4. The Mighty Toque

First off, it’s pronounced “tuke”—and it’s way more than just a winter hat. Toques are an essential part of the Canadian wardrobe, worn year-round by those who live life in perpetual cozy mode. We’ll sport them indoors, outdoors, at hockey games, or just because it’s a little breezy.

It’s more than fashion—it’s a state of mind.

And in true Canadian style, even rock stars embrace the toque spirit. Todd Kerns, a proud Canuck who now plays bass with Slash, has his own cover band called Toque. The band exclusively plays Canadian rock hits, celebrating the great music of the Great White North. How Canadian is that, eh?

5. The Inexplicable “Eh?”

We know, we know—Canadians are famous for saying “eh.” It’s the ultimate Canadian punctuation, softening statements and making them sound friendlier. Whether we’re asking for agreement, confirming a fact, or just looking for a response, “eh” is versatile and oddly comforting.

Next time you hear it, just nod and go with the flow.

6. Poutine: Hands-On or Fork-Free?

Poutine—Quebec’s legendary dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy—is often eaten without a fork. Why? Because getting your hands a little messy is half the fun. Sure, you can use utensils if you’re feeling refined, but there’s something about scooping up that cheesy, gravy-soaked goodness that feels just right.

Pro tip: Eat it quickly before the fries get too soggy.

7. Milk in Bags: A Practical Quirk

If you’re from Ontario or the Maritimes, milk in bags is just how it’s done. You get a three-pack of litre bags, pop one into a special pitcher, and snip the corner to pour. It’s a perfectly normal grocery staple—until someone from another country sees it and their brain short-circuits.

To us, it’s just efficient. To everyone else, it’s a mystery.

8. Victoria Day: The May Two-Four

Victoria Day isn’t just about celebrating Queen Victoria’s birthday—it’s about kicking off summer with a bang. Think barbecues, fireworks, and cracking open a “two-four” (that’s a 24-pack of beer, for the uninitiated). The name itself is a pun—May 24th or “two-four”—and it’s when we collectively decide it’s warm enough to wear shorts, even if it’s still kind of chilly.

9. The Canadian Tuxedo: Denim Overload

We’re not afraid to wear denim on denim. A jean jacket with jeans is what we call the Canadian Tuxedo, and it’s not just acceptable—it’s celebrated. Some say it started as a practical outfit for hardworking folks, but now it’s more of a statement. We like to think it says, “I’m rugged, but also kinda stylish.”

10. Vinegar on Fries: A Tangy Tradition

While other places go for ketchup or mayo, we’re big fans of dousing our fries in malt vinegar. The sharp, tangy taste adds a kick that’s hard to beat, especially with fish and chips. If you’re visiting and see a bottle of vinegar on the table, go ahead—give it a try. You might just become a convert.

Canada: Quirky and Proud of It

Sure, some of our customs might seem a bit odd to the rest of the world, but we wear our quirks with pride. From ketchup chips to apologizing more than necessary, these little traditions are what make Canada home.

If you’re Canadian, you probably didn’t even notice these habits were weird. And if you’re not—well, consider this your crash course in living like a true Canuck.

Got more Canadian quirks to add to the list? Let us know in the comments, eh? 🍁