As the Easter and Passover holidays approach, many families are preparing for a long weekend filled with reflection, celebration, and, of course, chocolate. In 2025, Good Friday falls on April 18, followed by Easter Sunday on April 20 and Easter Monday on April 21. This year, the holiday weekend offers a mix of closures and open businesses, particularly in Ontario, where many public services will be unavailable.
The significance of Easter, also known as Pascha or Resurrection Sunday, cannot be understated. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone of Christian faith, observed by many across the globe. As families gather for celebrations, they may also be curious about the availability of services and activities during the holiday weekend.
For those living in or visiting London, Ontario, it is essential to be aware of what is open and closed during this festive period. Most businesses and services will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, with limited operations on Easter Monday. London City Hall will remain closed from Good Friday through Easter Monday, and there will be no garbage collection on these days.
Public transit in London will operate on a limited schedule on Good Friday, with regular service resuming on Easter Monday. Service Ontario locations will also be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Grocery stores will have varied hours; most will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday but will open on Easter Monday.
In addition to grocery stores, all LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) stores will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, with select locations open on Easter Monday with reduced hours. Residents are encouraged to check ahead for restaurant hours, particularly for popular spots like fish and chips, as many eateries may also close during the holiday.
In terms of recreational activities, the city has organized free events for families on Good Friday. However, all public libraries in London will be closed on Good Friday, with regular hours resuming on Saturday. Both branch locations and the Central Library will also close on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday.
Moving beyond London, many cities across Southern Ontario will experience similar closures. In Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Halton, Hamilton, and the Durham and Niagara regions, a wide range of services will be unavailable on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. This includes banks, libraries, and non-emergency federal, provincial, and municipal offices. Garbage and recycling collection will not take place on Good Friday, and transit services will operate on modified schedules.
For example, Square One Shopping Centre, a major retail hub in Mississauga, will be closed on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Other shopping centers like Erin Mills Town Centre and Dixie Outlet Mall will also close their doors on these days, although some individual restaurants might remain open.
While many places will be closed, there are still options for those looking to enjoy the holiday. Local parks and trails will remain accessible, and some cafes, bars, and restaurants may be open. It’s advisable for patrons to call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
In addition to local activities, the Easter weekend coincides with advance polling stations for the federal election, which will be open for residents wishing to vote early. This provides an opportunity for civic engagement amidst the holiday celebrations.
As families hunt for chocolate Easter eggs and gather for festive meals, they may notice a rise in chocolate prices this year. The cost of chocolate has spiked due to various factors, including supply chain disruptions and increased demand. As families prepare for their celebrations, they might want to consider budgeting for these increased costs.
In Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake, many tourist attractions will remain open during the long weekend, providing activities for visitors. However, essential services such as city and town halls, non-emergency government offices, and most major grocery stores will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. On Easter Monday, schools and non-emergency government offices will also close.
For those planning to visit Toronto, a mix of closures and openings will characterize the holiday weekend. Major grocery stores, including Costco, will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. However, smaller grocery stores and some tourist attractions, like the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium, will be open, offering a chance for visitors to explore the city.
With the holiday weekend approaching, it’s essential for families to plan ahead. Whether it’s picking up groceries, engaging in community activities, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, knowing what's open and closed can help make the most of this special time.
As Easter and Passover celebrations unfold, families across Ontario will gather to reflect, celebrate, and enjoy the holiday spirit. From traditional meals to modern-day egg hunts, the long weekend promises to be filled with joy and remembrance.
