As we look ahead to 2024, it’s important to be aware of the public holidays observed across Canada. Whether you’re planning a trip, scheduling work, or simply eager for a break, knowing the holiday calendar can help you maximize your time off. Canada’s public holidays include national celebrations like Canada Day and Labour Day but also feature regional holidays that vary from province to province.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we’ll outline the public holidays in Canada for 2024, covering both nationwide and regional observances.
National Public Holidays in Canada 2024
These holidays are observed across the country and apply to all provinces and territories:
- New Year’s Day – Monday, January 1
The first day of the year is a nationwide holiday, marking the start of 2024 with celebrations and reflection. - Good Friday – Friday, March 29
A significant religious holiday for Christians, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It’s a statutory holiday in most provinces. - Easter Monday – Monday, April 1
While not a statutory holiday across all of Canada, Easter Monday is observed by federal employees and in some provinces. - Victoria Day – Monday, May 20
Celebrating the birthday of Queen Victoria, this holiday is often seen as the unofficial start of summer. - Canada Day – Monday, July 1
Canada Day marks the anniversary of Confederation in 1867, a day filled with national pride, fireworks, and celebrations. - Labour Day – Monday, September 2
Recognizing the achievements of workers, Labour Day is a national holiday that gives Canadians a well-deserved break as summer comes to a close. - Thanksgiving – Monday, October 14
A time to give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the year, Thanksgiving is widely celebrated with family gatherings and festive meals. - Christmas Day – Wednesday, December 25
A major holiday in Canada, Christmas is celebrated across the country with gifts, festivities, and family time. - Boxing Day – Thursday, December 26
Traditionally a day for shopping and post-Christmas relaxation, Boxing Day is a public holiday in many parts of Canada.
Regional Holidays in Canada 2024
In addition to the national holidays, provinces and territories observe regional holidays. Here are some of the key regional holidays for 2024:
- Family Day – Monday, February 19 (AB, BC, NB, ON, SK)
A holiday focused on spending time with loved ones, celebrated in several provinces on the third Monday of February. - Louis Riel Day – Monday, February 19 (Manitoba)
Honoring the legacy of Métis leader Louis Riel, this holiday is observed in Manitoba. - Islander Day – Monday, February 19 (Prince Edward Island)
PEI celebrates Islander Day, a holiday dedicated to family and community. - St. Jean Baptiste Day – Monday, June 24 (Quebec)
Celebrated in Quebec, St. Jean Baptiste Day is a day of French Canadian pride, marked with parades and festivities. - Remembrance Day – Monday, November 11 (AB, BC, NB, NL, NT, NS, NU, PE, SK, YT)
A solemn day to honor those who served in the military, observed in many provinces and territories with ceremonies and moments of silence.
Maximizing Your Time Off in 2024
For those planning vacations or long weekends, consider how public holidays align with weekends or take advantage of regional holidays. Many Canadians use Victoria Day and Labour Day weekends as bookends to their summer plans, while Christmas and New Year’s offer opportunities to extend time off into the new year.
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Canada’s public holidays in 2024 offer a mix of national pride, religious observances, and regional traditions. By planning around these dates, Canadians can enjoy a balanced mix of work and leisure throughout the year. Whether it’s a long weekend or a full week of celebrations, these holidays provide the perfect opportunity to rest, reconnect, and recharge.