Visiting Canada? Looking for those great Canadian souvenirs? We all have that desire to bring back that one thing that will remind us of the great vacation. Finding that one keepsake that will take us back down memory lane.
Canada is a young country but still is true to the roots. Which is why taking just one souvenir might be that hard part!
As you plan your vacation to Canada here are a few things you will want to look for.
Maple Syrup
You cannot leave Canada without a good bottle of maple syrup. This is the one thing I bring on my vacations if I am staying at another persons home. It is a great gift for anyone that likes a little sweetness in their life. Buying from local farmers or markets is a great way to help out the community and it is better tasting!
During the early months of spring you can find many festivals and markets around Canada. Generations have been producing this sweet delicacy and should be one thing you bring back.
Crown Royal
Crown Royal Whisky was introduced in 1939. Production of Crown Royal is done at Gimli, Manitoba, while the blending and bottling of the whisky is done in a facility in Amherstburg, Ontario.
Originally this was a specialty drink made for Royalty. Yes that is correct. This blend of 50 different whiskey’s was introduce for her majesty Queen Elizabeth and King George IV for their first trip here.
In 1964 it went international and became a big signature for Canada. So if you are a whiskey lover this is one to bring home.
Coffee
You will not be able to drive around any town and not run into a Tim Hortons. The number 1 coffee sold here in Canada. Now there is a special way to order. If you like 1 sugar and 1 cream it is called a regular. If you like 2 sugar 2 cream it is called a double double. Want 3 sugars and 3 cream you had better ask for a triple triple. Learning the Timmies lingo is very important, and much easier than ordering a starbucks!
Tim Hortons is named after a famous hockey player, and I’m sure you know Canadians take their hockey just as seriously as their coffee.
So if you love or someone you love needs a good bean then you better make a stop here!
Inukshuk
Native history is something to be taken seriously. The amazing art and stunning handmade crafts that you can find around Canada we a treasure. The Inuksuit is a very spiritual figure and one you can find in a lot of gardens around Canada.
Inuksuit are placed throughout the Arctic landscape acting as “helpers ” to the Inuit. Among their many practical functions, they are used as hunting and navigational aids, coordination points. In addition to their earthly functions, certain inuksuk-like figures have spiritual connotations, and are objects of great respect, often marking the spiritual landscape of the Inummariit — the Inuit who know how to survive on the land living in their traditional way.
Clothing
Canada’s 2 biggest names are Roots and Lululemon.
Roots is one piece of clothing that you will see a lot of Canadians wearing in summer, spring, fall and winter. The quality and style is something to desire. So when you get to that mall or outlet center be sure to stop in, if even just for a toque (knitted hat, see below for more on that).
Lululemon a very well known brand of yoga and athletic wear. They are committed to empowering women and men to reach their full potential. Comfy enough to sweat in.
Canada loves their sports team. Even the Maple Leafs who have not won a Stanley Cup since 1967. Canadians can and will still back them up. Going to be in Toronto between October and April check out a game. Coming in the summer don’t forget to check out a BlueJays baseball game!
Stuffies for the Kids
The Bear, the Beaver and the Moose these are the animals that you think of when you picture Canada. Heading down any highway and the rest stops will have these furry Canadian friends in the gift store. Don’t forget to look for a Mountie one. The Mounties are the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Peace officers of Canada.
Mittens
There is no denying that Canada has some rough winters. So with that there is no surprise that they some of the warmest clothing. I know I have already mentioned the clothing. However this is not clothing. These are Mittens, Canadian Mittens. You also heard me mention toque, well that our form of winter hat. If you plan on coming here during the months of October to April you best be thinking about getting these when you arrive.
Snacks
Chocolate bars are an amazing snack and finding certain kinds anywhere else is near impossible. Coffee Crisp, Caramilk, Smarties, Big Turk, Wunderbar, Mr Big, Crispy Crunch and Bounty. Now if you want my opinion I would say Big Turk and Wunderbar are the best, at least they are my favorite.
On your visit these are a must try. I know a lot of Americans that cross the border for these. If you really want a full taste of Ketchup Flavor you will want to get Doritos.
Jewelry
Polar bear Diamonds are the most common in Canada. Each one has a laser imprinted polar bear. Now the tricky part is finding them. Good luck 🙂
Native accessories
Handmade customs Indigenous Jewelry and art is very sought after in Canada. Traditional arts such dream catchers are a fabulous find. Best to look up an authentic art store or try to make it out to one of the many reserves across Canada.
Wine
Last but not least, my top pick, Ice wine. Canada might not be known for its wine. However if you do want a great wine to take home try an ice wine. This is a sweet dessert wine. Head to Niagara on the Lake to try Reif Estate Wine.
Other great places for wine are Leamington, Kingsville, Harrow and Colchester all in Ontario.
British Columbia is also very well known for Wine within Canada.
The great thing about Canada is the love Canadians have for the country. The history and passion that they bring is remarkable. Canada is still young and has a lot to learn, but the love of internationals will make it stronger.
If you think of anything that I may have missed please let me know by leaving a comment below and I will be sure to add it.