English that often stands out to visitors.
9. Loving Tim Hortons
Tim Hortons, often called “Timmies”, is more than just a coffee shop in Canada. It’s a cultural institution. Canadians have a deep affection for this chain, which serves coffee, donuts, and other fast food. Many Canadians start their day with a Tim Hortons run. The company’s connection to hockey and Canadian identity makes it a source of national pride.
10. Wearing shoes indoors
Unlike in many Asian countries, it’s common for Canadians to wear shoes inside their homes. This habit often surprises visitors from cultures where removing shoes is the norm. However, during wet or snowy weather, Canadians do typically remove their footwear to keep floors clean. It’s a flexible custom that adapts to the seasons.
11. Using the metric system (mostly)
Canada officially uses the metric system, but in practice, it’s a mix. Canadians measure temperature in Celsius and distance in kilometers. However, they often use feet and inches for height, and pounds for personal weight. This blend of systems can be confusing for visitors, but Canadians are used to switching between the two.
12. Having a distinct currency
Canadian money stands out with its colorful designs and unique materials. The currency features influential Canadians, wildlife, and cultural symbols. Canadian bills are made of polymer, making them durable and hard to counterfeit. The one-dollar coin, known as the “loonie”, and the two-dollar coin, the “toonie”, replace paper bills for these amounts.
13. Celebrating Thanksgiving in October
While Americans celebrate Thanksgiving in November, Canadians have their holiday in October. This earlier date is due to Canada’s colder climate and earlier harvest season. Canadian Thanksgiving is a more low-key affair, without the same emphasis on shopping that follows the American holiday. It’s a time for family gatherings and appreciating the fall season.
14. Ice hockey as a national obsession
Hockey isn’t just a sport in Canada – it’s a way of life. Many Canadians grow up playing or watching hockey, and it’s a major part of the country’s culture. The NHL season is closely followed, and international tournaments like the Olympics are huge events. Even non-sports fans often have opinions about hockey in Canada.
15. Using “washroom” instead of “bathroom”
When Canadians need to use the restroom in public, they often ask for the “washroom“. This term is used instead of “bathroom” or “restroom” in most situations. It’s considered a polite way to refer to public toilets. This linguistic difference can sometimes lead to confusion for visitors unfamiliar with the term.
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