Victoria Day 2025 in Canada

Victoria Day is a public holiday celebrated on the last Monday before May 25, marking the birthday of Queen Victoria. It is widely recognized with fireworks, parades, and outdoor activities, signaling the unofficial start of summer nationwide.

Victoria Day: A Public Holiday?

Victoria Day is a public holiday in most of Canada, except in Quebec, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, where it is not a statutory holiday. In Quebec, it is replaced by National Patriots' Day. Most businesses, offices, and schools are closed in regions where it is observed, allowing people to enjoy parades, fireworks, and outdoor activities as they celebrate the holiday and welcome the unofficial start of summer.

Victoria Day

Victoria Day has been celebrated in Canada since 1845, originally to honor the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was born on May 24, 1819. Queen Victoria played a significant role in shaping Canada's history, as she was the monarch when Canada became a country in 1867. The holiday was officially recognized by the Canadian government and continued even after Queen Victoria's passing in 1901.

Over time, Victoria Day became more than just a celebration of the queen's birthday. It evolved into a broader holiday that marked the beginning of summer, with people taking advantage of the warmer weather. In 1952, the date was set to the last Monday before May 25, making it a long weekend. While it is a public holiday in most of Canada, Quebec replaced it with National Patriots' Day, shifting the focus to local history.

Victoria Day Celebration in Canada

Victoria Day is celebrated with enthusiasm across Canada, marking the unofficial start of summer. Many cities hold parades, concerts, and public events featuring music, dance, and historical reenactments. Fireworks displays are a highlight of the holiday, with major shows in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver. Families and friends gather to enjoy barbecues, picnics, and outdoor activities, taking advantage of the long weekend. Parks, lakes, and campgrounds become popular spots as people welcome the warm weather.

In some provinces, Victoria Day also signals the opening of seasonal attractions. Many gardens, amusement parks, and outdoor venues reopen for the summer. In gardening communities, it is considered the ideal time to start planting flowers and vegetables. Retailers also take part in the celebration, offering sales and promotions. While the holiday's royal connection remains, it is now more about relaxation and enjoying the outdoors for most Canadians.

Victoria Day holds cultural and historical importance, linking Canada to its past while also symbolizing renewal and change. It is a time when communities come together, whether to celebrate heritage, enjoy nature, or simply take a break before the busy summer months. The holiday remains a beloved tradition, offering a mix of history, festivity, and anticipation for the warmer season ahead.

Victoria Day Observances