Provincial holidays are an integral part of Canada’s diverse and multicultural heritage. Celebrated within each province, these holidays commemorate significant local events and people that have shaped the history of each region. They offer a unique opportunity for Canadians to connect with their communities, share their cultural traditions, and celebrate their provincial identity.
From British Columbia to Newfoundland and Labrador, each province has its own public holidays reflecting its distinctive culture and history. Some of the most important provincial holidays in Canada include Family Day, celebrated in several provinces; Victoria Day, observed in most provinces; and National Aboriginal Day, celebrated in some provinces to recognize the contributions and cultures of Indigenous peoples.
Provincial holidays are typically marked by parades, festivals, and other community events that bring people together in celebration. They offer a chance to explore the local culture and traditions, sample regional foods, and enjoy performances by local artists and musicians.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding Canada’s provincial holidays is a great way to experience the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Each holiday offers a unique glimpse into Canada’s varied and vibrant heritage, providing an opportunity to learn and appreciate the diversity of this great nation.
Provincial Holidays in Canada
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories (Territory)
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut (Territory)
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island – No provincial holiday
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
- The Yukon (Territory)
Additionally, you should also see the National Holidays in Canada.
Alberta
Alberta Family Day – third Monday in February
Alberta Family Day is a statutory holiday celebrated on the third Monday of February each year. It was first introduced in 1990 as a way to give Albertans a chance to spend time with their families and enjoy the many recreational opportunities the province offers.
Family Day is a day for families to come together and participate in a variety of activities, both indoors and outdoors. Many communities organize special events and activities like ice skating, skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing. Families can also take advantage of the day off to spend time together at home, enjoying a home-cooked meal or playing board games.
Family Day is an important holiday for Albertans, and it reflects the province’s commitment to promoting family values and strengthening communities. It’s a time to celebrate family bonds and reflect on the importance of spending quality time with our loved ones.
As we celebrate Family Day in Alberta, it’s important to remember that the day is not just about having fun and relaxing but also about giving back to our communities and helping those in need. By doing so, we can help create a brighter future for all Albertans and ensure that Family Day remains an important and meaningful holiday for generations.
Heritage Day – first Monday in August
Heritage Day is a provincial holiday celebrated in Alberta on the first Monday in August. It was first observed in 1974 and has become an essential day for Albertans to celebrate and honor the province’s rich cultural heritage.
The theme of Heritage Days changes each year, focusing on different aspects of Alberta’s history and culture. Various events and activities mark the day, including parades, festivals, live music, and cultural performances. Many museums, galleries, and historic sites offer free admission on Heritage Day, allowing Albertans to explore and learn more about their heritage.
Heritage Day is an opportunity for Albertans to come together and celebrate the diversity of their province. It’s a day to honor the contributions of different cultural groups and to recognize the vital role that they have played in shaping Alberta’s history and identity.
As we celebrate Heritage Day in Alberta, it’s important to remember that our province’s cultural heritage is a living, evolving thing. It’s up to us to ensure that this heritage is preserved and passed down to future generations so that they, too, can appreciate and celebrate the richness of Alberta’s cultural identity.
British Columbia
British Columbia Day – first Monday in August
British Columbia Day is a provincial holiday celebrated on the first Monday in August in the Canadian province of British Columbia. The holiday was first observed in 1974 and was created to celebrate the history and achievements of the province.
Many communities organize special events and activities on British Columbia Day to celebrate the day. These events can include parades, fireworks, music festivals, and cultural performances. Many museums, galleries, and historical sites also offer free admission on British Columbia Day, allowing people to learn more about the province’s rich history and culture.
British Columbia Day is an opportunity for people in the province to come together and celebrate the unique beauty, diversity, and vibrancy of British Columbia. It’s a day to reflect on the many contributions that British Columbians have made to the province and the country.
As we celebrate British Columbia Day, it’s important to remember that the province’s history and culture are a source of great pride and inspiration for its residents. By celebrating British Columbia Day, we can honor this heritage and inspire future generations to continue to build a strong, prosperous, and inclusive province.
Manitoba
Civic Holiday – first Monday in August
The Civic Holiday is celebrated in Manitoba on the first Monday in August. This day allows Manitobans to come together and enjoy a day off from work or school.
While the Civic Holiday has no specific historical or cultural significance in Manitoba, it is a chance for people to celebrate their communities and enjoy the summer season. Many communities organize events such as parades, festivals, and concerts, while others take the opportunity to spend time with family and friends.
The Civic Holiday is a reminder of the importance of taking time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the things that matter most in life. It’s a time to appreciate the natural beauty of Manitoba and the many contributions that Manitobans have made to the province and Canada as a whole.
As we celebrate the Civic Holiday in Manitoba, remember the importance of community, connection, and well-being. By coming together and celebrating our shared values and experiences, we can build stronger, more resilient communities and create a brighter future for all Manitobans.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick Day – first Monday in August
New Brunswick Day is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in August in the Canadian province of New Brunswick. The holiday is an opportunity for New Brunswickers to celebrate their province’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
The origins of New Brunswick Day date back to 1976, when the province celebrated its centennial. The holiday was initially known as “New Brunswick Day Weekend” and included various events and activities to mark the occasion. In 1985, the holiday was officially recognized as New Brunswick Day and became a provincial statutory holiday.
Today, New Brunswick Day is a chance for people to come together and celebrate the many things that make the province unique. Communities across the province organize events such as parades, fireworks displays, and music festivals. In contrast, others take the opportunity to spend time with family and friends or explore the great outdoors.
As we celebrate New Brunswick Day, it’s essential to reflect on the province’s rich history, culture, and traditions and to recognize the many contributions that New Brunswickers have made to their communities and Canada as a whole. By coming together and celebrating our shared values and experiences, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities and create a brighter future for all New Brunswickers.
Newfoundland and Labrador
St Patrick’s Day – March 17
While St. Patrick’s Day is not officially recognized as a public holiday in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is still widely celebrated throughout the province. The day is an opportunity for people of Irish heritage and those who enjoy the festivities to come together and celebrate their culture and traditions.
St. Patrick’s Day has a long and rich history in Newfoundland and Labrador. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade in the province was held in St. John’s in 1829, and the tradition continues. The parade is a colorful and lively event featuring marching bands, floats, and people dressed in green.
In addition to the parade, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated with music, dancing, and traditional Irish foods such as corned beef and cabbage. Many bars and restaurants throughout the province hold St. Patrick’s Day parties, and there are often special events and concerts featuring Irish musicians and dancers.
St. Patrick’s Day is a reminder of the importance of celebrating our diverse cultures and traditions and the many contributions that different communities have made to our society. By coming together and celebrating our shared values and experiences, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities and create a brighter future for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
St George’s Day – third Monday in April
St. George’s Day is a provincial holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is celebrated on the third Monday in April each year and is named in honor of St. George, the patron saint of England.
The holiday has a long history in Newfoundland and Labrador, dating back to the early days of English settlement in the province. It is a time to celebrate the province’s English heritage and culture, and many communities hold parades, concerts, and other events to mark the occasion.
St. George’s Day is also an opportunity to celebrate the province’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. Many people take advantage of the holiday to go hiking, fishing, or camping in one of the province’s many parks and wilderness areas.
As we celebrate St. George’s Day, it’s essential to reflect on the many contributions that English culture has made to Newfoundland and Labrador and to recognize the role that it continues to play in shaping the province’s identity and traditions. By coming together and celebrating our shared values and experiences, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities and create a brighter future for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Discovery Day – third Monday in June
Discovery Day is a public holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is celebrated on the third Monday in June each year to commemorate the arrival of European explorers in the province, particularly the arrival of John Cabot on June 24, 1497.
Discovery Day is an opportunity to celebrate the province’s rich history and cultural heritage and to honor the many brave explorers who charted new courses across the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a time to reflect on the contributions of the Indigenous peoples who lived in the province long before the arrival of Europeans and to acknowledge colonization’s impact on their communities.
Many communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador hold parades, festivals, and other events to mark the occasion. These events often feature traditional music, dancing, food, and displays of art and artifacts related to the province’s history.
As we celebrate Discovery Day, it’s important to remember that history is an ongoing process of discovery and exploration. By acknowledging the past and learning from it, we can build a better future for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Let us celebrate our shared history and culture and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Memorial Day – first Monday in July
Memorial Day is a public holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is observed on the first Monday in July each year to honor the memory of the soldiers who fought and died in the First World War.
The holiday has a special significance in Newfoundland and Labrador, which suffered heavy losses during the war. The Newfoundland Regiment, a unit of the British Army, played a prominent role in the conflict, and many of its soldiers were killed or injured in battle.
Memorial Day is an opportunity to remember and tribute to these brave men and women and reflect on their sacrifices in their country’s service. It is also a time to honor the contributions of all veterans, past and present, and to show our appreciation for their service and dedication.
Many communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador hold ceremonies and events to mark the occasion, including wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, and memorial services. These events allow people to unite and show their respect and gratitude for those who have served and sacrificed for their country.
As we observe Memorial Day, let us remember the sacrifices of our veterans and their families, and let us strive to build a more peaceful and just world in their honor.
Orangeman’s Day – third Monday in July
Orangeman’s Day is a public holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is celebrated on the third Monday in July each year to commemorate the victory of Protestant King William III over Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.
The holiday has a special significance for the Orange Order, a Protestant fraternal organization that traces its roots back to the 17th century. The Orange Order played an important role in the history of Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly during British rule. Orangeman’s Day is an opportunity for members of the organization to celebrate their heritage and culture.
In many communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, Orangeman’s Day is marked by parades, picnics, and other events. These events often feature traditional music, dance, and Orange Order regalia and memorabilia displays.
It’s worth noting that Orangeman’s Day is a contentious holiday for many people in Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly those who identify as Catholic or of Irish descent. The holiday has been controversial and debated, with some arguing that it perpetuates sectarianism and division.
As we observe Orangeman’s Day, it’s important to remember that our actions and words can profoundly impact others. Let us strive to build bridges of understanding and respect between different communities and work towards a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Northwest Territories
Civic Holiday – first Monday in August
The Civic Holiday is a public holiday in the Northwest Territories of Canada. It is observed on the first Monday in August each year and is a day off for many people.
The holiday has different names across Canada, depending on the province or territory. In the Northwest Territories, it is known as the Civic Holiday, a time for people to relax and enjoy the summer weather.
Many communities throughout the Northwest Territories hold events and activities to celebrate the holiday, such as picnics, barbecues, and sports tournaments. It’s also a popular time for camping and outdoor recreation, as the weather is usually warm and sunny.
The Civic Holiday is an opportunity to take a break from our busy lives and spend time with family and friends. It’s a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the Northwest Territories and enjoy all that this wonderful region has to offer.
As we observe the Civic Holiday, remember to stay safe and care for each other. Whether exploring the great outdoors or simply relaxing at home, let’s make the most of this special day and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Nova Scotia
Civic Holiday – first Monday in August
In Nova Scotia, the first Monday in August is also known as the Civic Holiday, a public holiday. It is a day off for many people and an opportunity to enjoy the warm weather and the province’s beautiful natural surroundings.
The Civic Holiday is an occasion for people to come together and celebrate their community. Many towns and cities throughout Nova Scotia organize events and activities to mark the holiday, such as parades, fairs, and fireworks displays. It’s also a popular time for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, swimming, and boating.
The holiday has different names across Canada, depending on the province or territory. In Nova Scotia, it is known as the Civic Holiday. Still, it is sometimes referred to as Natal Day in the Halifax Regional Municipality, where it is celebrated as commemorating the city’s founding.
Whatever the name, the Civic Holiday is a time to relax, have fun, and appreciate what makes Nova Scotia such a wonderful place to live and visit. It’s a chance to spend time with family and friends, to explore the great outdoors, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
As we observe the Civic Holiday, remember to stay safe and be mindful of our environmental impact. Let’s work together to build strong and vibrant communities that we can all be proud of.
Nunavut
Nunavut Day – April 1
Nunavut Day is a public holiday in Nunavut, Canada, celebrated annually on April 1st. This day commemorates the establishment of the territory of Nunavut on April 1st, 1999, making it the newest and largest Canadian territory.
The holiday is an opportunity for Nunavummiut (residents of Nunavut) to celebrate their cultural heritage and the unique landscape of their homeland. Many communities organize events and activities to mark the occasion, such as traditional Inuit games, throat singing, drumming, and other cultural performances.
Nunavut Day is a time to reflect on the history and achievements of Nunavut and look toward the future. It is a day to celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions that make up the territory, as well as the resilience and strength of its people.
As we observe Nunavut Day, let us remember to honor the land and its people and to work together to build a better future for all. Let’s take the time to appreciate Nunavut’s vibrant culture and recognize the importance of preserving it for future generations.
Ontario
Civic Holiday – first Monday in August
The Civic Holiday is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in August in many parts of Canada. In some provinces, such as Ontario, the holiday is known as “Civic Holiday.” In contrast, in others, it goes by different names, such as “Simcoe Day” in Toronto or “Heritage Day” in Nova Scotia.
The Civic Holiday has no specific historical or cultural significance, and its observance varies from province to province. In some areas, the holiday is simply a day off for workers, while in others, it’s an occasion to celebrate local history, culture, and community.
Despite lacking a formal meaning or history, the Civic Holiday is a significant opportunity for Canadians to come together and enjoy the summer season. Many communities organize festivals, fairs, and other outdoor events to celebrate the day. Others take advantage of the day off to spend time with family and friends, vacation, or relax and enjoy the warm weather.
As we celebrate the Civic Holiday, it’s important to remember the many things that make Canada a great place to live. Whether it’s our history, culture, natural beauty, or sense of community, there is much to be proud of and grateful for. We can honor our past and celebrate our future as a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive country by coming together on the Civic Holiday.
Québec
Epiphany – January 6
In the province of Quebec, Epiphany (or “La Fête des Rois” in French) is celebrated on January 6th each year. This Christian holiday is also known as “Three Kings’ Day” or “Twelfth Night” and marks the end of the Christmas season.
Epiphany is a day to celebrate the arrival of the three wise men who brought gifts to the baby Jesus. In Quebec, it is traditional to serve a special cake called “galette des rois” or “king cake” to mark the occasion. The cake is made of puff pastry and filled with almond cream, with a hidden charm or “fève” inside. The person who finds the charm in their cake is declared the king or queen for the day and wears a paper crown.
In addition to eating king cake, many families and communities in Quebec also participate in other Epiphany traditions, such as attending church services or organizing parades and processions. It is a time to come together with loved ones and celebrate the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
As we observe Epiphany in Quebec, let us remember the significance of the holiday and the values it represents: generosity, kindness, and faith. Let’s take this opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and appreciate the simple pleasures in life, such as sharing a delicious cake and spending time together.
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday, or “Mercredi des Cendres” in French, is an essential day in the Christian calendar and is observed in the province of Quebec and around the world. It falls on the first day of Lent, fasting, prayer, and reflection leading up to Easter.
On Ash Wednesday, Catholics and other Christians attend mass and receive a cross of ashes on their forehead in the shape of a cross. The ashes are made by burning the palms from the previous year’s Palm Sunday and represent repentance and mortality.
The day is also marked by fasting and abstinence, with Catholics over 18 abstaining from meat and those between 18 and 59 fasting by eating only one full meal and two smaller meals that do not equal the full meal.
Ash Wednesday reminds us of our mortality and the need to reflect on our lives and actions. It is a time to seek forgiveness and renew your commitment to living a life of faith, love, and compassion. As we observe Ash Wednesday in Quebec, let us take this opportunity to reflect on our own lives and commit ourselves to acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others.
Ascension – forty days after easter
Ascension is an important religious holiday observed in the province of Quebec and other parts of the world forty days after Easter. It commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, as described in the New Testament.
Ascension is a public holiday in Quebec, meaning most businesses and government offices are closed. Many people attend mass or church services on this day, which may include special readings, hymns, and prayers. Some churches hold processions or other events to mark the occasion.
Ascension is an important reminder of the role of faith in our lives and our hope for a better world. It serves as a reminder of the teachings of Jesus Christ and the values of love, compassion, and forgiveness that he embodied. As we observe Ascension in Quebec, let us take this opportunity to reflect on our faith and values and commit ourselves to acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others, following the example of Jesus Christ.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day – June 24
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, or Fête nationale du Québec, is a public holiday celebrated in the province of Quebec on June 24th every year. The holiday honors the patron saint of Quebec, Saint John the Baptist, and also celebrates Quebecois culture and identity.
On Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, many people in Quebec participate in parades, fireworks, and other festivities. The Fête nationale du Québec allows Quebecers to celebrate their heritage and express pride in their identity.
The celebration of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day has a long history in Quebec, dating back to the 1830s. It has served as a symbol of resistance and cultural identity for Quebecers facing political and social challenges. Today, it is a joyful and inclusive celebration that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate Quebec’s unique culture and history.
As we observe Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day in Quebec, let us take this opportunity to celebrate the diversity and richness of Quebecois culture and to recognize the contributions of all those who have worked to build and shape this vibrant and dynamic province.
All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day, or La Toussaint, is a public holiday in the Quebec province observed on November 1st. It is a Christian holiday that honors all the saints and martyrs of the Christian faith, both known and unknown.
On All Saints’ Day, many people in Quebec attend church services and visit cemeteries to pay their respects to deceased loved ones. It is also common for families to gather for meals and spend time together, reflecting on the memories of those who have passed away.
The observance of All Saints’ Day has a long history in Christianity, dating back to the 4th century. It was initially celebrated on the first Sunday after Pentecost. Still, it was moved to November 1st to coincide with a pagan festival that celebrated the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter.
Today, All Saints’ Day, is a time to remember and honor the saints and martyrs of the Christian faith and loved ones who have passed away. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of life and is an integral part of Quebec’s cultural and religious heritage.
Immaculate Conception – December 8
The Immaculate Conception is a religious feast day observed in the province of Quebec on December 8th. It is a Christian holiday celebrating the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without sin and lived a life free from sin.
In Quebec, the Immaculate Conception is a public holiday, and many people attend church services and participate in religious processions and other events. The holiday is also celebrated in other parts of the world, including in many Catholic countries in Europe and Latin America.
The observance of the Immaculate Conception has a long history in Christianity, dating back to the early centuries of the church. The belief in the immaculate conception of Mary was formally declared a dogma of the Catholic Church by Pope Pius IX in 1854.
Today, the Immaculate Conception is vital to Quebec’s cultural and religious heritage. It is a day to celebrate the Virgin Mary and to reflect on the importance of faith, purity, and righteousness in our lives. It is also a time to come together with friends and family and enjoy the holiday season’s festive spirit.
Saskatchewan
Civic Holiday – First Monday in August
In the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, the Civic Holiday is the first Monday in August. It is a public holiday celebrated in other parts of Canada but with different names. In some provinces, such as Ontario and Manitoba, it is called the Civic Holiday, while in other provinces, it is known as Heritage Day or Natal Day.
Civic Holiday in Saskatchewan is a day for people to take a break from work and enjoy leisure time with family and friends. Many businesses and government offices are closed, and community events, parades, and other celebrations are often taking place.
The origins of Civic Holiday can be traced back to the late 19th century when the labor movement began advocating for more time off work for workers. Over time, various provinces in Canada began to adopt the idea of a mid-summer holiday, although the specific name and date varied from province to province.
Civic Holiday is essential to Saskatchewan’s cultural and social landscape today. It is a day to celebrate the province’s history, people, and achievements and to take a break from the daily routine. Many people take the opportunity to travel, visit friends and family, or relax and enjoy the beautiful Saskatchewan summer.
The Yukon
Discovery Day – third Monday in August
In the Canadian territory of Yukon, the third Monday in August is known as Discovery Day. It is a public holiday celebrating the discovery of gold in the Klondike region in 1896, which sparked a gold rush that transformed the territory and the country.
Discovery Day is an opportunity for Yukoners to reflect on the territory’s rich history and its pivotal role in Canada’s development. It is a day to celebrate the determination and resilience of those who came to the Klondike in search of fortune, as well as the First Nations and other groups who were already living in the region and had a significant impact on the outcome of the gold rush.
On Discovery Day, many communities throughout Yukon hold special events and activities to mark the occasion. These may include parades, concerts, historical reenactments, and other cultural and recreational activities. It is a day for people to come together, celebrate their shared heritage, and appreciate the territory’s natural beauty and unique character.
For many Yukoners, Discovery Day is also an opportunity to take a break from work and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Many businesses and government offices are closed, and people often take the opportunity to travel, explore the great outdoors, or relax and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.
Follow this link for the National Holidays in Canada.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canada has diverse provincial holidays with unique histories, significance, and cultural traditions. From the celebration of national events such as Canada Day and Remembrance Day to the recognition of local history and heritage through holidays like Discovery Day in Yukon and Heritage Day in Alberta, these holidays offer a chance for Canadians to reflect on their past, celebrate their present, and look forward to the future.
Whether it’s spending time with family and friends, participating in community events, or simply taking a well-deserved break from work, provincial holidays allow people to come together and celebrate their shared culture and identity. They are an important part of Canada’s social fabric and a reminder of the values and principles that make the country a great place to live.
As Canadians continue to navigate the challenges of the modern world, these holidays serve as a source of inspiration and unity, bringing people together to celebrate their common bonds and the things that make Canada unique. They are an essential part of the country’s identity and history and a testament to the resilience and diversity of its people.