How do Canadians greet each other? [2024 ] (2024)

Let’s crack open the secret sauce to the warm, friendly vibes of Maple Leaf Country! Yep, we’re talking about the top ways Canadians greet each other—no secret handshakes, just straightforward, inclusive, and super nice ways to say ‘Hello, buddy! ‘

Each one of these greetings is like a mini-story, full of genuine connection, positivity, and, of course, that oh-so-great Canadian friendliness.

So, whether you’re a proud Canadian looking to celebrate your roots or an enthusiastic globe-trotter wanting to embrace Canadian culture, sit back and read on.

A simple handshake, friendly nod, or easy ‘hello’ is a common way Canadians greet each other amidst the chummy crowd.

Overall, Canadian greetings are as warm as a fresh stack of pancakes dripping with maple syrup.

Interesting fact? ‘Eh’, an iconic term, often decorates their lively sentences like a cherry on top. Sometimes you’ll hear a charming ‘How’s it going? ‘ or a homely ‘Nice to see you.”

So when in Canada, greet like a local, eh?

Just a Friendly ‘Hello!’

Ever strolled into a café in Montreal, or maybe hit the snowy streets of Toronto, and been hit with the friendliest ‘Hello’ from a stranger? That’s an essential part of the Canucks spirit—a casual and chill greeting that mirrors the Canadians’ friendly vibes.

They love to keep it approachable and sincere, and they will often sprinkle their conversation with delightful anecdotes and laughter. Its simplicity and casual essence make it an effortless way to establish an immediate connection.

A culture where folks can casually chat with a new pal or even holler a ‘Hello!’ across a crowded street! Now, isn’t that just awesome?

The Warm ‘What’s Up?’

Canadians are known for their light-hearted approach, taking day-to-day life with a huge dollop of positivity. The ‘What’s Up? ‘ embodies all that in a neat package.

It’s catchy and jaunty, and one could say it almost pulls you into the groove of things! Picture yourself sauntering through the meandering walking trails of Vancouver when a friendly passerby greets you with a bubbly ‘What’s Up? ‘.

That’s exactly how Canucks use this phrase: to uplift, engage, and encourage a sense of community bonding. For them, it’s an invitation to share a moment, a thought, or even a light-hearted story.

Firm Yet Friendly Handshakes

Canadians love their handshakes. It’s a greeting of reassurance, communicating camaraderie and mutual respect in one swift interaction.

A handshake isn’t just a greeting; it’s also like a non-verbal conversation. A handshake lets you exchange greetings, express sympathy, celebrate victories, or even seal a deal.

And the best part is that it blurs the boundary between strangers and friends while fostering a sense of shared community.

A Polite Nod

Have you ever experienced the joy of non-verbal communication that speaks volumes? Canadians totally nail it with a greeting that’s as quiet as a feather falling in the forest—yep, a polite nod!

It’s a part of the Canucks belief in tolerance and empathy—an understanding nod that embraces and validates the other person’s presence. It breaks down barriers, welcoming individuals from all walks of life into the fold.

In a world that can sometimes rush by, this nod is a refreshing pause that radiates an aura of genuine goodwill.

A Cosy Hug

Ever been bundled up in a warm coat on a cold day? That’s what a Canucks hug feels like—safe, comforting, and as inviting as a roaring fireplace.

This non-verbal greeting is a beloved part of the Canadian social tapestry, a gesture of acceptance and camaraderie that melts away the icy trappings of formality. Why are these cosy hugs one of the top Canadian greetings? That’s easy!

These hugs are like opening a sincere, heartfelt conversation without uttering a single word. It’s more than just a physical connection; it’s an emotional bond that resonates with the love for fellow humans so intrinsic to the Canadian ethos.

“Hey, how’s it going?”

The charm of ‘Hey, how’s it going? ‘ lies in its dual role: a casual salutation as well as an invitation to share an experience, a thought, or even a hearty laugh. The beauty of this phrase is its instant truth serum effect.

It promotes open, sincere conversations, a sharing of life’s ups and downs, and, above all, a chance to strengthen the bonds of community. After all, nothing defines the Canucks spirit more than their love for congenial camaraderie.

Cheek Kissing

A kiss on the cheek is a sweet, subtle way to express solidarity, friendship, and sometimes, depending on the company, even a bit of flirtation.

A signature mix of European tradition and Canadian charm, this cheeky greeting is a hit across all the provinces.

For starters, this greeting goes straight to the heart—literally and metaphorically! It ticks the essential boxes: it’s personal, intimate, and yet casual enough for social occasions.

Who wouldn’t love that combo? And the best part? A cheek kiss transcends age and gender, bringing a sense of warmth and community bonding so characteristic of the Canucks culture.

High-Fives and Fist Bumps

The high-five or a hearty fist bump is every Canuck’s go-to greeting. High-fives are an explosion of joy, a celebration of every little victory and each moment of friendship.

Canadians, in their effortlessly charming way, have turned a simple high-five into a gesture that’s utterly infectious. But hey, that’s not all!

The equally enthusiastic fist bump carries a subtle tone of respect and understanding. A quick fist pump can express a sense of reassurance, a silent cheer, or a nod of acknowledgment.