TLDR: There are 10 nationally, with many provinces having 11 or 12.
Canada is known for its many statutory holidays, which offer employees the chance to take a break from work and spend time with loved ones. But just how many statutory holidays are there in Canada? The answer may surprise you.
In Canada, there are nine statutory holidays recognized nationwide. These holidays are: New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Remembrance Day. Each province and territory may also have additional statutory holidays, bringing the total number of holidays up to 12 in some areas.
New Year’s Day
It falls on January 1st, is a time to celebrate the start of the new year and reflect on the past. Many people take advantage of the day off to spend time with family and friends, engage in outdoor activities, or simply relax at home.
Good Friday
It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday, is a time for Christians to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many people attend church services or spend time in reflection during this holiday.
Victoria Day
It falls on the Monday before May 25th, is a celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday and is often considered the start of the summer season. It is a time for Canadians to enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, picnicking, and gardening.
Canada Day
It falls on July 1st, is a celebration of the country’s birthday and is a time for Canadians to come together and celebrate their national pride. Many communities hold parades, festivals, and fireworks displays on this day.
Labour Day
It falls on the first Monday in September, is a celebration of the contributions made by workers to the country’s economy and society. It is also a time for Canadians to enjoy their last long weekend of the summer.
Thanksgiving Day
It falls on the second Monday in October, is a time for Canadians to give thanks for the blessings in their lives and to spend time with family and friends. Many people celebrate by hosting a traditional turkey dinner and by participating in outdoor activities.
Christmas Day
It falls on December 25th, is a time for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and for people of all beliefs to spend time with loved ones. Many people exchange gifts and attend church services on this day.
Boxing Day
It falls on December 26th, is a time for Canadians to continue the festive spirit of Christmas. Many people take advantage of the day off to participate in after-Christmas sales, spend time with family and friends, or simply relax at home.
Remembrance Day
It falls on November 11th, is a time for Canadians to pay tribute to the men and women who have served their country in times of war. Many people attend ceremonies and lay wreaths at local war memorials to honor the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Provincial Holidays
In addition to these nine statutory holidays, each province and territory in Canada may have additional holidays that are specific to that area. For example, the provinces of Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador each have a National Patriotic Holiday, while the territory of Nunavut has a National Aboriginal Day.
The number of statutory holidays in Canada can vary depending on the province or territory in which you live. Regardless of the number of holidays, it is important for Canadians to take advantage of these days off to spend time with loved ones, engage in leisure activities, and reflect on the blessings in their lives.
Payroll Implications Of Statutory Holidays
These holidays offer a valuable opportunity to rest and recharge. It is important to remember that while these holidays are a time for celebration, they also serve a practical purpose in giving employees a much-needed break from work.
In terms of the financial impact of statutory holidays, it is important to note that not all employees are eligible for paid time off on these holidays. Eligibility for statutory holiday pay typically depends on the length of time an employee has been working for their employer and the number of hours they have worked in the preceding pay period.
For those who are eligible for statutory holiday pay, the amount received is often equal to the employee’s regular daily pay, multiplied by the number of hours they would normally work in a day. Some employers may also offer premium pay for working on a statutory holiday, in recognition of the inconvenience of having to work on a day off.
