Public holidays in Canada

Non-movable holidays

Non-statutory holidays are written in gray.

Moving Holidays in Canada

Victoria Day

Canada was a British colony and still belongs to the Commonwealth of Nations. The Monday before 25 May is considered a public and non-working holiday throughout Canada in honour of Queen Victoria (24 May 1819). By the way, Canada is the only country that does not celebrate the birthday of the current Queen, but of the kings who also proclaimed the British Empire.

Victoria Day is not celebrated throughout the country on this Monday, but an equally regional day, which varies from region to region. While the British Queen is honoured in Ontario, the neighbouring state of Quebec celebrates National Patriots Day. Thus, the whole of Canada has a public holiday on this day, while at the same time one is careful to limit the number of different days.

The occasion may vary regionally, but the celebrations are less so. Throughout the country, parades, concerts and horse shows are held on Victoria Day. Families gather for a picnic in the park in view of the warmer season. Schools. Post offices, libraries and government offices are closed throughout the country, although many shops are still open at least by the hour. Tourists should avoid longer distances on this weekend, as the long weekend means that many Canadians are on the road, the roads are congested and the ferries are fully booked.