We’re well into winter, and spring is on the horizon – along with several major public holidays in Canada and the U.S. (and don’t forget that Daylight Savings Time starts on March 14). Even with the continued disruption of “normal” caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, employers should be prepared for staffing disruptions during these days.

Here are the holidays that are on tap for the next few months.

Statutory Holidays in Canada, Spring 2021

Good Friday, a significant holiday in the Christian religion, falls on April 2 this year. Easter Monday is on April 5. It is not a statutory holiday in any province or territory; still, employees often ask for the day off. In Quebec, non-federally regulated employers must treat either Good Friday or Easter Monday as a stat holiday, and some employers give their workers both days off.

Victoria Day, which falls on May 24, is a statutory holiday for federally regulated workers and banks; otherwise, the entitlement to a paid day off varies by region. The Holiday was first observed in the 19th century to mark the birthday of Queen Victoria. It became a federal holiday in 1901, the year Victoria died. For many in Canada, Victoria Day is seen as the unofficial start of summer. 

Upcoming Holidays in Canada

Public Holidays in the United States, Spring 2021

The majority of U.S. states will observe President’s Day on Monday, February 15. The holiday was established to celebrate the birthday of George Washington, the first U.S. president. In some states, it honors both Washington and Abraham Lincoln, who was president during the U.S. Civil War.

Next, on April 2, is Good Friday, while recognized only in certain regions, employers should be prepared for workers requesting this day off.

Finally, Memorial Day falls on May 31. A day established to remember those who have died serving in the U.S. Military. Memorial Day is seen as the unofficial start to summer in the U.S.

Upcoming Holidays in the U.S.