Remembering Mississauga's Festive Spirit in the 1960s

Jingle bells, jingle bells! Merry, merry festive season! December has always been a month filled with joy, family gatherings, traditional foods and the spirit of sharing. It’s a time when people around the world are in a festive mood, with children eagerly awaiting Santa’s visit and families coming together to celebrate. In historic Mississauga, the holiday season was no exception. This special time was filled with unique customs that reflected the community's rich diversity, creating a sense of unity and warmth.

As we take a step back to the 1960s, we can explore how residents of Mississauga celebrated Christmas and New Year's Eve. Let’s transport ourselves to a time when the city was evolving, and the festive season was filled with traditions that brought people closer together.

Festive seasons in the 1960s

Recipes & Groceries. Mississauga Times, December 22, 1969 pg 16

In the 1960s, Mississauga was a growing suburb, transitioning from a quiet rural community into a bustling town. Christmas and New Year’s Eve were not just holidays, but times for reflection and celebration, where families gathered to mark the year gone by and look forward to the new one. The festive spirit was palpable as homes filled with the aroma of seasonal treats, and the air buzzed with the excitement of community events.

The Mississauga Times newspaper offers a glimpse into how Christmas was prepared during this time. The grocery stores – Dominion, Safeway, and A&P – were abuzz with shoppers stocking up for the holidays. Families would fill their carts with ingredients for holiday feasts—turkeys and fresh produce. Many households celebrated with roasted goose, sausage rolls, and savoury stuffing, and the ovens worked overtime to bake a variety of treats. A local favourite, the cherry cake, often appeared on holiday tables, alongside butter tarts and mincemeat pies. 

Christmas Goodies for those in hospital. Mississauga Times, December 22, 1969, pg 21

The shops along Hurontario Street were lined with festive offerings.  Marmac Jewellers displayed elegant gold rings, watches, and charms, making it a popular stop for those looking for special gifts. Smith & Savery Appliances offered new refrigerators, helping families prepare for the coming year in style, while Federal Furniture Ltd. advertised furniture sets perfect for hosting holiday gatherings. In the 1960s, advertisements for items like Singer sewing machines were common, as many people took pleasure in sewing their own clothes during this era.

Families could also find a Christmas tree at Pinehaven Nurseries, which became an essential in every household.

The community spirit was strong and giving was at the heart of the season. The Mississauga Times often shared heart-warming stories of local charity drives, where food, toys, and donations were sent to those in need, from hospitals to animal shelters. The sense of compassion and togetherness was evident as the festive season was not only about receiving but also about giving back.

Traditional Recipes and Holiday Meals

In many homes, the preparation of the Christmas meal was a family affair. Roasting a goose was a popular tradition, as was preparing old-fashioned bread stuffing with herbs and sausage. Sausage rolls were another favourite, often served as appetizers at family gatherings. The Mississauga Times also featured recipes for these beloved dishes, offering home cooks tips on creating the perfect holiday feast. The scent of turkey roasting and pies baking filled homes, spreading joy through their culinary creations.

One of the highlights of the season was Christmas baking. Families baked cookies such as shortbread and gingerbread men. The traditional mince pies and rich fruitcakes were also an essential of the season, often enjoyed alongside a cup of hot chocolate or wine.

Music and Church Services

Santa got the present at this party, Mississauga Times, December 22, 1969, pg 18

The role of churches in Mississauga during the Christmas season was significant. Churches became the focal point of celebrations, with choirs singing traditional carols. Douce Nuit (Silent Night) and Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes (Angels We Have Heard on High) echoed as congregants gathered for the Mass. The music resonated in the hearts of the community, connecting people to the true spirit of Christmas.

Many churches, held candlelit services, creating a serene atmosphere that filled hearts with warmth and joy. These services often included beautiful readings of the Nativity story, reminding everyone of the deeper meaning of Christmas.

The Christmas Parade and Local Events

The festive season in Mississauga was also marked by community events, with the annual Christmas parade at Lorne Park being one of the highlights. The parade was a grand affair, with floats and bands and majorettes along with clowns.  The cheerful carollers singing as they marched through the streets. Mayor Robert Speck waved from a float, bringing smiles to the faces of children and adults alike. The sense of wonder was palpable, as children marvelled at the beauty of the parade and eagerly awaited the arrival of Santa Claus.

New Year’s Eve: Then and Now

Merry Xmas and Happy New year. Missisauga Times, December 22, 1969, pg 13

As December also marked the end of the year, New Year's Eve was a time for reflection and resolution. In the 1960s, many families in Mississauga opted for a quiet, intimate celebration. After a festive meal, they would gather around the television, watching the New Year’s Eve broadcast and counting down the moments until midnight. The local community would often spend the night at home, sharing stories and memories, creating lasting bonds with loved ones. 

However, for those seeking a more social celebration, there were New Year’s Eve parties held at local venues like the Halton Country Inn, which offered elegant dinners, or the Newport Hotel, where couples could enjoy a dance for $25 per couple. As a growing town, Mississauga’s nightlife was beginning to expand, offering different ways for residents to ring in the new year.

Looking back at how Mississauga celebrated Christmas and New Year's Eve in the 1960s, it's clear that the essence of the season has always been about community, joy, and giving. The traditions of holiday meals, charity, church service, and community events have shaped the spirit of Mississauga, creating a legacy that endures today. As we approach another festive season, we are reminded of the importance of family, friendship and togetherness.

Mississauga, being a place where many people from diverse countries have settled, is home to individuals who left behind their families and homes to start anew with determination and courage. While they may feel a void within, being far from loved ones and familiar places, they remain resilient and strong, creating new connections and embracing the spirit of the season despite the challenges.

From all of us to all of you, we wish you peace, happiness, and a wonderful New Year! The magic of Christmas is timeless, and as Mississauga continues to grow and evolve, the warmth of the season and the sense of community remain a cornerstone of our city’s identity.