Meta Description: Discover what’s open and closed on Victoria Day 2025 across Canada. From grocery stores to shopping malls, plan your holiday with our comprehensive guide.
Victoria Day 2025: What’s Open and Closed in Canada – Full Guide
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Victoria Day
- Date and Significance of Victoria Day 2025
- General Closures on Victoria Day
- Grocery Stores Open on Victoria Day
- Pharmacies and Convenience Stores
- Liquor Stores and Alcohol Retailers
- Shopping Malls and Retail Outlets
- Public Services and Transportation
- Attractions and Activities
- Tips for Planning Your Victoria Day
- Conclusion
Introduction to Victoria Day
Victoria Day is a Canadian public holiday in recognition of Queen Victoria’s birthday and the unofficial start of summer in Canada, often associated with fireworks, parades, and outdoor activities.
Date and Significance of Victoria Day 2025
In 2025, Victoria Day is on Monday, May 19. Victoria Day is recognized on the Monday preceding May 25 every year. Victoria Day is a statutory holiday in most provinces and territories and is a time for Canadians to celebrate their heritage and begin embracing warmer weather.
General Closures on Victoria Day
On Victoria Day, many services and businesses modify their hours or close. Government offices, banks, and schools are generally closed. Public transportation may run on a holiday schedule and garbage collection may be delayed.
Grocery Stores Open on Victoria Day
While many grocery stores are closed on Victoria Day, some may open with reduced hours:
- Aisle 24: This cashierless grocery chain operates 24/7, 365 days a year.
- Farm Boy: Several locations will be open with modified hours:
- College and Bay: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Sugar Wharf: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- St. Clair: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Harbourfront: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Yonge and Silvermaple: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Aurora: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Newmarket: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Bronte: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Pharmacies and Convenience Stores
Pharmacies including Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall are typically open on Victoria Day although for slightly shorter hours. For example, a Shoppers Drug Mart in downtown Toronto may be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. instead of 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Convenience stores, such as Rabba, also tend to be open all day on Victoria Day, providing essential items.
Liquor Stores and Alcohol Retailers
Alcohol sales on Victoria Day vary by retailer:
- LCBO: All stores will be closed on Victoria Day.
- The Beer Store: 82 locations will be open, most from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with some exceptions. Check your local store for specific hours.
- Wine Rack: Many Toronto locations will be open; confirm hours with your nearest store.
Shopping Malls and Retail Outlets
Several shopping centers and retail outlets remain open on Victoria Day, especially in the Greater Toronto Area:
- Toronto Eaton Centre: Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Promenade Shopping Centre: Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Toronto Premium Outlets: Open from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Square One (Mississauga): Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Bramalea City Centre (Brampton): Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Pacific Mall (Markham): Open 365 days a year, ideal for unique finds
Public Services and Transportation
Public services like libraries, community centers, and municipal offices will almost certainly not be open on Victoria Day. Public transportation agencies may have modified services that operate on a holiday schedule, so it is better to check with your local transit authority.
Attractions and Activities
Victoria Day offers various attractions and activities for families and individuals:
- CN Tower: Open for visitors.
- Toronto Zoo: Open for visitors.
- Ashbridges Bay: Hosts a fireworks display in the evening.
Many parks and recreational areas also host events and are great spots for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
Tips for Planning Your Victoria Day
- Check Store Hours: Always verify the operating hours of stores and services before heading out, as they may vary by location.
- Plan Ahead: Complete essential errands before the holiday to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Use Public Transit Wisely: Be aware of holiday schedules and plan your travel accordingly.
- Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the start of summer by engaging in outdoor events and activities.
Conclusion
Victoria Day 2025 is an opportunity for Canadians to recognize their history and celebrate to welcome the new summer. A lot of services or stores will shut down in observance of the holiday, but some will have limited services for the holiday. You can optimize your week planning ahead of time with information about what is open and closed in advance during this great holiday.
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