Whether you have a friend living abroad and missing their home country or simply know someone who loves Canada, when it comes to gifting, be sure to give them all of their favourite Canadian treats and trinkets. There are a variety of Canadian related goods that are sure to satisfy any Canadian! From gift baskets full of maple syrup and butter tarts to an array of Raptors gear, here are seven Canadian gifting tips and ideas that will surely make your loved ones feel extra special during the holidays.
- Canadian Ice Wine
Canadians know that ice wine is the perfect dessert wine thanks to the amazing taste that comes from the frozen grapes that are used to make it. The smooth yet rich flavours of ice wine are what makes it so popular and well known not just in Canada, but around the world. If you know a wine lover that also happens to be Canadian, Canadian ice wine is sure to make the perfect gift for them. Pair it with some delicious cheeses and a box of fancy crackers and you’ve got a gift worthy of any Canadian!
- Canadian Gift Basket
Who doesn’t love a gift basket? Gift baskets are universally loved by all due to the fact that they can be customized to each individual recipient. If you want to make your gift basket especially Canadian, be sure to fill it up with all kinds of Canadian goods such as ketchup chips, beaver tails, smoked salmon, and more. You can even add in some flowers that are native to Canada or decorate it with some maple leaves. You can rest assured that anyone receiving the gift basket is going to be beyond thrilled to find what’s inside.
- Wool Blankets
To say that Canada is cold during the winter would be an understatement. The Canada winters can be unforgiving, which is why wool blankets are so popular in Canada—specifically ones from Woolrich, an outdoor clothing store that has locations all across Canada. You can purchase wool blankets for just about anyone on your list because after all, who doesn’t like to be cozy during the winter? Best of all, these blankets come in a variety of different designs and colours so you are sure to be able to find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
- Sports Gear
The good thing about sports is that there are all kinds of merchandise for sale for just about any team under the sun. If you have a sports aficionado in your life, be sure to include sports gear in your shopping cart this year! You can choose from all kinds of merch including posters, calendars, keychains, backpacks—anything you can think of, chances are it’s got a sport’s logo on it. Whether you get a Toronto Blue Jays cap or a Toronto Raptors jersey, your sports loving loved one will certainly appreciate it.
- Maple Syrup
Perhaps the most quintessential Canadian treat—maple syrup is a staple in any Canadian’s pantry. Make sure your loved ones stay stocked up year round by giving them some good old-fashioned maple syrup. Look for a brand that is authentic and that gets their syrup from Canadian trees. There are a variety of different types of Canadian maple syrup including blonde, copper, and amber. The flavours vary in intensity and taste but are delicious no matter what you put them on. Whether on pancakes, ice cream, or just on its own, Canadian maple syrup never fails to be the perfect gift.
- DIY Poutine Kit
Poutine is another one of those Canadian classics that are beloved by Canadians near and far. Whether you are sending a Canadian care package to a friend overseas or know someone who enjoys cooking, consider gifting them a DIY poutine kit. You can purchase these from several different places which include a variety of different ingredients such as cheese curds, and bacon but will all ultimately have French fries and gravy in the kit. If you’d rather make it more personalized, you can always assemble the kit on your own using the recipient’s favourites!
- Canadian Calendar
It’s safe to say that Canada has some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. From the gorgeous mountains to the incredible forests, these sceneries are all captured in a Canadian calendar. A Canadian calendar will include a different picture of a Canadian landscape for each month, which is a perfect reminder of home for those Canadians living abroad. You can also find a calendar full of Canadian wildlife as opposed to the different sceneries. Regardless of which calendar you choose, it will make a great gift for your Canada loving friend.
