Canadian Souvenirs: 10 Authentic Gifts to Pack in Your Suitcases

1. Maple Delights: The Quintessential Canadian Flavour

It’s impossible to talk about Canadian souvenirs without mentioning maple. The sap extracted from the famous sugar maple can be found in a multitude of products, from traditional maple syrup to maple butter, candies and cookies. These sweet treats bring home the ambiance of a sugar shack or Quebec brunch.

• Maple syrup: There are different colors depending on when they are harvested, with darker (later in the season) or lighter shades (beginning of season), the taste being different. An amber syrup will offer a full-bodied taste, perfect on pancakes or to enhance sweet and savoury recipes.
• Maple candies: Tasty and melt-in-your-mouth, they keep easily and make excellent little gifts for friends and family.
• Maple butter: A must-have spread on warm bread for those who like it creamy and sweet.

If you’re passing through the Mauricie region, be sure to stop by a sugar shack like Cabane Chez Dany. Not only will you be able to sample the pleasures of maple, but you can also buy a variety of artisanal products direct from the source. A great opportunity to take home an authentic piece of Quebec. This one is open year round.

2. Regional Alcoholic Beverages: Microbreweries and Spirits

In Canada, and particularly in Quebec, microbrewery culture is flourishing. From the legendary hoppy IPA to the refreshing whites from Microbrasserie du Presbytère in Saint-Stanislas, there’s something for everyone. Quebec beers are often sold in bottles or cans with original labels, making each one a unique and tasty souvenir. Some brewers like to play with local ingredients, such as northern berries or even boreal spices.

Along with beer, Quebec is also renowned for the production of gin, spirits and brandies made from northern grains and berries. If you’d like to make some new discoveries, visit Distillerie Grand Dérangement, located less than an hour from Montreal, in the Lanaudière region. You can taste exclusive spirits on site, get to know the craftsmen and learn all about their know-how.

Yet another typically Canadian product that deserves your full attention is icewine. Made from frozen harvested grapes, it offers a delicate sweetness and refinement appreciated by dessert wine lovers. Presented in an elegant bottle, this prestigious nectar is sure to impress your dinner guests.

3. Objects Bearing the Effigy of Canada: Symbols and Traditions

For those who prefer more traditional souvenirs, you’ll find a multitude of typical items featuring the maple leaf, the beaver, Canada’s emblematic animal, or the moose. From simple key-holders to flags, T-shirts and mugs, you’ll easily find what you’re looking for. Many of these products are sold in tourist boutiques or souvenir stores in national parks or major attractions, such as the Musée POP museum in Trois-Rivières.

Younger ones might love a teddy bear or a plush moose, a great way to bring home a little touch of northern adventure from your family trip to Quebec. These are smile-inducing options that, above all, create lasting memories for the whole family. They’re also practical if you have limited space in your luggage but still want to bring back a meaningful symbol of Canada.

4. The Famous Field Hockey Jersey: A National Passion

Ice hockey is much more than just a sport in Canada: it’s a true institution, a national passion. For many Quebecers, there’s nothing like cheering on their favourite team during the winter season. If you’re looking to bring home a truly iconic souvenir, treat yourself to an authentic jersey from a legendary team like the Montreal Canadiens.

On top of being comfortable, it’ll help you maintain a strong connection to the electrifying atmosphere of Canadian arenas.

5. Unique Indigenous Products: Ethical and Cultural Support

Bringing home handcrafted items made by Canada’s Indigenous communities is an act of ethical and cultural support. Jewellery, traditional leather moccasins, dreamcatchers or Inuit soapstone carvings are all souvenirs charged with meaning and beauty. In First Nations cultures, these creations often reflect environmentally respectful practices and the transmission of ancestral knowledge.

Before buying, take a moment to learn about the origin of the products and the artisan or cooperative who makes them. That way, you can be certain you’re supporting local projects and promoting responsible tourism.

6. Gourmet Products: A Wealth of Local Flavours

Quebec is brimming with gourmet food products sure to delight epicureans and culinary explorers alike. Much more than simple souvenirs, these products reflect the region’s diverse and creative terroir. Here are some must-visit addresses in the Authentic Quebec region:

• Au Jardin des noix offers a selection of local nuts, both raw and prepared, perfect for appetizers or to enhance your recipes.
• Marcheur des bois specializes in edible forest products. This producer will introduce you to the unique flavours of the Canadian forest, such as dune pepper, sweet gale and an assortment of dried mushrooms.
• The store at Abbey Val Notre-Dame offers products made by monks, such as caramels, chocolates, teas and herbal infusions with boreal essences. A visit that combines cultural discovery and gourmet pleasure.
• La Terre des Bisons showcases products from carefully raised bison. Here you’ll find terrines, sausages and even bison-skin clothing and accessories.

Whether you prefer sweet or savoury, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to bringing home an authentic piece of Quebec gastronomy. Don’t hesitate to chat with the producers on site to learn about ingredient origins and discover the best ways to enjoy them.

7. Local Woodcraft: A Reflection of Canadian Nature

Wood is a noble and ubiquitous material in Canada. Quebec’s forests have always inspired talented artisans who create both practical and decorative objects. You’ll find, for example, kitchen utensils, engraved cutting boards and beautiful animal figurines depicting moose, beaver or black bear.

The appeal of local wood lies in the variety of species such as maple, birch and pine, each with its own unique grain and story. Giving or buying an object made from local wood is not only an aesthetic souvenir, but also a way of supporting traditional, sustainable craftsmanship.

8. Canadian Books and Artwork: Plunge into Local Culture

Looking for a more cultural souvenir? Immerse yourself in Canada’s literary and artistic atmosphere with a selection of books and artworks. In terms of literature, you can discover works by Quebec or Canadian authors such as Michel Tremblay, Margaret Atwood or Elise Gravel, who writes beautiful children’s books.

Local art galleries are just as inspiring. They feature paintings, lithographs and artistic postcards that capture the wild beauty of Canadian lakes, forests and cities. Whether it’s a small, easy-to-carry piece or a larger reproduction, you’ll bring home the emotions inspired by your experience discovering the region.

9. Natural Cosmetics: Softness and Boreal Scents

For an original and practical souvenir, opt for natural cosmetics made locally from eco-responsible, chemical-free ingredients. Lip balms, handcrafted soaps, body creams with delicate scents of cranberry, pine or even lavender… all products that will bring a touch of well-being to your daily life, while reminding you of the soothing scent of Quebec’s forests.

10. Quebec License Plate: A Nod to Canadian Roads

During your holidays in Canada, you might have noticed Quebec’s famous license plate featuring the slogan “Je me souviens” (“I remember”). It’s a powerful symbol of Quebec identity and a testament to Canada’s francophone history. Bringing home a plate (officially taken out of circulation, of course) or a decorative reproduction can serve as a fun nod to your adventures on Canadian roads.

Hanging on the wall of your garage, your office or even in a playroom, this plaque will remind you of the kilometres travelled across our beautiful province.

Where to Find These Treasures: Practical Tips

Producer Shops and Markets

Many producer shops welcome you to taste and buy directly on-site. This is often a chance to interact with artisans, learn about their craft, and choose products whose stories you know firsthand. Farmers’ markets, particularly vibrant in summer and autumn, feature various stalls run by local producers, cheesemakers, butchers and artisans.

Authentic Quebec Member Establishments

Consult our of directory of businesses that, each in their own way, promote authentic, sustainable tourism. You can rely on them to find high-quality products and visit places where hospitality and sharing are core values. Many establishments also offer tastings, an excellent way to validate your choices before packing them in your luggage.

Souvenir Shops and Information Centres

Finally, in downtown areas or near tourist sites, you’ll find specialized shops selling Canadian souvenirs. These stores offer maple leaf-themed items, national colours, and various books on Quebec, travel guides and cookbooks to keep the experience alive once you’re back home.

Practical tips for bringing souvenirs back from Canada:

• Check customs limits allowed by your country of residence, especially for alcohol.
• Carefully wrap fragile items in your luggage.
• Opt for local and eco-friendly products to support sustainable tourism.

Bring Home the Magic of Canada

By thoughtfully selecting your souvenirs, you’ll extend the joy of your Canadian journey. Whether it’s maple syrup to sweeten your breakfasts, a hockey jersey to showcase your passion for the sport, boreal spices to impress in the kitchen or a Quebec license plate to decorate your walls, each object will tell the story of your trip.

Take the time to explore the flavours, colours and stories behind each item: that’s how you will fully experience Quebec authenticity.

Get your suitcase and your taste buds ready, because Canada isn’t just about beautiful landscapes: it’s also about delicious products, creations full of character and incomparable Quebec hospitality. Enjoy your shopping and safe travels!