US Thanksgiving, November 24th

While this is a US-centric holiday, it is seen as the traditional start of the Holiday season, and it leads directly into the next big shopping date.

Black Friday, November 25th

Known for crazy deals and crowds of shoppers, Black Friday has become a global phenomenon in recent years. Canadian businesses have quickly embraced it, offering discounts through the weekend.

Small Business Saturday, November 26th

Small Business Saturday is a relatively new event that’s designed to encourage customers to support local, small businesses rather than industry giants. It’s a powerful opportunity to share your story and re-introduce your business to your community.

Cyber Monday, November 28th

Cyber Monday is traditionally one of the most important days for online shopping each year. It was created to encourage shoppers to buy online, with more and more small businesses getting involved each year.

Green Monday, December 12th

Created by eBay to mark the best sales day of the month, Green Monday occurs on the second Monday in December. It’s traditionally recognized as the last day shoppers can place an online order and guarantee it will arrive in time for the holidays.

Super Saturday, December 17th

Also known as Panic Saturday, this day marks the last Saturday before Christmas, and it’s guaranteed to be one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Given the tight turnaround for shipping, it’s a day for brick-and-mortar stores to thrive.

Hanukkah, December 18th-26th

Hannukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by the Jewish community and lasts eight days and nights. While some families will exchange gifts during this time, the holiday is more known for spending quality time with loved ones.

Christmas Eve, December 24th

Expect frantic shoppers searching for last-minute gifts on the final day to shop before Christmas Day. Many stores close early on this day to allow families to gather for the Holidays. Some stores begin their annual Boxing Day sale on this day to encourage shoppers.

Boxing Day, December 26th

This stat holiday sees shoppers flood malls and main streets searching for a bargain. It’s the traditional starting point for end-of-year sales in Canada.

Kwanzaa, December 26th-January 1st

Kwanzaa is a seven-day holiday when families gather to celebrate their African heritage. On the last day, loved ones exchange gifts, which are usually homemade rather than store-bought.

New Year’s Eve, December 31st

New Year’s Eve isn’t known as a shopping holiday, but it’s an excellent opportunity for businesses to wish their community well and send New Year’s wishes.