In 1927, a Girl Guide leader in Regina baked and packaged cookies for her girls to sell as a simple way to raise money for their uniforms and camping equipment. Little did she know that she was starting one of Canada’s best-loved traditions - Girl Guide cookies!
Today, Girl Guide cookies are the official fundraiser of Girl Guides of Canada-Guides du Canada. All money raised through cookies sales support girls and women in Guiding by:
- Helping us provide diverse and exciting programs and activities
- Allowing girls the chance to discover new interests, learn valuable leadership skills and making lasting friendships
- Assisting girls and leaders to attend camps and events
- Providing training and support for Guiding leaders
There’s a Tasty History Behind Girl Guide Cookies!
1927 - The first Girl Guide cookies are sold in Regina, Saskatchewan.
1929 – Girl Guides of Canada begins selling cookies as the official fundraising activity for the organization.
1946 - Vanilla crème, maple cream and shortbread cookies are introduced.
1953 - Classic chocolate and vanilla cookies make their first appearance.
1960 - A special box commemorates the 50th anniversary of GGC.
1966 - The classic vanilla and chocolate cookies are back!
1967 - GGC centennial cookies are sold.
1991 - During the Gulf War, every Canadian soldier is given a box of GGC cookies upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
1992 – Former Girl Guide and Canadian astronaut Roberta Bondar juggles Girl Guide cookies in space.
1995 – Chocolatey mint cookies are sold in all provinces across Canada
2003 - All classic chocolate and vanilla and chocolatey mint cookies are produced in a nut-free and peanut-free bakery.
2009 - GGC announced and launched reduced trans fats in the chocolatey mint cookies
2009 - GGC launches first national cookie-selling rewards initiative- Cookie All Stars
2010 – A special 100th anniversary commemorative box is produced. The classic chocolate and vanilla cookies are now 0 g trans fat per serving.
2011 – Girl Guide Cookies gets its own Twitter account.
2012 – The Girl Guide cookie box gets a new look, featuring fun illustrations tracing the journey from Sparks to Rangers.
2014 – Girl Guide classic chocolate and vanilla cookies are certified as Kosher.