Red Mitten Day

History of Red Mitten Day

Red Mitten Day was initiated in 2017 by the Hudson’s Bay Company (H.B.C.) Foundation, a charity arm of H.B.C. H.B.C. is a top apparel and general merchandise retailer that has grown significantly since the 17th century. The first red mittens were white and red with a maple leaf, Canada’s national symbol. The Olympic success of 2010 in Vancouver led to the formation of this day. During the 2010 games, one of the most popular pieces of apparel the athletes wore was HBC’s red mittens featuring a Canadian maple leaf.

The red mittens were sold at $10 per pair and H.B.C. recorded large profits from the sales. As a result, the company donated one-third of its profits to the Canadian Olympic Committee. Since then, red mittens have been used as a symbol for National Red Mitten Day. H.B.C. later formed the “Red Mitten” Program to back Canadian athletes. The program has been a channel of connecting Canadians to support Olympic participants through philanthropy. For every pair of $15 C.D.N. mittens purchased at Hudson’s Bay or thebay.com, $3.90 C.D.N. goes to supporting Canadian athletes. Money raised from the “Red Mittens” helps provide Canadian Olympians and next-generation athletes with access to high-quality equipment, coaching, sports medicine, nutrition, and other resources that make up a world-class training environment.

H.B.C. has made it easier to purchase the “Red Mittens” by setting up mobile pop-up shops at select locations and having special appearances from Canadian athletes.

Red Mitten Day timeline

17th Century

H.B.C. Starts Selling Merch

Hudson's Bay Company opens as a popular general merchant retailer.

1924

World's First Winter Olympics

A winter multi-sport event called Chamonix is held in France.

2009

A New Apparel Provider

H.B.C. becomes the official outfit provider for Canadian athletes.

2010

Mittens Enter the Olympics Scene

The Canadian Olympics team wears red mittens which later become an iconic sports apparel item.

Red Mitten Day FAQs

When is Red Mitten Day?

Red Mitten Day 2026 falls on Saturday, November 21, inviting Canadians to proudly display their support for Olympic athletes. It’s a perfect weekend opportunity to gather with family and friends to celebrate national sporting achievements.

What is the Red Mitten Program?

The Red Mitten Program is a fundraising initiative by the Canadian Olympic Committee, in partnership with retailers like Hudson’s Bay. A portion of the proceeds from every pair of red mittens sold goes directly to supporting Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes, helping them train and compete.

How many pairs of red mittens have been sold?

Since its inception in 2009, the Red Mitten Program has sold millions of pairs of mittens. While exact annual figures vary, it is estimated that over 10 million pairs have been sold, generating significant funds for Canadian athletes.

Is Red Mitten Day a public holiday in Canada?

No, Red Mitten Day is not a statutory public holiday in Canada. It is an observance dedicated to celebrating national pride and supporting Olympic athletes, encouraging voluntary participation rather than a day off from work or school.

Red Mitten Day Activities

Rock those mittens

Wear your red mittens, of course! You can also purchase a pair from H.B.C. outlets or thebay.com for a loved one to help them join the celebration.

Show off your mittens

Take a photo of your mittens and post it on social media. Don't forget to use #NationalRedMittensDay and #RedMittenDay.

Tell others

Let your friends and family know about this holiday and its purpose. Encourage them to buy red mittens in support of the Olympics athletes.

5 Facts About Mittens

Mittens invented for the kitchen

Earl Mitt, an American baker, invented mittens made of leather and wool in Texas in the 1870s.

Unique insulation

In the 1980s, paper was used as an insulating material inside mittens.

A different kind of mittens

Mittens without fingertips are used for delicate work.

Mittens for hunters

Mittens with a flap located in the palm of the mitten allowed hunters to have their fingers free to fire their weapons were invented in the 1930s.

Mittens in geography

The Lower Peninsula of Michigan is nicknamed "The Mitten" because of its shape.

Why We Love Red Mitten Day

It supports athletes

A part of every sale of red mittens goes toward supporting athletes. The money helps them access resources that aid them in achieving their dreams on a global platform.

It's fun

National Red Mitten Day is about having fun. We celebrate hard-working athletes in a joyous mood.

Brings unity

National Red Mitten Day unites Canadians as they support the national Olympics team. They bring their resources and good cheer together for the love of sports.