Victoria Day Canada 2025 is coming up on Monday, May 19, 2025. It’s a public holiday across most of Canada. People mark it with fireworks, picnics, and time outdoors.
But what is Victoria Day? Why does Canada still celebrate it? And how do different provinces treat the day?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Victoria Day?
Victoria Day is a national holiday in Canada. It celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was born on May 24, 1819. Canada has marked this day since 1845.
When Canada became a country in 1867, Queen Victoria was the British monarch. She signed off on Canada’s right to govern itself. Many people still connect her to Canada’s early history.
When Is Victoria Day 2025?
Victoria Day is always the Monday before May 25. In 2025, that’s Monday, May 19.
This long weekend is the first sign of summer for many Canadians. Some call it the “May Two-Four” weekend. That’s a fun mix of Queen Victoria’s birthday (May 24) and a 24-pack of beer — a common part of Canadian parties.
Why Do Canadians Celebrate It?
There are three main reasons:
- To honor Queen Victoria, she played a key part in Canada’s early years.
- To enjoy the first summer break, the weather starts warming up around this time.
- To spend time outdoors with friends and family – It’s the perfect weekend for camping, grilling, and fireworks.
Though Queen Victoria died over a hundred years ago, the holiday has stuck around. It’s now more about fun and summer than royalty for many people.
What Happens on Victoria Day in Canada?
Victoria Day Canada 2025 will bring fireworks, festivals, and family fun. Let’s look at what people do.
Fireworks
Almost every major city holds a fireworks show. These usually happen on Sunday night before the holiday.
- Toronto has a big display at Ashbridges Bay Park.
- Ottawa lights up the sky near Parliament Hill.
- Vancouver hosts fireworks at several public parks.
These shows draw big crowds. Some people even set off fireworks at home, but rules vary by city.
Outdoor Fun
People go camping, visit parks, or open their cottages. In some areas, this weekend kicks off the cottage season.
Barbecues are popular too. Friends gather in backyards to grill burgers, drink beer, and relax.
Gardening
Many Canadians plant flowers and vegetables on this weekend. Garden centers are packed.
This is seen as the “safe” weekend to start planting in most parts of Canada. Frost is less likely after this date.
Parades and Events
Some towns still hold parades. The biggest is in Victoria, British Columbia, the city named after the Queen. It includes floats, bands, and community groups.
Other places have fairs, live music, or local markets.
What’s Open and Closed?
On Victoria Day, Canada 2025, most businesses and public services follow holiday hours. Here’s a quick list.
Closed:
- Government offices
- Banks
- Most schools
- Post offices
- Some malls
Open (in some areas):
- Restaurants
- Gas stations
- Grocery stores
- Pharmacies
Always check local listings. Rules can change from province to province.
Is Victoria Day Celebrated Everywhere in Canada?
No. Most of Canada observes the day, but Quebec does not.
What Does Quebec Do?
Quebec celebrates National Patriots’ Day instead. It falls on the same Monday as Victoria Day. This day honors a group of citizens who fought for democratic rights in the 1800s.
So, while most Canadians enjoy Victoria Day Canada 2025, people in Quebec will mark a different kind of history.
How Did Victoria Day Start?
The holiday began in 1845. Back then, Canada was still part of the British Empire. Queen Victoria was a popular monarch, and her birthday became a special day.
After she died in 1901, Canada chose to keep the holiday. Over time, it shifted to the Monday before May 25 to give people a long weekend.
Today, many Canadians see it as the start of summer — more about fun than the queen.
Why Does It Still Matter?
Some people ask why Canada still celebrates a British queen’s birthday. Here are a few reasons:
- Tradition – It’s one of Canada’s oldest public holidays.
- History – Queen Victoria played a role in Canada’s start as a country.
- Culture – It has grown into a time for fireworks, family, and fresh air.
Even if people no longer think about Queen Victoria, they still look forward to the break.
Travel Tips for Victoria Day Canada 2025
Planning a trip during this long weekend? Keep these tips in mind:
- Book early – Hotels, campsites, and cottages fill fast.
- Watch for traffic – Highways will be busy, especially on Friday and Monday.
- Check the weather – It can still be cool or rainy in some areas.
- Follow local rules – Fireworks, alcohol, and camping rules vary.
If you’re visiting Canada for the holiday, expect a lively weekend with friendly people and lots of outdoor fun.
Final Thoughts
Victoria Day Canada 2025 is more than just a day off. It’s a time to relax, enjoy warm weather, and spend time with others.
Whether you watch fireworks, plant flowers, or hit the lake, the holiday offers something for everyone. Though its roots are royal, its spirit is local.
So mark your calendar. Monday, May 19, 2025, is a day to celebrate Canada in your own way.
