Thanksgiving Day 2024: What is open and closed in Canada

Thanksgiving Day, a public holiday in Canada, is usually celebrated on the second Monday of October. This year it falls on Monday, October 14th.

Many offices, shops and businesses will remain closed on the holiday.

Here’s what you should know about opening hours this Monday:

transit

Public transport timetables on public holidays may vary. It is therefore best to ask your local transport company about opening times on public holidays.

GO Transit for the Greater Golden Horseshoe Region will operate on a Saturday schedule on Thanksgiving Monday, meaning fewer buses and trains for commuters.

Schools

Since policies can vary, it’s best to check to see if your local school is closing. In Ontario and Prince Edward Island, for example, public schools do not have classes on Thanksgiving Day.

Banks

The following major banks will remain closed on Thanksgiving Day:

· Royal Bank of Canada
· BMO
· TD Bank
· CIBC
· Scotiabank
· National Bank

Contact your banking institution to find out about the closure of branches and other services such as ATMs and online and telephone banking.

Postal services

Canada Post will not be collecting or delivering mail on Thanksgiving Day. Purolator and FedEx are closing.

Be sure to check whether some private email services may be open.

Government offices

Due to the national holiday, government offices will remain closed. In some cases it is best to check as certain community facilities or services may be open.

Private company

Be sure to check whether private businesses, including grocery and retail stores, malls, restaurants and other businesses, will remain open during the holidays. Depending on your location, some may be open on public holidays.

Liquor stores

Some liquor stores may be closed for the holidays. For example, Ontario’s Beer Store and LCBO will not be operating.

Closures in the USA

For those thinking about a trip south of the border, the United States also has a long weekend celebrating Columbus Day. Some stores may be closed due to the holiday which is on Monday. Due to the holidays in both countries, everyone crossing the border must expect delays.