Introduction
In Canada, statutory holidays (or “stat holidays”) are official days off recognized by law, giving workers paid leave or special pay rates if they must work. While some holidays, like Canada Day, are celebrated nationwide, many others vary depending on the province or territory. Understanding how statutory holidays differ across Canada helps employees, employers, and even travelers plan better.
In this article, we’ll explain what statutory holidays are, why they exist, which ones are national, and how provinces handle their own unique holidays.
What Is a Statutory Holiday in Canada?
A statutory holiday is a public holiday established by federal or provincial law. On these days, employees are entitled to a paid day off. If they work, they usually receive premium pay (often 1.5x or 2x their usual rate) plus a substitute day off.
For example:
- Canada Day (July 1) is a federal statutory holiday observed across the country.
- Family Day (February) is a statutory holiday in many provinces but not all.
This mix of federal and provincial rules is why holidays can differ depending on where you live or work.
National Statutory Holidays in Canada
The following holidays are recognized nationwide:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Good Friday (Friday before Easter Sunday)
- Canada Day (July 1)
- Labour Day (first Monday in September)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Other holidays, like Thanksgiving or Victoria Day, are recognized in most—but not all—provinces.
How Do Statutory Holidays Differ by Province?
Each province and territory sets its own additional statutory holidays. For example:
- Ontario: Family Day in February, but no holiday for Easter Monday.
- Quebec: St. Jean Baptiste Day (June 24) is a provincial statutory holiday.
- Alberta: Heritage Day in August is observed, but not a statutory holiday by law.
- Nova Scotia: Natal Day is a regional holiday, not a statutory one.
- British Columbia: BC Day (first Monday in August) is a statutory holiday unique to the province.
This patchwork means an employee working in Ontario may have different days off compared to someone in British Columbia or Quebec.
Common Questions About Statutory Holidays in Canada
Do all workers get paid for statutory holidays?
Most full-time and part-time employees are eligible if they’ve worked a set number of days before the holiday, but casual workers may have different rules.
What happens if I work on a statutory holiday?
Employees are usually entitled to time-and-a-half or double pay, plus another day off in lieu.
Are all holidays the same across Canada?
No. While some are federal, others depend on provincial or territorial laws.
Why do provinces have different holidays?
Because labour laws are primarily provincial, local governments decide which holidays best reflect their culture and history.
Is Remembrance Day a statutory holiday?
It depends. Remembrance Day (November 11) is statutory in some provinces like British Columbia and Alberta but not in Ontario.
Why Statutory Holidays Matter
Statutory holidays are more than just days off. They:
- Provide rest and recognition for workers.
- Mark cultural and historical events unique to Canada.
- Highlight the diversity of traditions across provinces and territories.
For newcomers, understanding these holidays also helps integrate into Canadian life and work culture.
Conclusion
A statutory holiday in Canada is a legally recognized day off with pay, though the exact holidays vary depending on the province. National holidays like Canada Day and Christmas are celebrated everywhere, but provincial holidays reflect local culture, history, and laws.
If you live or work in Canada, it’s always best to check your province’s holiday calendar to know exactly which days you’re entitled to. Whether it’s Family Day in Ontario, St. Jean Baptiste in Quebec, or BC Day on the West Coast, statutory holidays are a key part of Canadian life.