The tradition of Canadian finance ministers wearing new shoes on the eve of the federal budget has a history dating back to at least 1955. While purely ceremonial, the selection of the finance minister’s shoes can provide hints about what the upcoming budget may contain. In recent years, finance ministers have chosen shoes that reflect their party’s priorities or values. For example, in 2015, Conservative finance minister Joe Oliver chose a pair of New Balance runners as a nod to his party’s pledge to balance the budget, while current finance minister Chrystia Freeland sourced her most recent pair from a Canadian women-led small business.
Finance Minister Jim Flaherty was known for his annual pre-budget shoe shopping excursions, often visiting local shoe stores or repair shops to select his new shoes. He was often photographed trying on or showcasing his new footwear before delivering the federal budget. Flaherty’s shoe choices sometimes included Canadian-made shoes, highlighting his support for domestic businesses. Other finance ministers, such as Ralph Goodale, Don Mazankowski, and Michael Wilson, also participated in the tradition of showing off their new shoes ahead of the budget announcement.
The practice of showcasing new shoes on the eve of the budget extends back several decades, with photos of finance ministers like John Crosbie, Jean Chretien, and Joe Clark displaying their new footwear before entering the House of Commons to present their budgets. The tradition is a unique and lighthearted way for finance ministers to engage with the media and the public, adding a touch of personality to an otherwise serious and important government event. It also provides an opportunity for finance ministers to support local businesses by highlighting Canadian-made products.
The inclusion of made-in-Canada shoes in the tradition reflects a broader trend towards supporting domestic industries and boosting the economy through government procurement and investment. By choosing Canadian-made shoes for their pre-budget photos, finance ministers can demonstrate their commitment to supporting local businesses and job creation. This symbolic gesture can also resonate with Canadians who value buying and supporting products that are made in Canada.
In addition to showcasing new shoes, finance ministers have also used other clothing items, such as T-shirts or boots, to add a personal touch to their budget announcements. These sartorial choices help to humanize the finance minister and make them more relatable to the public. By participating in this quirky tradition, finance ministers can generate media attention and public interest in the budget, drawing attention to the government’s economic priorities and policies. Overall, the tradition of wearing new shoes on the eve of the federal budget has become a beloved and enduring tradition in Canadian politics.
