While not a statutory holiday in every province, Easter Monday is a federal holiday in Canada—closing Parliament, federal courts and many federal offices. It extends the Easter weekend with a gentle day of rest, family outings and springtime activities that celebrate renewal.
Museums, Workshops & Cultural Outings
- Ottawa museums: National Gallery, Canadian Museum of History and Canada Science and Technology Museum offer free or reduced admission plus family craft workshops (egg decorating, spring wreaths).
- City galleries: Vancouver Art Gallery and Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal host special Easter Monday guided tours and children's art stations.
- Historic sites: Parks Canada sites—from Fortress of Louisbourg to Rideau Canal—open with interpretive activities and heritage demonstrations.
Outdoor Fun & Spring Breezes
- Kite flying: Windy open spaces—Toronto Islands, Quebec City Plains of Abraham—fill with colorful kites harnessing brisk spring gusts.
- Early blooms: Public gardens (Butchart Gardens, Montreal Botanical) showcase daffodils and tulips; many run scavenger hunts for the first blossoms.
- Community picnics: Urban parks host potluck picnics—blankets, thermoses of pea soup and hot cross bun leftovers make for cozy gatherings.
Family & Community Traditions
- Craft workshops: Libraries and rec centres run drop-in sessions—egg painting, spring garland making and puppet theatres.
- Charity fun runs: “Spring Forward 5K” events raise funds for health and youth organizations, often with family-friendly distances.
- Volunteer planting: Local greening initiatives invite families to plant trees or pollinator gardens in community spaces.
Quiet Reflection & Rest
- Neighborhood walks: Gentle strolls through quiet streets or along waterfront trails offer time for reflection after Easter services.
- Home relaxation: Many enjoy a lazy afternoon with board games, reading or movie marathons featuring spring-themed films.
- Family meals: Leftover ham or lamb from Easter Sunday is repurposed into sandwiches, stews or quiches—stretching the holiday feast.