What Are Statutory Holidays in Ontario?
Not all holidays are universally observed in Ontario. Here is a comprehensive list of mandatory paid holidays in the province.
Exceptions and Notable Holidays
Ontario is among the few provinces where Remembrance Day isn’t a statutory holiday. Manitoba and Quebec also do not provide holiday pay or time off for this day.
Remembrance Day on November 11 marks the armistice ending the First World War. Schools and workplaces observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m. to honor this occasion.
While official ceremonies commemorate Canadian Armed Forces members who died in duty, Remembrance Day remains an “optional” holiday in Ontario.
- It is observed along with Easter Monday, Civic Day in August, and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30.
- These holidays are recognized but not legally mandated. Businesses may choose whether to observe them.
Government and Federal Regulations
Federally regulated institutions and Crown corporations such as Canada Post and banks are typically closed on these holidays.
Public Holidays and Legislation
Statutory holidays, also called public or general holidays, are days when most businesses are required to shut down but must still pay eligible employees as if it were a regular workday.
Mandatory Holidays in Ontario for 2025
On a statutory holiday, employers are legally obligated to provide paid time off or compensation to eligible employees.
This list outlines the key public holidays and provides clarity on their legal status and observance in Ontario for 2025.
Author's summary: Ontario’s holiday calendar in 2025 includes mandatory paid days off with some notable exceptions like Remembrance Day, which remains optional in the province.