This in-depth guide provides a fact-based, accurate, and comprehensive overview of Canada public holidays 2026, including national observances and provincial/territorial statutory holidays, with historical context, observance details, and workplace implications.
Why Canada’s Public Holidays Matter in 2026
Public holidays in Canada are more than days off work they reflect the country’s legal structure, cultural diversity, history, and economic rhythms. In 2026, understanding Canada public holidays is especially important for employees, employers, travelers, payroll administrators, and families planning time together.
Canada does not have a single, uniform holiday calendar. Instead, public holidays are shaped by:
- Federal law (applying to federally regulated workplaces)
- Provincial and territorial legislation
- Longstanding cultural and historical traditions
As a result, what qualifies as a statutory holiday in one province may be a regular working day in another. In 2026 when several holidays fall near weekends planning ahead is essential for:
- Workforce scheduling and payroll compliance
- Domestic and international travel
- School calendars and childcare arrangements
- Retail, tourism, and public service operations
Understanding the UK public holidays in 2026 is essential for planning time off, organising travel, aligning business operations… Continue reading>>
How Public Holidays Work in Canada
Before reviewing the Canada holiday calendar 2026, it’s important to understand the structure.
Federal vs. Provincial Authority
- The federal government sets holidays for federally regulated industries (banking, telecommunications, aviation, interprovincial transport).
- Provinces and territories determine holidays for most workers, including retail, healthcare, education, and construction.
Key Terms
- Statutory holiday: A legally mandated paid day off (or premium pay) under employment standards.
- Public holiday: A commonly observed day that may or may not be statutory.
- Optional or civic holiday: Observed by custom, not law, in some regions.
Complete List of Canada Public Holidays 2026
| Date (2026) | Day | Holiday | Regions Observed |
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Nationwide (statutory in most provinces & territories; federal holiday) |
| February 16 | Monday | Family Day / Louis Riel Day / Islander Day | Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Manitoba (as Louis Riel Day), Prince Edward Island (as Islander Day) |
| April 3 | Friday | Good Friday | Nationwide (statutory in most provinces; federal holiday; not statutory in Québec) |
| April 6 | Monday | Easter Monday | Federal government workplaces only |
| May 18 | Monday | Victoria Day | Nationwide except Québec |
| May 18 | Monday | National Patriots’ Day | Québec only |
| June 21 | Sunday | National Indigenous Peoples Day | Northwest Territories (statutory); observed nationally |
| June 24 | Wednesday | Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day | Québec only (statutory) |
| July 1 | Wednesday | Canada Day | Nationwide (statutory in all provinces & territories) |
| August 3 | Monday | Civic Holiday (various names) | Ontario, Manitoba, parts of Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador (not federally statutory) |
| September 7 | Monday | Labour Day | Nationwide (statutory in all provinces & territories) |
| September 30 | Wednesday | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Federal government & federally regulated workplaces; statutory in some territories |
| October 12 | Monday | Thanksgiving | All provinces except Prince Edward Island |
| November 11 | Wednesday | Remembrance Day | Federal government; statutory in most provinces & territories (not statutory in Ontario & Québec) |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Nationwide (statutory in most provinces & territories; federal holiday) |
- “Nationwide” does not always mean statutory everywhere employment standards legislation varies by province and territory.
- Some holidays have different names depending on the region (e.g., Civic Holiday).
- Employers should always verify obligations with provincial or territorial employment standards authorities.
Below is a chronological and regional breakdown of all major public and statutory holidays in Canada in 2026.
New Year’s Day
Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Yes (with variations)
Where It’s Observed
- Statutory in most provinces and territories
- Federally recognized holiday across Canada
- Québec recognizes it as Jour de l’An
History & Origin
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year, adopted in Canada through British and French legal traditions.
Observance & Traditions
- Family gatherings and rest
- Public fireworks in major cities
- Many businesses and government offices closed
Workplace & School Guidelines
- Statutory holiday pay or day off where required by law
- Schools and post-secondary institutions closed nationwide
2026 Notes
- Falls on a Thursday, creating potential long-weekend leave opportunities
Family Day
Date: Monday, February 16, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: No
Observed In
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Ontario
- Saskatchewan
- New Brunswick
- Manitoba (as Louis Riel Day)
History & Origin
Introduced in the 1990s and 2000s to provide a winter break between New Year’s Day and Easter.
Observance
- Family activities
- Winter festivals
- Museums and recreation centres often open
Workplace & School Guidelines
- Statutory holiday in most observing provinces
- Schools typically closed
2026 Notes
No announced legislative changes
This guide highlights 12 of the best places to go in the US in 2026, selected for their verified improvements, cultural relevance… Continue reading>>
Good Friday
Date: Friday, April 3, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Partially
Observed In
- Federally regulated workplaces
- Most provinces and territories
- Not a statutory holiday in Québec (though widely observed)
History & Origin
Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Observance
- Religious services
- Quiet reflection
- Reduced commercial activity
Workplace & School Guidelines
- Paid statutory holiday in most jurisdictions
- Schools closed nationwide
Easter Monday
Date: Monday, April 6, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: No
Observed In
- Federally regulated workplaces
- Some government offices
Notes
- Not statutory in most provinces
- Schools often closed as part of Easter break
National Patriots’ Day / National Patriots Day (Quebec)
Date: Monday, May 18, 2026
Observed As
- National Patriots’ Day – Québec
- Victoria Day – Rest of Canada
Victoria Day
Date: Monday, May 18, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Mostly
History & Origin
Honours Queen Victoria and remains the official birthday of the reigning monarch in Canada.
Observance
- Fireworks
- Opening of cottage season
- Public celebrations
Workplace & School Guidelines
- Statutory in most provinces
- Schools closed
National Indigenous Peoples Day
Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Limited
Observed In
- Northwest Territories (statutory)
- Widely celebrated nationwide
History
Recognized to honour Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions.
Observance
- Cultural festivals
- Educational programming
- Community gatherings
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (Québec)
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Québec only
History
Celebrates French-Canadian identity and heritage.
Observance
- Concerts and parades
- Fireworks
- Mandatory paid holiday in Québec
Canada Day
Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Yes
History & Origin
Marks the 1867 Confederation of Canada.
Observance
- Fireworks
- Citizenship ceremonies
- Public celebrations nationwide
Workplace & School Guidelines
- Statutory holiday in all provinces and territories
Civic Holiday
Date: Monday, August 3, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: No
Observed In
- Ontario
- Manitoba
- Parts of Atlantic Canada
Notes
- Known by different names (e.g., Simcoe Day, Terry Fox Day)
Labour Day
Date: Monday, September 7, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Yes
History
Rooted in labour union movements advocating workers’ rights.
Observance
- Parades
- End of summer activities
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Federal only
History
Established in 2021 to honour survivors of residential schools.
Observance
- Educational events
- Orange Shirt Day participation
Thanksgiving
Date: Monday, October 12, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Mostly
Observed In
- All provinces except Prince Edward Island
Observance
- Family meals
- Travel peak period
Remembrance Day
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Mixed
Observed In
- Statutory in most provinces and territories
- Not statutory in Ontario and Québec
Observance
- Ceremonies at 11:00 a.m.
- Wearing poppies
Christmas Day
Date: Friday, December 25, 2026
Nationwide Statutory Holiday: Yes
Observance
- Religious services
- Family gatherings
- Business closures
Important dates to know in 2026 play a critical role in personal, professional, and civic life… Continue reading>>
How Public Holidays Affect Businesses & Public Services
Businesses
- Mandatory holiday pay or premium rates
- Scheduling challenges in retail, healthcare, and logistics
Payroll
- Statutory holiday eligibility varies by province
- Misclassification can result in penalties
Travel
- Peak demand during long weekends
- Increased domestic tourism spending
Public Services
- Reduced government operations
- Emergency services remain operational
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays are there in Canada in 2026?
There are 5 nationwide statutory holidays, with 15–20 total public holidays depending on province or territory.
Do all provinces observe the same holidays?
No. Employment standards legislation differs by jurisdiction.
Are public holidays paid days off?
Often yes, but eligibility depends on:
Province or territory
Employment status
Hours worked before the holiday
Planning Ahead for Canada Public Holidays 2026
Understanding Canada public holidays 2026 is essential for navigating work obligations, maximizing vacation time, and respecting cultural observances. Because Canada’s holiday system is decentralized, always verify local employment standards and school calendars.
Practical tips:
- Employers should update payroll systems early
- Employees should confirm eligibility and substitute days
- Travelers should book well in advance for long weekends
- Families should align school breaks with statutory holidays
With thoughtful planning, Canada’s 2026 public holiday calendar offers valuable opportunities for rest, reflection, and connection.
Sources & References
- Government of Canada – Employment and Social Development Canada
- Provincial and Territorial Employment Standards Ministries
- Statistics Canada
- Canadian Heritage
- Indigenous Services Canada
Last Updated: January 2026
