As we approach the final days of the holiday season, a new national poll showcases Canadians are leaning back into tradition—from choosing classic Christmas greetings to enjoying familiar festive foods.
According to Research Co., “Merry Christmas” remains the most popular holiday greeting with 67% of Canadians preferring it over “Happy Holidays.” That sentiment is echoed throughout British Columbia, where 68% of residents say it’s their greeting of choice.
Only 18% of Canadians prefer “Happy Holidays,” and 16% don’t have a preference.
While the holidays can bring added pressure, there’s still plenty of optimism across the country. More than half of Canadians expect this year’s season to be more fun than stressful, though three-in-10 British Columbians say it feels more stressful than enjoyable.
Those feelings are most common among generation X, with 34% anticipating a stressful holiday season.
When it comes to what’s on the table, Canadians still love holiday staples.
Four-in-five Canadians enjoy turkey at Christmas dinner, and nearly two-thirds like to add cranberry sauce.
Fewer people reach for Brussels sprouts, fruit cake, mince pies, or plum pudding.
Eggnog continues to be a holiday staple as well, with 55% of Canadians saying they enjoy this sweet drink, and 55% of BC residents agree with this.
Beyond food and holiday greetings, Research Co. also asked Canadians when they learned the truth about Santa Claus and when they believed children should be told.
The poll found that 56% of Canadians discovered the truth by age nine, while 28% found out at age 10 or older.
However, opinions on the right time to reveal the truth are mixed. Poll results found that 52% of Canadians believe children should learn by age nine, but 36% feel it’s appropriate to wait until age 10 or later.
Whether it’s sticking to a simple “Merry Christmas” or raising a glass of eggnog, the poll shows many Canadians are embracing familiar traditions as they wrap up the holiday season.
