As 2025 approaches, staying up-to-date on Canadian statutory holidays is essential for employers and employees. These holidays affect work schedules, payroll, and vacation planning across provinces. This guide provides a comprehensive list of Canadian statutory holidays in 2025, including regional observances, FAQs, and employer tips for seamless holiday management.
Holiday Name |
Date in 2025 |
Observance |
New Year’s Day |
January 1 (Wed) |
National |
Islander Day |
February 17 (Mon) |
PEI |
Louis Riel Day |
February 17 (Mon) |
MB |
Heritage Day |
February 17 (Mon) |
NS |
Family Day |
February 17 (Mon) |
BC, AB, SK, ON, NB |
Good Friday |
April 18 (Fri) |
National except QC |
Easter Monday |
April 21 (Mon) |
QC |
Victoria Day |
May 19 (Mon) |
National except NS, NL |
National Indigenous Peoples Day |
June 21 (Sat) |
NWT |
St. Jean Baptiste Day |
June 24 (Tue) |
QC |
Canada Day |
July 1 (Tue) |
National |
Civic Holiday |
August 4 (Mon) |
AB, BC, SK, ON, MB, NB, NU |
Labour Day |
September 1 (Mon) |
National |
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation |
September 30 (Tue) |
National (federal only) |
Thanksgiving Day |
October 13 (Mon) |
National except NS, NL |
Remembrance Day |
November 11 (Tue) |
National except MB, ON, QC, NS |
Christmas Day |
December 25 (Thu) |
National |
Boxing Day |
December 26 (Fri) |
ON |
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2025
A national holiday marking the beginning of the year with celebrations and reflections.
Family Day – February 17, 2025
Observed in several provinces, Family Day emphasizes quality time with loved ones.
Louis Riel Day / Islander Day / Heritage Day – February 17, 2025
Good Friday – April 18, 2025
Observed in most provinces, marking a religious day for reflection.
Easter Monday – April 21, 2025
Recognized as a public holiday in Quebec.
Victoria Day – May 19, 2025
Celebrating Queen Victoria’s birthday, this day also signals the start of summer in Canada.
National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21, 2025
Honoring Indigenous cultures and contributions in the Northwest Territories.
St. Jean Baptiste Day – June 24, 2025
A major cultural celebration in Quebec featuring parades and public events.
Canada Day – July 1, 2025
A nationwide celebration of Canadian independence and heritage.
Civic Holiday – August 4, 2025
Observed in several provinces to celebrate local culture and community.
Labour Day – September 1, 2025
A nationwide holiday recognizing workers’ contributions.
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation – September 30, 2025
A federal observance honoring survivors of residential schools and promoting awareness.
Thanksgiving Day – October 13, 2025
A time for gratitude and family gatherings, observed in most provinces.
Remembrance Day – November 11, 2025
A solemn day to honor Canadian military veterans and their sacrifices.
Christmas Day – December 25, 2025
A joyful national celebration marked by traditions, gift-giving, and family time.
Boxing Day – December 26, 2025
Observed primarily in Ontario, associated with shopping and extended festivities.
Q1: Do statutory holidays vary by province in Canada?
Yes, while some holidays are national, others are specific to provinces or territories.
Q2: Are employees entitled to statutory holiday pay?
Entitlement depends on provincial labor laws. Employers must check local standards for compliance.
Q3: What happens if a statutory holiday falls on a weekend?
Many provinces observe the holiday on the following Monday. Verify specific provincial rules.
Q4: Can employees be required to work on a statutory holiday?
In some cases, yes. Employers must provide holiday pay or time off in lieu.
Q5: How can employers prepare for statutory holidays?
Clear communication, effective scheduling, and managing time-off requests are key to ensuring smooth operations.
Understanding Canadian statutory holidays in 2025 is essential for efficient planning and fostering a positive workplace. Employers can optimize productivity while respecting employee rights, and employees can plan vacations and celebrations in advance. Bookmark this guide for a smooth and successful year!