Dating in Canada

Canada, being the world’s second-largest country by land area, has historical roots, ranging from the indigenous First Nations people to the colonial influences of France and Britain. All of these influences have played a significant role in shaping the unique cultural dynamic of the nation, including its dating culture. The mosaic of cultural diversity brought about by waves of immigration has also led to a variety of dating customs within the country. As a result, dating in Canada can be seen as a reflection of its historical journey, embodying a synthesis of different cultural norms and traditions.

The influence of European settlers, primarily the French and British, introduced a more conventional or traditional form of courtship to Canada, involving formal introductions and parent-involvement in the early stages. These traditions have left an imprint, albeit less pronounced today, with certain formalities still playing a part in dating, such as respectful manners and sometimes, a slower pace in the development of a relationship. On the other hand, the indigenous cultures of Canada traditionally had more diverse and flexible views on relationships and marriage, often involving more communal and extended-family structures.

In the modern context, Canada’s dating culture has evolved to embody a broad spectrum of practices, still influenced by its historical roots. Canadians are typically known for their politeness and respectfulness, traits that often translate into their dating etiquette. The country’s focus on multiculturalism also means that cross-cultural dating is common and celebrated. As a progressive society, there is an emphasis on mutual respect and gender equality within dating and relationships. Meanwhile, the vastness of the country with its urban and rural variations also creates unique dating situations; outdoor dates exploring nature are common in more rural areas, while city-dates might involve immersion in the local cultural or culinary scene. Thus, the dating culture in Canada is a living testament to its historical past, fused with contemporary values and diversity.

As we hope you will find in this article, dating in Canada is a fascinating subject. As Canadian society evolves and intercultural interactions increase, these customs continue to intermingle and evolve, creating a dynamic and intriguing Canadian dating scene for singles.

Interesting facts about dating in Canada

1. Winter Dating Rituals: In Canada, where winters can be harsh and long, a unique dating tradition known as ‘snow dating’ has emerged. This could involve activities like skating at the local rink, building a snowman together, or even participating in a friendly snowball fight. Winter sports such as skiing or ice hockey matches also serve as popular date activities.
2. Cottage Culture: Many Canadians have access to a family cottage or cabin, usually by a lake. It’s common in dating culture to invite a significant other for a weekend trip to the cottage, especially during the summer months. This usually involves boating, swimming, fishing, and barbecuing.
3. Canadian Hospitality: Canadians are known for their politeness and hospitality. In dating culture, this might translate into one party inviting the other for a home-cooked meal quite early in the dating phase. Traditional Canadian dishes like Poutine or Tourtière might be on the menu.
4. Hockey Dates: Hockey is a significant part of Canadian culture. As such, attending a hockey game together is a popular dating activity, whether it’s a local game or a National Hockey League match.
5. Multicultural Dating: Given Canada’s multicultural nature, dating can often involve exploring each other’s cultural traditions, foods, and festivals, providing a rich tapestry of experiences.
6. Nature Outings: Canada’s vast natural beauty, from the Rocky Mountains to the coastal shores, encourages a strong outdoor dating culture. Hiking, canoeing, wildlife spotting, or just enjoying a sunset by the lake are common dating activities.
7. Tim Hortons Dates: This iconic Canadian coffee shop chain is a popular spot for casual first dates. The ‘double-double’ coffee (two sugars, two creams) and a box of Timbits (donut holes) are often involved.
8. The Quebec Influence: In the province of Quebec, where French is the primary language, some traditional French European courtship customs may still influence the dating scene, adding another layer of cultural nuance.
9. Politeness Matters: Canadians’ reputation for being polite extends to their dating manners. Being respectful, attentive, and considerate is important in Canadian dating culture.

Social life in French Canada versus English Canada

In Quebec, the social life is heavily influenced by French culture, given the province’s historical roots in French colonial expansion. There is a strong emphasis on community and family life. Quebecers, also known as Québécois, tend to spend a lot of time with family and friends, and the province is known for its vibrant arts scene, with a love for music, theater, and festivals. Culinary traditions are heavily influenced by French cuisine, and meals are often seen as an opportunity to spend time with family or friends. French is the predominant language spoken at home and in public places, and Quebecers are generally fiercely protective of their language and culture.

English-speaking Canada, on the other hand, is more diverse due to the influence of British heritage and a history of immigration from various parts of the world. This part of Canada encompasses numerous cultural backgrounds, resulting in a vast array of traditions and practices. Social life in English-speaking Canada is often centered around outdoor activities due to the region’s extensive natural beauty, and this is reflected in a strong culture of hiking, skiing, and camping. English Canadians also have a strong sports culture, with hockey being a particularly important pastime.

It’s also important to note that, due to the multicultural nature of English Canada, the social life varies widely between cities and regions. For instance, the social culture of cosmopolitan cities like Toronto or Vancouver, known for their diversity and vibrant arts and food scenes, can be quite different from rural areas in the Prairie provinces or the Maritimes.

It’s important to note that while these distinctions exist, there’s also a considerable amount of overlap and exchange between French and English Canada, contributing to the rich, diverse offering of Canadian social life. And while language may differ, values such as politeness, respect for diversity, love of nature, and enthusiasm for festivals and arts are shared across the entire country.

La Révolution tranquille

The feminist movement in Quebec during the 20th century had a profound impact on social, political, and personal life, including aspects of dating and relationships. This movement is often referred to as the “Révolution tranquille” or “Quiet Revolution,” and it occurred during the 1960s and 1970s. It was a time of rapid change and modernization in Quebec society, including significant advances for women’s rights.

Quebec feminism was distinctive in its emphasis on a collective, rather than individualistic, struggle for gender equality. This was due, in part, to the province’s history of strong labor unions and a societal structure heavily influenced by Catholic social teachings. The Quebec women’s movement fought for and won significant legal and institutional reforms, including the creation of a provincial ministry responsible for the status of women, the adoption of pay equity legislation, and the implementation of a low-cost, universal daycare program.

The feminist movement in Quebec had a profound influence on dating and relationships, in part by challenging traditional gender roles. Women began to demand greater autonomy and equality within their relationships. This had the effect of altering expectations around dating, courtship, and marriage, with greater acceptance for women initiating dates, paying their own way, or choosing to stay single.

The impact of the feminist movement on relationships in Quebec can also be seen in the shift in attitudes towards sexuality and family structure. Sexuality began to be seen as an integral part of personal identity and autonomy, leading to a more open and accepting attitude towards sexual diversity. Additionally, family structures evolved with more women entering the workforce, more men participating in child-rearing, and an increase in single-parent households and common-law relationships.

The legacy of the Quebec feminist movement is still apparent today. Quebec society is characterized by a strong commitment to gender equality, which continues to shape dating and relationships. This can be seen in the expectation of shared household duties, the acceptance of diverse relationship structures, and the belief in women’s autonomy and equal participation in all aspects of life. However, it’s important to note that the movement’s gains have not been uniformly experienced by all women, with Indigenous women, women of color, and other marginalized groups still facing significant barriers to equality.

Most Romantic Day in Canada

Much like the United States, Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th, is widely celebrated in Canada, as it is in many parts of the world. It is a day dedicated to expressing love and affection to partners, friends, and family members. People often exchange gifts, cards, and flowers, and plan romantic outings or dinners.

Though not exclusively a romantic occasion for Canadian singles, couples in Canada will often celebrate their anniversary, wedding or engagement days each year. These mark special occasions for them to reflect on their relationship and reignite their flame.

Each year New Year’s Eve is often seen as a time of fresh beginnings and resolutions. Many couples in Canada celebrate this evening together, attending parties, watching fireworks, or enjoying a romantic dinner. It’s a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the future with optimism.

Though its origins are criticized for commercialism, some Canadians may celebrate Sweetest Day. On the third Saturday in October, individuals may surprise their partner with small gifts or acts of love and appreciation. That being said, it is not a widely acknowledged celebration.

As multiculturalism is a common theme in North America, foreigners living in Canada may share their culture with Canadians as well. In this case, other traditionally non-North American holidays may be celebrated also.

Typical First Date in Canada

A typical first date in Canada can vary depending on personal preferences, cultural backgrounds, and the location within the country. However, here’s a description of a common scenario for a first date in Canada:

Meeting Point: The couple usually agrees to meet at a public place such as a café, restaurant, or a casual bar. It could be a location chosen by either person or a mutual decision.

Getting Acquainted: Upon meeting, there is usually a warm greeting, such as a handshake or a hug, followed by friendly conversation to break the ice. This conversation may involve asking about each other’s interests, hobbies, work, and background to get to know each other better.

Activity or Outing: The couple may choose to engage in a specific activity or go on an outing together. This could be anything from going for a walk in a park, visiting a museum or art gallery, watching a movie, going bowling, or even enjoying a picnic.

Conversation and Connection: Throughout the date, conversation plays a crucial role in establishing a connection. Both individuals take turns asking questions, sharing stories, and actively listening to each other. Topics can range from personal experiences, aspirations, and hobbies to more lighthearted discussions about current events or shared interests.

Flirting and Romance: As the date progresses and if there is a mutual connection, there may be subtle flirting, compliments, and light physical touch like hand-holding or a gentle touch on the arm. The level of romance and affection can vary depending on the comfort level and chemistry between the individuals.

Conclusion: Towards the end of the date, the couple may evaluate how well they connected and whether they would like to meet again. It is common to express appreciation for the time spent together and discuss the possibility of a second date. If there is a mutual interest, plans for future outings might be made.

It’s important to note that everyone’s first date experience can be unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all description. Dates can be influenced by personal preferences, cultural backgrounds, and the dynamic between the individuals involved. The most important aspect is creating an atmosphere of comfort, respect, and genuine connection.

Canadian Dating etiquette

Canadian dating etiquette is generally characterized by politeness, respect, and a casual approach. While customs and expectations can vary among individuals, here are some common aspects of Canadian dating etiquette:

1. Asking someone out: It is common for either person to initiate a date by asking the other person out. This can be done in person, over the phone, or through text messaging. It is considered polite to be direct and clear when extending the invitation.
2. Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued in Canadian dating culture. Arriving a few minutes early or at the agreed-upon time shows respect for the other person’s schedule and is seen as a courteous gesture.
3. Dressing appropriately: Canadians tend to dress casually for most occasions, including dates. However, the choice of attire can depend on the specific activity and location. It is advisable to dress neatly and in a manner that reflects the nature of the date, whether it’s a casual outing or a more formal event.
4. Splitting the bill: The expectation of splitting the bill evenly between both individuals is quite common in Canada. It is considered fair and egalitarian. However, some individuals may prefer to take turns paying or cover the entire bill as a gesture of generosity.
5. Personal space and physical contact: Canadians generally respect personal space and value consent when it comes to physical contact. Physical contact, such as handshakes, hugs, or light touches, may be initiated if there is mutual comfort and attraction. However, it is important to be mindful of the other person’s boundaries and preferences.
6. Open communication: Canadians appreciate open and honest communication. It is important to express your thoughts, interests, and intentions clearly. Active listening and engaging in meaningful conversation are valued qualities in dating interactions.
7. Respect for diversity: Canada is a multicultural country, and dating etiquette should be mindful and respectful of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Being open-minded, tolerant, and curious about the other person’s culture or experiences can enhance the dating experience.
8. Consent and boundaries: Consent and respect for personal boundaries are fundamental in Canadian dating etiquette. It is crucial to ask for and respect the other person’s consent before initiating any physical contact or advancing the relationship.

Social cues

In Canada, social cues given by men and women during a date can vary depending on individuals and their personal preferences. However, here are some general social cues that may be observed:

Social Cues from Men:

1. Initiating and planning the date: Men often take the lead in initiating and planning the date, suggesting activities or venues.
2. Opening doors and offering assistance: It is common for men to open doors, whether it’s a restaurant entrance or a car door, as a gesture of politeness and respect. They may also offer assistance, such as helping with coats or chairs.
3. Paying the bill: While it is becoming more common to split the bill in Canada, some men may still offer to pay for the date as a gesture of courtesy and chivalry. However, it is essential to respect the other person’s preference for splitting the bill.
4. Making compliments: Men may give compliments to express their interest and appreciation. This can include compliments on appearance, personality, or the efforts the person has put into the date.
5. Physical contact: Men may initiate physical contact, such as light touches on the arm, hand-holding, or offering a gentle touch, if there is mutual comfort and attraction. However, it is crucial to be attentive to the other person’s body language and boundaries.

Social Cues from Women:

1. Active engagement in conversation: Women often actively participate in conversation, asking questions, sharing their opinions, and showing genuine interest in the other person. Engaging in meaningful dialogue is a positive social cue.
2. Offering to contribute: Women may offer to split the bill or take turns paying for subsequent dates as a gesture of independence and equality. It is important to respect their preference.
3. Non-verbal cues: Women may use non-verbal cues to show interest, such as maintaining eye contact, smiling, leaning in, and nodding attentively during the conversation.
4. Giving and receiving compliments: Women may give compliments to show appreciation for their date’s qualities, appearance, or efforts. They may also respond positively to compliments received.
5. Physical contact: Like men, women may initiate physical contact, such as gentle touches or hand-holding, if there is mutual comfort and attraction. Respect for personal boundaries and consent is crucial.

It’s important to remember that these cues can vary among individuals, and there is no universal set of behaviors that applies to everyone. Each person has their own communication style and comfort level, so it’s important to pay attention to the specific cues and preferences of your date and communicate openly to ensure a positive and respectful interaction.

Gender roles

Modern Canada is by and large a egalitarian society. Though this will vary by individual, Canadians typically strive for a balance between common gender roles.

By category, here are a few ways that Canadian gender roles play out in everyday life:

1. Work and Career: In recent years, there has been a significant increase in gender equality in the workplace in Canada. Women have made progress in various professional fields and occupy positions traditionally dominated by men. However, certain industries still exhibit gender imbalances, and women continue to face challenges in achieving full representation and equal pay.
2. Family and Household: Gender roles within the family and household have also undergone changes in Canada. Many households have moved away from strict gender divisions, with both men and women sharing responsibilities related to child-rearing, housework, and financial support. There is an increasing emphasis on shared decision-making and a more equitable distribution of domestic duties.
3. Education: Gender equality in education is highly valued in Canada. Both boys and girls have equal opportunities to pursue education and achieve academic success. However, certain fields of study still exhibit gender imbalances, with some subjects and career paths being more commonly chosen by one gender over the other.
4. Relationships and Dating: Canadian society generally promotes egalitarian relationships based on mutual respect and shared responsibilities. Gender roles in dating and relationships are often flexible and can vary based on the preferences and dynamics of the individuals involved. Open communication and negotiation of roles and expectations are important aspects of healthy relationships.
5. Social and Cultural Participation: Canadians encourage individuals of all genders to actively participate in social, cultural, and recreational activities. There are no strict gender norms dictating hobbies, interests, or participation in sports or arts.

The importance of language

Language is an incredibly important topic to Canadians. Canada itself is linguistically diverse with more than 70 languages being spoken in modern day Canada. In addition to Canada’s official languages English and French, more than 60 other languages such as Inuktitut and Cree are also used to varying degrees in daily life.²

If you are reading this article, then we can assume you already speak English. It may not be possible to learn all languages, especially if backpacking or traveling through, but always relying on your English can be limiting and alienating. If you will visit Quebec and learn to speak basic or intermediate level French, a few phrases will go a long way. Nothing shows your date more respect than genuinely learning about his or her culture. Further, if you live near an First Nation community, why not learn a few greetings of phrases?

While nearly all Canadians will speak English, being able to communicate in any other local language can help to build stronger relationships with, facilitate communication in a variety of contexts and gain respect or trust with Canadians. It is a win-win situation for you and the perseverance of Canadian culture.

Is Canada gay friendly?

According to the ILGA, Canada has broad protections for the LGBTQ community, which means that homosexual relations are not only supported but likely very common in Canada. The average Canadian will hold relatively open views towards gay and lesbian couples, though this attitude may vary around the country. More conservative and secluded areas may hold different ideals than the mainstream.

That being said, Canada is typically considered to be a gay friendly country. Nearly every city in Canada has some gay night life scene, especially in cities like Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto.

Before you go, check out these popular gay dating apps in Canada.

Best way to meet singles in Canada

There are many organic ways to meet people in every day life. We hope that you have no trouble meeting people in Canada. Here are a few tips for meeting new people while in Canada:

• Through Friends and Social Connections: Let your friends and social connections know that you’re interested in meeting new people and potentially finding a partner. They may be able to introduce you to someone compatible or invite you to social gatherings where you can meet other singles.
• Networking and Professional Events: Attend networking events, conferences, or professional gatherings related to your industry. These events provide opportunities to meet new people, expand your social circle, and potentially meet singles who share your professional interests.
• Social Events and Meetups: Attend social events, gatherings, or meetups that align with your interests. Look for events in your community or join clubs, hobby groups, or sports teams. This can help you meet like-minded individuals and potentially connect with someone who shares your interests.
• Volunteering: Engage in volunteer work or community service activities. Not only does this allow you to contribute to a cause you care about, but it also provides an opportunity to meet individuals with similar values and passions.
• Speed Dating: Speed dating events provide an opportunity to meet multiple singles in a short period. These events usually involve rotating conversations with different individuals, allowing you to make initial connections and determine if there is mutual interest.
• Online Dating Platforms: If all else fails, there is always online dating. Online dating has become increasingly popular and convenient in Canada. Websites and mobile apps such as Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, and Match.com provide opportunities to create a profile, browse through potential matches, and communicate with other singles. These platforms allow you to specify your preferences and filter profiles based on various criteria.

Of course, since Canadians are usually open and friendly, you are just as likely to meet someone on the ski slopes, hiking or in line to order poutine as you are through any of the above suggestions.

Is it safe to date people in Canada?

Life in Canada is generally quite safe. There are always bad neighborhoods or less safe crowds, but general in cities like Winnipeg, Edmonton or Ottawa, safety should hopefully not be a major concern in normal circumstances. That being said, here are some tips which can help you to stay safe while dating in Canada:

• Lookup your date: If you have any doubts about the person, perhaps do a quick online search to verify their identity. If you find they have some presence on professional networks or social media you can review their profiles.
• Choose a reputable dating platform: There are many different dating apps, use a trusted and reliable app or website that requires identity verification. These apps can help weed out fake profiles and scammers with their powerful AI metrics.
• Use the messaging service on the dating app: In many cases, it is safer to use the messaging service provided by the dating site until you are comfortable sharing your contact details. This is because dating companies have a record of your chat but also because you can easily disconnect with someone should you feel uncomfortable.
• Keep personal information private: In general, you should never share sensitive information like your financial details, address for where you live or other private information with someone you have just met. This can be more true with someone you met online.
• Tell someone about your plans: It can be a good practice to tell a trusted friend or family member your dating plans. For example, where you are going, who you are meeting, and when you expect to return. If they do not hear from you by that time, then you can call to check on you. You can also ask them to call at a certain time to check on you.
• Meet in public: On your first few dates, meet in a public place like a café or a park where there are plenty of people around. In a cities like Ontario, Montreal or Vancouver, it should be quite easy to find a nice public space.
• Stay sober: If you drink alcohol on your first date, consider limiting your intake at first to ensure that you really get to know the person and are fully aware of your surroundings. Because alcohol can impair your judgment, it is safer to drink less when you first get to know someone.
• Trust your gut: Our instincts often know more than we give them credit for. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and do not feel obliged to stay in a situation that makes you uncomfortable. Remove yourself from a bad situation when it feels right to do so.
• Safe sex: Safe sex is smart sex. If you decide to become intimate with your date, remember to practice safe sex. This includes using protection and getting regular check-ups for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Remember, safety first. It is important to take precautions and use common sense when dating in Canada, whether online or offline.

Dating scams in Canada

Every day across the digital world, dating scams prey upon lonely and naive people online. This is just as true in Canada as it is anywhere else in the world. Dating scams online are rampant and can happen to anyone. It is always a good practice to be careful and approach online dating in Canada with caution.

Getting to know someone new, whether in real life or digitally, can and should be a fun process. It is important to build trust and use good judgement before sharing personal details.

In terms of dating scams specific to Canada, we do not currently know any. However, across the world these common dating scams which are widely reported on dating apps and websites:

• Catfishing: One of the most common is simply catfishing. Catfishing is essentially when someone presents themself as someone else using fake profile information, stolen or altered photos. Usually, they will use attractive pictures to lure in a person, but in reality they are quite different.
• Gift Scams: After forming a relationship with you, scammers might ask for expensive gifts or money to buy such gifts for you. Once the gifts or money are received, they will disappear.
• Advanced Fee Fraud: If you check your spam inbox you will likely see a few emails like this. Most commonly, they come from countries West African countries like Ghana or Nigeria, but can originate from anywhere. Usually the scammer forms a relationship with the victim and then asks for money to help them access a large sum of money they have supposedly inherited but cannot access. If it sounds to good to be true, then it usually is.
• Military Scams: In these scams, fraudsters pose as Canadian military personnel who are serving overseas or outside of Canada. They form a relationship with the victim and then ask for money, often claiming that it is for a leave application, medical expenses, or other fabricated reasons.

This is not an all inclusive list of dating scams. Scammers are constantly coming up with new ways to take advantage of people. Be vigilant.

Online dating in Canada

With a population of around 38.7 million¹, there are plenty of Canadian singles to support online dating platforms. And partly because of that, the online dating industry in Canada has seen substantial evolution and growth since its inception.

The first online dating sites in Canada started appearing in the late 1990s and early 2000s, providing Canadians a new avenue to find love or companionship. These early sites were often simple platforms where users could create a profile, search for others, and send messages. It was an era marked by slow internet connections, desktop-based access, and a somewhat limited pool of users.

In the mid-2000s, the introduction of social networking platforms like Facebook provided a significant boost to the online dating scene. More people became comfortable with the idea of meeting and connecting with people online, and the stigma surrounding online dating began to dissipate. This period also saw the introduction of more sophisticated matchmaking algorithms, which used data provided by users to suggest potential matches.

The launch of smartphones and mobile applications in late 2000s and early 2010s marked another major shift. The rise of mobile dating apps brought a new level of convenience and accessibility to online dating. For the first time, you no longer needed a computer to date online. It could be done from the palm of your hand. These apps introduced features like swiping and location-based matching, which have since become industry standards. Today, online dating is a multibillion-dollar industry, and Canada is home to a significant market share.

Despite its growth, the online dating industry in Canada has faced several challenges. These include issues around privacy and data security, with several high-profile breaches affecting user trust. Additionally, harassment and misconduct on these platforms have been major concerns. Ensuring a safe and respectful user experience continues to be a significant hurdle.

On the other hand, the Canadian online dating industry also has several strengths. Canada’s cultural diversity means a large, varied pool of singles using these services, catering to a wide range of preferences and interests. Canadians are also generally tech-savvy and open to new technologies, aiding the adoption and acceptance of online dating. Additionally, Canadian culture, yields itself to an open and vibrant dating or single life. It is very common for Canadians to date for long periods of time before settling down.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges and opportunities to the online dating industry in Canada. When social distancing measures were in place, more people turned to online platforms to seek connection. This led to a surge in user activity and innovations like video dates. Though those novelties have long since worn off, the industry will continue to evolve, adapting to new social norms and technological advancements.

Top Canadian dating apps

As we have just discussed, online dating in Canada is a relatively mature industry. Most Canadians, have likely tried a dating app or website in Canada at least once. If they haven’t tried one, they at least have familiarity with the products available.

It is possible that they used the app while living abroad or perhaps they wanted to meet other local Canadian singles. Regardless, there are a number of popular dating apps in Canada.

While it may not be as large as the United States, the Canadian market tends to be a large and viable, comparable to Australia in size. Due to that fact, most dating site and app companies will cater to the market. In terms of language, that means that they will have localized their apps into Canadian French (Québécois). Therefore, knowledge of dating apps and how to use them, is usually quite strong.

That being said, here are the top dating apps in Canada:

• Bumble – a niche dating app where Canadian women have the ability to make the first move.
• Happn – a dating app that functions based off of your daily location and who you might cross paths with in real life
• OkCupid (OKC) –
• Plenty of Fish (POF) –
• Tinder – traditionally one of the more popular dating apps in North America, definitely in terms of brand recognition

Within Canadian communities, other more niche apps may be popular such as those for Christians, Jews or Muslims.

__________________________________

¹ Canadian population: https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/canada-population/

² Love languages of Canada: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Languages_of_Canada