Public Holidays in Canada 2026 – Federal, Provincial & Public Holidays
Canada celebrates a wide range of public holidays that reflect its federal structure, multicultural society, and diverse regional traditions. Each province and territory observes both national statutory holidays and additional local observances unique to its culture and history. Long weekends are commonly used for travel, with many residents exploring destinations listed in places to visit in Canada or planning staycations at the best hotels in Canada.
Overview of Public Holidays in Canada
Public holidays in Canada are a mix of federal holidays observed nationwide and provincial holidays specific to certain regions. Major national holidays include New Year’s Day, Canada Day, and Christmas, while provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia have additional regional celebrations. Most employees are entitled to a day off or extra pay when working on statutory holidays.
List of National Public Holidays in Canada (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the beginning of the new year across Canada. |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Easter Monday (Federal) | April 6 | Monday | Observed by federal government employees. |
| Victoria Day | May 18 | Monday | Celebrates Queen Victoria’s birthday and the unofficial start of summer. |
| Canada Day | July 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates Canadian Confederation with nationwide festivities. |
| Civic Holiday | August 3 | Monday | Observed in most provinces as a summer long weekend. |
| Labour Day | September 7 | Monday | Honors workers and labor movements across Canada. |
| National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30 | Wednesday | Honors survivors and victims of residential schools. |
| Thanksgiving Day | October 12 | Monday | Celebrates gratitude and harvest (except Quebec). |
| Remembrance Day | November 11 | Wednesday | Honors Canada’s military and fallen service members. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Saturday | Traditional post-Christmas holiday for shopping and leisure. |
List of National Public Holidays in Canada (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the new year; celebrated nationwide. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Easter Monday (Federal) | April 21 | Monday | Observed by federal government employees and institutions. |
| Victoria Day | May 19 | Monday | Honors Queen Victoria’s birthday; marks the start of summer celebrations. |
| Canada Day | July 1 | Tuesday | Celebrates Canada’s Confederation of 1867. |
| Civic Holiday | August 4 | Monday | Observed in most provinces as a summer long weekend. |
| Labour Day | September 1 | Monday | Honors workers and the labor movement nationwide. |
| National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30 | Tuesday | Remembers victims and survivors of residential schools. |
| Thanksgiving Day | October 13 | Monday | Day of gratitude celebrated across Canada (except Quebec). |
| Remembrance Day | November 11 | Tuesday | Honors Canadian armed forces. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Friday | Traditional post-Christmas holiday. |
Provincial and Territorial Holidays
In addition to national holidays, each province and territory in Canada observes unique statutory holidays such as Family Day, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, BC Day, Heritage Day, and Yukon Day. These regional holidays reflect local history and identity and often create extended long weekends ideal for domestic travel.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Canada’s multicultural society shapes its holiday calendar. While Christian holidays like Good Friday and Christmas are statutory, other faith-based festivals such as Eid, Diwali, and Hanukkah are widely respected in workplaces and schools. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation highlights Canada’s commitment to remembrance, inclusion, and Indigenous reconciliation.
Public Observances and Closures
On statutory holidays, government offices, banks, and schools are usually closed nationwide. Public transport operates on reduced schedules, while tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping centers often remain open. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal host major celebrations during Canada Day and Thanksgiving, making these periods popular for travel and hotel stays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Canada have in 2026?
Canada observes 10 national statutory holidays in 2026, with provinces and territories adding 1–3 additional regional holidays.
What is the biggest national holiday in Canada?
Canada Day on July 1 is the largest nationwide celebration, marking Canadian Confederation.
Is Thanksgiving a public holiday in all of Canada?
Thanksgiving is a public holiday in all provinces except Quebec, where it is observed informally.
Do provinces in Canada have different public holidays?
Yes. Provinces and territories observe additional holidays such as Family Day, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, and BC Day.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Canada reflect the nation’s cultural diversity, shared history, and regional identity. From Canada Day and Thanksgiving to provincial observances like Family Day, these holidays bring communities together and create opportunities for travel, celebration, and rest across the country.
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