Know Before You Go: Store Hours, Public Services, and Travel Tips for Victoria Day Monday
Victoria Day 2025 falls on Monday, May 19, and marks the unofficial start of summer in Canada. Celebrated in honour of Queen Victoria’s birthday, it is a statutory holiday in most provinces and territories. With fireworks, long weekends, and cottage trips on the horizon, it’s important to know what’s open and closed on this holiday to plan your day effectively.
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Here’s a province-by-province breakdown of what’s open, what’s closed, and what you can expect across Canada on Victoria Day 2025.
What is Victoria Day?
Victoria Day is a federal public holiday in Canada observed on the Monday preceding May 25. It commemorates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who ruled from 1837 to 1901. While it’s often associated with fireworks and the first warm-weather weekend of the year, it’s also a day when many government services and businesses shut down or operate on limited hours.
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Nationwide Closures on Victoria Day 2025
Across most of Canada, you can expect the following to be closed:
- Government offices (federal, provincial, municipal)
- Banks
- Post offices
- Public libraries
- Most schools and universities
- Many medical clinics and non-emergency healthcare offices
What’s Open and Closed by Province
Ontario
Closed:
- LCBO stores
- Most grocery stores and malls
- Government offices and ServiceOntario centres
Open:
- Some Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall locations
- Select garden centres and convenience stores
- Most tourist attractions (e.g., Toronto Zoo, CN Tower)
- Some malls in tourist-designated areas (e.g., Eaton Centre, Vaughan Mills)
British Columbia
Closed:
- Most grocery chains and retail stores
- ICBC offices and municipal services
Open:
- Liquor stores (private)
- Restaurants and cafés (varies by location)
- BC Ferries (holiday schedule)
Alberta
Closed:
- Provincial government offices
- Most retail stores in smaller municipalities
Open:
- West Edmonton Mall and major city malls (reduced hours)
- Most gas stations, convenience stores
- Parks, trails, and outdoor attractions
Quebec
Note: Victoria Day is not a statutory holiday in Quebec, but many businesses follow the federal schedule.
Closed:
- Federal offices and banks
- Some large retailers
Open:
- SAQ stores
- Most grocery stores and malls
- Public transport on holiday schedule
Manitoba
Closed:
- Liquor Marts (Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries)
- Most public offices and malls
Open:
- Select grocery and convenience stores
- Outdoor spaces and public parks
Nova Scotia
Closed:
- Most retail outlets
- NSLC locations
- Government services
Open:
- Some tourist attractions and local stores with special permits
- Restaurants and cafés (check local listings)
New Brunswick
Closed:
- Government buildings
- Most retail and liquor stores
Open:
- Select pharmacies
- Provincial parks and walking trails
Prince Edward Island
Closed:
- Government services
- Many small businesses and retail stores
Open:
- Restaurants and tourist attractions
- Grocery stores (varies)
Saskatchewan
Closed:
- Government and public services
- Some local stores
Open:
- Gas stations, restaurants, and major chain stores (hours may vary)
Newfoundland and Labrador
Closed:
- Most public services and retail outlets
Open:
- Select shops and restaurants (especially in tourist areas)
Territories (Yukon, NWT, Nunavut)
Closed:
- Government offices and many retail stores
Open:
- Community centres and outdoor facilities
- Some convenience and grocery stores
Public Transit Schedules
Across the country, public transit systems will operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule. Riders are encouraged to check local transit websites for specific hours and service changes.
Alcohol Sales on Victoria Day
In provinces where government-run liquor stores operate, many will be closed on May 19, 2025. However, privately owned or designated outlets may remain open with reduced hours.
Garbage and Recycling Collection
Garbage and recycling services will vary by municipality. In most cities, pickup will be delayed by one day following the holiday. Residents are encouraged to check with local waste management services.
Fireworks and Outdoor Activities
Many municipalities will host public fireworks displays on the evening of Sunday, May 18 or Monday, May 19. Parks, trails, and campgrounds will be open, but may be crowded due to the long weekend.
Final Tips for Victoria Day 2025
- Plan ahead: Many closures may affect your errands and transportation.
- Shop early: Stock up on essentials before the long weekend begins.
- Check local listings: Some regions may have unique bylaws or special events.
- Stay safe: Whether you’re on the road, attending fireworks, or enjoying a BBQ, safety first.