When Europeans began settling in what is now Canada during the 16th century, an estimated 200,000 First Nations people (referred to as Indians) and Inuit lived there. Today, about one million people in Canada identify as First Nations, Métis (of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry), or Inuit. Though these groups make up less than 5% of the total population, Indigenous peoples account for half of the population in the Northwest Territories and a significantly larger portion in Nunavut. The Cree are the largest of the First Nations groups. Historically marginalized and pushed to the fringes of Canadian society, Indigenous peoples are reclaiming their traditions. First Nations art, including stone and bone sculpture, basket making, and carving, have become especially popular.

Canada’s rich ethnic and historical diversity means that it lacks a single national culture. While both French and English are official languages, the culture of a region often reflects the dominant language spoken there. Indigenous peoples maintain their unique cultural identities, particularly in the northern regions. Quebec’s French culture is especially distinct, known for its unique architecture, music, and cuisine. Popular dishes in French-speaking areas include poutine and traditional meat pies such as tourtières and paté à la rapure. Quebec is also a leading producer of maple syrup, with maple sugar-infused sweets being widely enjoyed across the country.

Canada has traditionally encouraged immigration to grow its population, workforce, and domestic markets. As a result, immigrants now represent about one-sixth of the total population. Over three-quarters of Canadians are affiliated with an organized religion, with recent immigration trends contributing to a rise in the number of Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. The predominant religion is Christianity.