Explore Winter Festivities in the Greater Toronto Area This blog was written in collaboration with the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. As winter settles in, the Greater Toronto Area comes alive with exciting festivals celebrating the season. Join the community to explore the winter festivities and make this winter memorable. Most…
Celebrating Your First Thanksgiving – Thanksgiving Culture in Canada How do Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving in Canada is a national holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. It’s all about spending time with family and friends and being grateful for what we have. The traditional meal usually includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce,…
Life in Canada: Discover Toronto’s Fall Festivals and Events This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. As the vibrant city of Toronto celebrates the start of the fall season, newcomers have an opportunity to immerse themselves into the local culture through various exciting festivals and events. Each…
Life in Canada: Must-Visit Provincial Parks in Ontario This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Ontario’s provincial parks are a testament to the province’s rich natural beauty, waiting to be explored and enjoyed throughout the year. They offer outdoor activities that suit every interest and passion with…
Socializing in Canada: Newcomer Stories on English Learning Journeys This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Learning English can feel like a real adventure and often brings unforgettable stories of lighthearted and funny moments, as well as valuable lessons. We reached out to settled newcomers who learned…
Newcomer Guide to Canadian National Parks: Destinations and Essential Tips This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Canada’s national parks are a natural beauty and adventure gold mine, both because of the breathtaking landscapes and a wide array of activities. Before exploring the beauty of these parks,…
Socializing in Canada: Tips on Navigating Language Barriers for Newcomers This blog was written by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Communicating effectively in your non-native language can present challenges, but it’s a skill that can be mastered with persistent practice over time. Whether you’ve just started learning English or trying…
Cultural Etiquette in Canada: Tips for Navigating Social Interactions Getting along with people from different cultures can be a wonderful experience and is important in a diverse country like Canada. To do this, we need to respect each other’s differences and keep an open mind. Here are some tips to help you approach cultural differences…
Canadian Culture: Celebrating Family Day February is the month when most provinces in Canada celebrate Family Day. This heartwarming holiday, which falls on the third Monday of February, was proclaimed in 1990 to emphasize the importance of family values. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together, relax, and enjoy each other’s…
Winter Grocery Shopping: Three Tips for Healthy and Budget-Friendly Meals As we head into the winter season, I know it can be tough finding healthy and affordable options in the grocery store, especially when fresh produce is pricier than usual. Try these three tips to help you navigate the aisles and shop smart this winter.…
