DECEMBER’S BIRTH FLOWER IS…holly. Given the influence of Christmas in Canadian culture, it’s not surprising that holly’s bright red berries and glossy green leaves – plus its ability to thrive in harsh winter conditions like ours – make it a festive and enduring symbol of the season.
NATIONAL MONTH: The Unofficial Month of Celebrations!
In Canada, December is associated with many cultural celebrations, religious observances, winter festivities and national public holidays including (but not limited to):
- Hanukkah (December 14th 2025 – 8 nights; — date moves yearly.
- Winter Solstice (December 21st)
- Christmas Day (December 25);
- Boxing Day (December 26);
- Kwanzaa (December 26 to January 1); and
- New Year’s Eve (December 31).
“December’s wintry breath is already clouding the pond, frosting the pane, obscuring summer’s memory…”
– John Geddes
Happy Birthday
Montreal, Quebec
(December 18, 1833)
In Season This Month:
- Similar to November, with many fall fruits and vegetables still available from storage
- Some greenhouse-grown produce may still be available, such as lettuce, tomatoes and herbs
What to do in your garden this month:
- Reflect on the past growing season and make notes for improvements or changes for the upcoming year
- Enjoy garden-related activities indoors, such as seed starting and reading gardening books
- Check out gardening workshops, webinars, or seminars to educate yourself and learn new skills during
the off-season
ANIMAL SPOTLIGHT:
Reindeer/Caribou
(Rangifer tarandus))
In December, this deer species is often associated with the holiday season, especially in Canada’s northern regions,
where they play a significant role in Indigenous cultures and traditions.
