A person lays a poppy on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, after the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang)
Canada commemorates Remembrance Day on Monday, honoring the members of its armed forces who lost their lives in service. Observed annually on November 11, Remembrance Day became a federal statutory holiday after the First World War, though it’s not a holiday in every province. Most provinces and territories observe it, except for Ontario and Quebec.
In Ontario and Quebec, many shops and businesses will be open on Monday, while banks and federal offices will remain closed across Canada.
Here's a look at what will be open and closed on Remembrance Day:
Banks
Banks will generally be closed nationwide, though ATMs will be accessible. The Canadian stock markets will remain open.
Postal Services
Canada Post will suspend operations for the day, so there will be no mail collection or delivery. However, Purolator will operate in Ontario and Quebec, adjust services in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, and close in other parts of the country. UPS will run as usual, while FedEx will be closed only in Nova Scotia. Some other delivery services may also be available.
Government Offices
Federal government offices, including Service Canada and passport offices, will not be open. Outside of Ontario and Quebec, most provincial and territorial offices will also close. Canadians abroad will still have access to emergency consular services, and emergency passport services may also be available on the holiday.
Schools
In most of Canada, schools will be closed on Monday, with the main exceptions being Ontario and Quebec. Parents are advised to confirm with their local school board for any exceptions.
Shops, Businesses, and Malls
This will vary by region. In provinces where Remembrance Day is a statutory holiday, some large stores may close, while smaller grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and restaurants may stay open. In Ontario and Quebec, most shops and businesses, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and liquor stores, will operate as usual.
Public Transportation
In provinces and territories observing Remembrance Day as a holiday, some public transportation services may run on reduced or holiday schedules. Travelers are advised to check with their local transit provider.
U.S. Closures
November 11 is also Veterans Day in the United States, a federal holiday. Similar to Canada, American banks, postal services, and government offices will close, but most stores and restaurants will remain open.
As Canadians take time to honor their fallen, services and schedules will vary, so checking ahead before heading out is wise.
