When is Easter 2026 in Canada?
Easter Sunday falls on April 5, 2026. The Paschal Full Moon (the first full moon after the spring equinox) determines the holiday dates for Easter in Canada.
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026
- Easter Monday: April 6, 2026
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Easter Statutory Holidays by Province (2026)
Good Friday is a statutory holiday, while Easter Monday (April 6) is primarily for federal and Quebec employees.
| Date | Holiday | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, April 3 | Good Friday | Statutory: All provinces (except Quebec, where it’s a choice) |
| Monday, April 6 | Easter Monday | Statutory: Quebec & Federal employees only |
Most businesses across Canada, including retail shops and grocery stores, close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
Note for Alberta: According to the Canada Labour Code, federal employees get both days. However, in Alberta, Easter Monday is a “non-statutory general holiday,” and some employers may recognize it as an optional general holiday. If you live in Alberta, check with your employer to see if they observe it.
School Easter Holidays: What Parents Need to Know
Public and private schools in Canada close on Good Friday. In most provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba, schools also close on Easter Monday, giving students a four-day long weekend.
💡 Quick Tip for Parents: Since schools close for four days, local community centers and YMCAs often host “Easter Day Camps” on Easter Monday for parents who have to work. Registration usually opens in early February, so book early!
How Do Canadians Celebrate Easter?
While rooted in Christian tradition (observed by 53.3% of Canadians), Easter is a major secular event focusing on the “rebirth” of spring. Easter in Canada is a time of joy and celebration that brings families and communities together.
Easter Traditions
While Christians attend church on Easter, it has become more than a religious holiday. Easter in Canada has become an integral part of the culture. Some common Easter traditions include spending time with family, eating special food, and Easter egg hunts.
The Traditional Easter in Canada Feast
Families gather to share a traditional meal during the Easter holiday in Canada. Traditional menus feature glazed ham, roast lamb, or turkey. It’s a special occasion, like Thanksgiving or Christmas, to celebrate and spend time with loved ones.
Decorating Eggs and Easter Egg Hunts
Decorating hard-boiled eggs with cold dye is another fun Easter tradition for the whole family. The eggs represent new life and the rebirth of nature after winter. Easter egg hunts are a fun tradition when children search for chocolate eggs hidden by the “Easter Bunny.”
After the hunt, people enjoy treats and spend time together. It’s a fun way to celebrate Easter in Canada and enjoy springtime with friends and family!
Giving Gifts During Easter In Canada
Exchanging gifts on Easter is a special tradition in Canada. It’s a way for people to show love and appreciation. Families and friends often give each other small gifts such as chocolates, candies, or small toys. Sometimes, people give Easter-themed decorated eggs or bunny-shaped items to celebrate the holiday and spread happiness.
Major Events for Easter in Canada 2026
No matter where you live, you can be sure that an Easter celebration is happening near you. These are just some of the Easter events taking place in Canada.
Toronto: The Beaches Easter Parade (April 5)
The Toronto Beaches Easter Parade is one of the world’s longest-running parades, attracting over 50,000 spectators annually. The parade showcases the creativity and community spirit of businesses and organizations within the area.
This go-to event features eye-catching floats, marching bands, and performances, symbolizing local pride and unity. While the parade is the main attraction, other events include the exciting Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt for the kids!
Vancouver: The Big Easter Run (April 4)
The Big Easter Run happens every year at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver, British Columbia. It’s a fun event where people dress up in festive costumes and run along Vancouver’s scenic waterfront. Anyone can join, no matter their age or fitness level. You can even bring your dog on a leash or push a stroller.
The event includes races, Easter egg hunts, and prizes for all participants. It’s a great way to celebrate Easter with friends and family!
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Calgary: Easter Eggstravaganza (April 3 -6)
If you’re in Calgary, get to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo for the annual Easter Eggstravaganza! This event features family-friendly games and activities, as well as opportunities to explore and learn about zoo animals and the world. The Easter Eggstravaganza is free with admission to the Calgary Zoo.
The Calgary Zoo is located in the heart of Inglewood, a vibrant and historic community known for its newcomer-friendly atmosphere. If you’re curious about this area or other family-oriented parts of the city, explore our guide on the Best Calgary Neighbourhoods for Newcomers.
Final Thoughts
While Easter is a religious holiday, it’s one that people from all backgrounds can celebrate. The Easter holiday in Canada is a time of joy and celebration that brings families and communities together. Whether you are attending your first community egg hunt, sharing a festive dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet Monday off, we hope this guide helps you feel at home during your first Canadian spring!
📅 Missed the February Long Weekend? Many newcomers are surprised to learn that not every province celebrates the same holidays in February. Make sure you’re prepared for the next one by reading: Is Family Day a Statutory Holiday in Canada? Provinces, Pay Rules & Closures.
FAQs About Easter in Canada
Most grocery stores, LCBO/Beer Stores, and malls are closed on Easter Sunday (April 5), though some pharmacies and convenience stores remain open. Stock up on essentials on Saturday!
Only if you are a federal employee or work in Quebec, in other provinces, it is a standard working day unless your specific employment contract states otherwise.
Yes. All public and private schools in Canada are closed on Good Friday (April 3, 2026). In most provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba, schools are also closed on Easter Monday (April 6, 2026), giving students a four-day long weekend.
It is the first full moon following the Spring Equinox. It determines the date of Easter Sunday, which always falls on the first Sunday after the full moon.
Statutory holidays in Canada — often called “stat holidays” — are official public holidays that give many workers a paid day off and create long weekends throughout the year. For newcomers, these holidays are more than a break from work: they’re an opportunity to integrate into Canadian culture, meet locals, and explore your community. Knowing when these holidays fall in 2026 helps you plan travel and social activities.
Participating in these holidays can help newcomers:
- Learn Canadian traditions and cultural practices
- Meet neighbours and make friends through community events
- Practice English or French in real-life social settings
- Explore local attractions and festivals
If you’re planning a holiday trip or moving to a new province, understanding housing options is key. Check out our guides on types of housing in Canada and finding short-term rentals to prepare for your stay.
What is a Statutory Holiday in Canada?
A statutory holiday is a legally recognized holiday in Canada on which many employees receive a day off with pay. On these days, many businesses, banks, post offices, and government services close.
In Canada, statutory holidays are governed by provincial employment standards. Depending on the province or territory, Canadians observe between 9 and 12 statutory holidays each year, resulting in varying holiday entitlements. For example, based on the Ontario Employment Standards Act, there are nine public holidays, while the British Columbia Employment Standards Act identifies eleven.
Holiday pay rules and eligibility vary by province, so check your local employment standards act for exact requirements.
How Statutory Holidays are Observed?
- If a holiday falls on a non-working day (such as Saturday or Sunday), employees are generally entitled to a holiday on the next working day that immediately follows the holiday.
- Employers may also provide an alternate day off or extra pay, depending on provincial regulations.
- Rules vary by province, so newcomers should check provincial employment standards or their Human Resources department.
💡 Tip: Understanding how holidays are observed helps you plan long weekends, vacations, and social activities effectively.
National Statutory Holidays (2026)
| HOLIDAY | DATE |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day: First day of the calendar year | Jan 1, Thurs |
| Good Friday: Christian holiday before Easter Sunday | Apr 3, Fri |
| Victoria Day: Honours the monarch’s birthday; starts unofficial summer | May 18, Mon |
| Canada Day: Celebrates Canada’s confederation (1867) | Jul 1, Wed |
| Labour Day: Recognizes workers’ contributions | Sept 7, Mon |
| Thanksgiving: Gives thanks for the harvest and blessings | Oct 12, Mon |
| Remembrance Day: Honours military veterans | Nov 11, Wed |
| Christmas Day: Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus; widely celebrated | Dec 25, Fri |
| Boxing Day: Celebratory day after Christmas | Dec 26, Sat |
💡 Note: Some holidays like Remembrance Day and Boxing Day are statutory in some provinces but not all.
Provincial and Territorial Statutory Holidays (2026)
In addition to the national holidays, many provinces and territories observe additional statutory holidays or celebrate existing ones under unique names:
Family Day & Variations (Third Monday in February)
Date: Mon, Feb 16, 2026
- Family Day: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan
- Louis Riel Day: Manitoba
- Islander Day: Prince Edward Island
- Heritage Day: Nova Scotia
Other Provincial Holidays
| HOLIDAY | DATE (2026) | WHERE OBSERVED |
|---|---|---|
| St. Patrick’s Day | Mar 17 | *Newfoundland & Labrador |
| Easter Monday | Apr 6, Mon | Government offices and some provinces/territories |
| British Columbia Day | Aug 3, Mon | British Columbia |
| Saskatchewan Day | Aug 3, Mon | Saskatchewan |
| Discovery Day | Aug 17, Mon | Yukon |
| National Indigenous Peoples Day | Jun 21, Sun | Yukon |
| National Day for Truth & Reconciliation | Sep 30, Wed | British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut |
| Nunvavut Day | Jul 9, Thurs | Nunavut |
*St. Patrick’s Day is an official public holiday in Newfoundland & Labrador. However, it’s a day of work and school in the rest of Canada. Discover more about celebrations in our guide, St. Patrick’s Day Guide for Newcomers.
📍 Always confirm local statutory holidays and pay entitlements with your provincial government.
Long Weekends in 2026
Statutory holidays often create long weekends, perfect for exploring Canada and socializing:
- Family Day weekend (Feb 16–17) ❄️ – Winter festivals, sports, skating
- Victoria Day weekend (May 16–18) 🎆 – Fireworks, outdoor events, community parades.
- Canada Day mid-week options (Jul 1)🍁 – Concerts, parades, fireworks; potential extended breaks.
- Labour Day weekend (Sep 5–7) ☀️ – End-of-summer trips, fall festivals, outdoor recreation.
- Thanksgiving weekend (Oct 10–12) 🍂 – Community dinners, volunteering, fall getaways
💡 Tip for newcomers: Long weekends are ideal to explore local culture, meet neighbours, and experience seasonal Canadian activities.
Tips for Newcomers: Engage with Canadian Holidays
- 1. Join Community Events: Festivals, parades, and cultural gatherings are great ways to meet locals.
- 2. Volunteer: Many holiday events need volunteers, providing opportunities to connect and contribute.
- 3. Try Canadian Traditions: Sample holiday foods or participate in seasonal activities.
- 4. Plan Outdoor Activities: Skating, hiking, cycling, and beach visits are common holiday activities.
- 5. Connect with Other Newcomers: Community centers, clubs, or local organizations often host holiday events, specifically for newcomers.
- 6. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of cultural or religious practices while celebrating or attending events.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway, a move to a new city, or securing your first rental in Canada, having the right resources can make the process easier. Our Rental Application Guide will help you get started with confidence!
FAQs
A statutory holiday (or “stat holiday”) is a legally recognized public holiday. Employees usually receive a day off with pay, and many businesses and government offices close. Depending on the province or territory, Canadians observe between 9 and 12 statutory holidays each year, which means holiday entitlements can vary based on where you live.
Employees are generally entitled to a holiday on their next working day immediately following the holiday, ensuring they still receive their paid day off.
No. Some holidays, like New Year’s Day and Canada Day, are national, while others, such as Family Day or St. Jean Baptiste Day, are provincial-specific.
Most full-time employees receive holiday pay, but rules vary by province and employer. Part-time or casual workers may have different entitlements.
Check your provincial government website.
No, March Break is not a statutory holiday. It is a school holiday that most provinces observe. For more information, see our guide, March Break in Canada (2026): Dates & Family Ideas for Newcomers.
Statutory holidays in Canada are not just days off — they are opportunities for newcomers to engage with Canadian culture, explore communities, and build social connections. By attending events, volunteering, and experiencing traditions, newcomers can feel more connected and at home in Canada.
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Final Thoughts:
Statutory holidays in Canada are not just days off — they are opportunities for newcomers to engage with Canadian culture, explore communities, and build social connections. By attending events, volunteering, and experiencing traditions, newcomers can feel more connected and at home in Canada.
🏠 Searching for your new rental in Canada? Check out Rentals for Newcomers, explore available options and secure the right place for you!