About Victoria Day in Canada
Victoria Day is a federal general holiday observed on the Monday preceding 25 May. It commemorates Queen Victoria's birthday and is also the date on which Canada officially celebrates the Sovereign's birthday.
How Victoria Day developed
Canadian Heritage traces the observance to celebrations of Queen Victoria's birthday. After her death in 1901, Parliament established 24 May as a legal holiday known as Victoria Day, and the date rule later changed.
Since 1953, the observance has been the Monday preceding 25 May. Federal proclamations also connect that day with the official celebration of the reigning Sovereign's birthday in Canada.
How to calculate the date
The rule means Victoria Day is the Monday on or before 24 May. It can therefore occur from 18 through 24 May and always creates a Monday holiday rather than a separate weekend substitute.
The Canada Labour Code lists Victoria Day among the ten general holidays for eligible federally regulated employees. Provincial and territorial treatment is not identical, so the federal rule is not a complete local employment calendar.
Planning for Victoria Day
Many organizations use the long weekend for seasonal schedules, but opening hours and events are local decisions. Transport, parks, shops and public services should be checked individually before a trip.
Employees should confirm whether federal or provincial labour standards govern their workplace. The Code permits work on a general holiday and sets pay or substitute-holiday rules for eligible employees in the situations it covers.
Common questions about Victoria Day
When is Victoria Day?
It is the Monday preceding 25 May, which means the Monday on or before 24 May.
Is Victoria Day the Sovereign's actual birthday?
No. Canada uses Victoria Day as the official celebration of the Sovereign's birthday.