In Canada most holidays are provincial or territorial, and only a few are observed nationwide. It is worth checking your province's calendar in addition to the national one.
In 2026, Canada has 31 official public holidays. The month with the most holidays is August, with 8. Every month has at least one public holiday.
There are 19 potential long weekends this year, from holidays landing on a Monday or Friday. Meanwhile, 3 holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday.
The longest stretch without a public holiday runs from New Year's Day (January 1) to Louis Riel Day (February 16): 46 days.
The first holiday of the year is New Year's Day (January 1) and the last is St. Stephen's Day (December 26).
Long weekends in 2026
Holidays landing on a Monday or Friday
Louis Riel Day
February 16 · Monday
Islander Day
February 16 · Monday
Heritage Day
February 16 · Monday
Family Day
February 16 · Monday
Good Friday
April 3 · Friday
Easter Monday
April 6 · Monday
National Patriots' Day
May 18 · Monday
Victoria Day
May 18 · Monday
Civic Holiday
August 3 · Monday
British Columbia Day
August 3 · Monday
Heritage Day
August 3 · Monday
New Brunswick Day
August 3 · Monday
Natal Day
August 3 · Monday
Saskatchewan Day
August 3 · Monday
Gold Cup Parade Day
August 17 · Monday
Discovery Day
August 17 · Monday
Labour Day
September 7 · Monday
Thanksgiving
October 12 · Monday
Christmas Day
December 25 · Friday
Frequently asked questions
How many public holidays does Canada have in 2026?+
Canada has 31 official public holidays in 2026, with August being the busiest month (8).
What is the first public holiday of 2026 in Canada?+
The first public holiday of 2026 is New Year's Day, on January 1.
How many long weekends are there in Canada in 2026?+
19 holidays land on a Monday or Friday, which can create long weekends.
Which 2026 holidays fall on a weekend in Canada?+
3 holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday: National Aboriginal Day (June 21), Orangemen's Day (July 12), St. Stephen's Day (December 26).