Canada is known for its friendly people and beautiful scenery, but there are a whole bunch of odd things Canadians do that might leave others scratching their heads. From how they drink milk to how they apologize, these habits can seem pretty strange to outsiders.
But here’s the thing – once you understand why Canadians do these weird things, they actually make a lot of sense. Get ready to see why these 17 odd behaviors are part of everyday life in Canada!
Using a Snow Brush Year-Round
Many Canadians keep a snowbrush in their car no matter the season. It might be summer, but you never know when snow will surprise you. This habit saves time and stress when unexpected weather hits. It’s a simple way for Canadians to stay prepared for their unpredictable climate.
Putting Vinegar on French Fries
Many Canadians love to douse their fries in vinegar. It adds a tangy kick that goes great with salt. This habit might seem odd to visitors, but it’s a common sight at food stands and restaurants. Some say it makes the fries taste fresher and less greasy.
Using “Toque” Instead of “Beanie”
In Canada, a warm winter hat is called a toque. It’s pronounced “too-k” and is used all over the country. This word comes from French Canadian roots. Canadians might get confused if you call it a beanie or a ski cap. Locals use a unique part of Canadian English without thinking twice.
Measuring Distance in Time
Ask a Canadian how far away something is, and they’ll likely tell you how long it takes to drive there. Instead of saying “300 kilometers,” they’ll say “about a 3-hour drive.” This habit comes from how spread out many Canadian cities and towns are. It gives a more practical sense of distance in such a big country.
Barbecuing in Any Weather
Rain, shine, or snow – Canadians will fire up the grill. Barbecue season never really ends in Canada. You might see people grilling in parkas in the middle of winter. This shows how much Canadians love outdoor cooking and refuse to let the weather stop them from enjoying good food.
Buying Milk in Bags
In some parts of Canada, milk comes in plastic bags. You put the bag in a special jug and snip off a corner to pour. It saves space in the fridge and makes less waste. Plus, you can buy milk in smaller amounts, so it’s always fresh. This habit seems strange to visitors but is totally normal for many Canadians.
Using “Washroom” Instead of “Bathroom”
Canadians often ask for the “washroom” instead of the “bathroom” or “restroom.” This polite term is used in homes, restaurants, and public places. It might confuse tourists at first, but locals use it without thinking. It’s seen as a more proper way to ask for the facilities.
Wearing Shoes Inside Stores
While Canadians take off their shoes at home, they keep them on in stores – even shoe stores. This might seem obvious, but you take off your shoes in some countries to try on new ones. In Canada, special disposable socks are provided instead. This habit keeps things moving quickly in shops, especially during busy seasons.
Eating Poutine as Comfort Food
Poutine – a dish of fries, gravy, and cheese curds – is a go-to comfort food for many Canadians. It might look messy, but it’s deeply satisfying, especially on cold days or late nights. Canadians have turned this simple dish into a national favorite. You can find it everywhere, from fancy restaurants to food trucks.
Tapping Maple Trees
Many Canadians tap maple trees in their yards or nearby forests each spring. They collect the sap and boil it down to make maple syrup. This old tradition is still alive, even in cities. It takes a lot of sap to make a little syrup, but Canadians think it’s worth it. The homemade stuff tastes way better than what you buy in stores.
Ice Fishing in Tiny Huts
Canadians set up small huts on frozen lakes to fish through holes in the ice. These “ice fishing shacks” can be pretty cozy, with heaters and even TVs inside. It might look crazy to sit on a frozen lake for hours, but it’s a fun winter activity. Plus, the fish taste great when you catch them this fresh.
Using “Loonie” and “Toonie” for Money
Canadians call their $1 coin a “loonie” and the $2 coin a “toonie.” The loonie has a loonbird on it, and the toonie comes after. These fun names make talking about money more interesting. A Canadian might say, “That’ll be two loonies and a toonie, please.”
Dipping Pizza in Creamy Garlic Sauce
Many Canadians love to dip their pizza in creamy garlic sauce. This habit started with a popular pizza chain offering the sauce as a free side. Now, lots of people expect it with their pizza. Some even buy extra sauce just for dipping. It adds a rich, garlicky flavor many Canadians can’t imagine pizza without.
Saying Temperatures in Celsius
While the U.S. uses Fahrenheit, Canadians use Celsius for temperature. They know 30°C is hot and -30°C is really cold. This can confuse visitors, but it makes sense to locals. Canadians often have to “translate” temperatures when talking to American friends.
Playing Road Hockey
Kids (and some adults) often play hockey right on the street. They use tennis balls instead of pucks and move the nets when cars come by. You’ll hear shouts of “Car!” followed by a pause in the game. It’s a way to play Canada’s favorite sport without needing an ice rink.
Loving Ketchup Chips
Ketchup-flavored potato chips are a big hit in Canada. They’re tangy and salty. Many Canadians grow up eating these and love them as adults too. Visitors often find the idea strange, but locals can’t get enough. You’ll find ketchup chips at most stores and parties. It’s a snack that’s become part of Canadian culture, even if it sounds odd to others.
Using “Hydro” for Electricity
In many parts of Canada, people say “hydro” instead of “electricity” or “power.” This comes from hydroelectric power being common in Canada. You might hear someone say, “Don’t forget to pay the hydro bill.” It’s a quirk of Canadian English that shows the country’s history with water-generated power.
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