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The arrival of spring is one of the most anticipated times of the year for Canadians. As winter loosens its cold grip, Canadians get outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather. Spring also brings an exciting holiday with it, Easter in Canada! While many Canadians celebrate the Christian religious roots of Easter, they also celebrate the arrival of spring by spending time with family and friends during this holiday. For newcomers from non-Christian countries, Easter also offers celebrations and traditions, like parades and Easter egg hunts that you can experience. Discover more about Easter in Canada and how to embrace the excitement, and the season’s joys.

When is Easter in Canada?

Easter 2024 will be observed on Sunday, March 31. The holiday lasts a full weekend, with the main celebration falling on Sunday. While Sunday is the main Easter holiday, other days also hold significance. Good Friday is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday and Easter Monday marks the second day of Easter.

Easter, The Spring Equinox, and The Moon

The dates for Easter change every year. Which day Easter falls on depends on the paschal full Moon. The paschal full Moon is the first full Moon that immediately follows the spring equinox. The first Sunday after the paschal full Moon is the date for Easter that year.

Is Easter in Canada a Statutory Holiday?

Good Friday is generally a statutory holiday while Easter Monday is not. Good Friday is a federal statutory holiday, meaning all federally regulated workplaces observe it.

Is Easter Monday a Holiday in Canada?

Easter Monday is a typical working day in most provinces and territories across Canada. However, there are some exceptions such as in Alberta where employers might recognize Easter Monday as an optional general holiday.

How Do Canadians Celebrate Easter Today?

While Easter is a religious holiday, it has become one that all Canadians from diverse backgrounds celebrate. Easter in Canada is a time of joy and celebration that brings families and communities together. 

During the Easter weekend, all parts of the country host fun events like parades and Easter egg hunts. No matter which part of Canada you find yourself in, you can be sure that an Easter celebration is happening near you. Here are some of the Easter events and festivals happening around Canada.

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https://www.prepareforcanada.com/after-you-arrive/living-in-canada/statutory-holidays-in-canada-guide-for-newcomers

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Beaches Easter Weekend Celebration – Toronto, Ontario

March 29 – 31, 2024

The Toronto Beaches Easter Parade is a beloved tradition in the city, drawing thousands of spectators. The parade showcases the creativity and community spirit of businesses and organizations within the area. Featuring eye-catching floats, marching bands, and performances, the parade symbolizes local pride and unity.

While the parade is the main attraction, there are other events. The Beaches Easter Weekend Celebration also hosts an Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt on Good Friday. Both the parade and the scavenger hunt are great opportunities for families to spend together. Overall, this event is a great addition to Easter in Canada.

Big Easter Run – Vancouver, British Columbia

March 30th, 2024

The Big Fun Run Series hosts the Big Easter Run every year. The event takes place at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver. The Big Easter Run is a fun event where people dress up in festive costumes and run along Vancouver’s scenic waterfront. Anyone can participate, no matter their age or fitness level. You can even bring your dog on a leash or push a stroller.

There are many fun things to do at the Big Easter Run. The event includes races, Easter egg hunts, and prizes for all participants. It’s a great way to celebrate Easter with your friends and family!

Calgary 25K Easter Egg Hunt & Spring Show – Calgary

March 30th, 2024

National Runs is hosting the first-ever 25K Easter Egg Hunt in Calgary, Alberta. This egg hunt is open to all ages and involves searching for 25,000 candy-filled eggs over the Easter Long Weekend. The egg hunts are divided by age categories with a set amount of time to conduct the hunt. Along with activities like meeting the Easter Bunny and games and crafts, this event promises to be an exciting family event for all.

Easter Traditions in Canada

Easter in Canada has become an integral part of Canadian culture. While Christians attend church on Easter, it has become more than a religious holiday. Canadians from diverse backgrounds and beliefs celebrate Easter to share the holiday spirit and bring joy to their communities. Some common Easter traditions in Canada include spending time with family, eating special food, and having Easter egg hunts.

Family Gatherings

Easter in Canada is when families gather to share a delicious meal and enjoy each other’s company. They might have a big feast with dishes like ham or turkey. It’s a special occasion similar to Thanksgiving or Christmas, where everyone comes together 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 where people, especially kids, search for hidden eggs which are generally filled with sweets.

Hundreds of kids line up for a massive Easter egg hunt.
Hundreds of kids line up for a massive Easter egg hunt.

Once the hunt begins, everyone looks for the eggs. When someone finds one, they put it in their basket. The goal is to find as many eggs as possible! After the hunt, people often enjoy treats and spend time together. It’s a fun way to celebrate Easter in Canada and enjoy the springtime with friends and family!

Exchanging 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 for each other. Families and friends often give each other small gifts like chocolates, candies, or little toys. Sometimes, people give Easter-themed items like decorated eggs or cute bunny-shaped things. It’s a fun way to celebrate the holiday and spread happiness.

As the Easter holiday arrives, it brings the promise of spring! Easter in Canada is all about celebrating the spirit of community and family. It is about celebrating and spreading joy with others, no matter your cultural or religious beliefs. This is what makes Canada a great multicultural country and makes Easter a cherished celebration!