As the Easter long weekend approaches, residents across Canada are preparing for a mix of closures and limited services. From grocery stores to public transport, it’s essential to know what’s open and closed during this holiday period. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Easter weekend in various provinces.
In Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Easter long weekend kicks off with Good Friday on April 18, 2025, which is a designated retail closing day. Most stores, including major grocery chains like Superstore, Sobeys, and Costco, will be closed on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. According to local reports, all NSLC stores will also be shuttered on these days.
The weather in Halifax is expected to be relatively pleasant on Good Friday, with clear skies and a high of 11°C, though winds could reach up to 40 km/h. However, rain is forecasted for the following days, making outdoor plans tricky.
While most major shopping centres such as the Halifax Shopping Centre and Dartmouth Crossing will be closed on these dates, some pharmacies may operate with reduced hours. Residents are advised to check ahead to avoid disappointment. Banks will be closed on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, with some possibly closed on Saturday as well.
Public transport in Halifax will operate on a holiday schedule on Good Friday, with regular weekend schedules resuming on Saturday and Sunday. The Alderney and Woodside ferry services will not run on Good Friday but will operate on a regular schedule over the weekend. On-street paid parking will be free on Good Friday and Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.
In Ontario, the situation is similar. Easter Friday is a statutory holiday, meaning government offices, banks, and malls will be closed. However, Easter Monday is not a statutory holiday, although it is recognized federally and municipally, leading to further closures, particularly for services like the Ottawa Public Library and Canada Post.
In Ottawa, all malls will also be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday but will open on Saturday and Monday. Grocery stores will follow suit, closing on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, while select locations may remain open on Saturday and Monday. Public transit, including OC Transpo, will operate on a modified schedule during the holiday weekend.
Moving east to Prince Edward Island, most businesses will recognize Good Friday as a statutory holiday, leading to widespread closures. This includes all federal, provincial, and municipal government offices, as well as schools. Grocery stores like Sobeys and Atlantic Superstore will be closed, but some pharmacies will operate with reduced hours. Residents can expect regular business hours to resume on Saturday.
In Toronto, the Easter weekend is marked by extensive closures as well. On Good Friday, government offices, libraries, and banks will be closed, alongside major shopping centres like the Eaton Centre and Yorkdale Shopping Centre. However, select attractions such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario will remain open, providing some options for those looking to enjoy their holiday.
Transit services in Toronto will run on a holiday schedule on Good Friday, with regular service resuming on Saturday. As for Easter Monday, many businesses and services will remain closed, including government offices and libraries, while shopping malls and grocery stores will be open.
For those looking to enjoy some cultural experiences, several museums across the country will be open during the Easter weekend. In Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of Nature and the National Gallery of Canada will welcome visitors all weekend long, while in Toronto, attractions such as the Toronto Zoo and Ripley’s Aquarium will also be accessible.
It’s important to note that mail delivery will be suspended on both Good Friday and Easter Monday across Canada, as Canada Post will not operate on these days. Residents are encouraged to plan their mailing needs accordingly.
As the long weekend approaches, it’s essential to stay informed about the various closures and limited services that will affect your plans. Whether you’re hoping to shop, dine out, or enjoy local attractions, checking ahead can save you time and frustration.
In summary, while the Easter long weekend offers a chance to relax and celebrate, it also comes with a variety of closures that can impact daily life. By staying informed and planning ahead, residents can make the most of this holiday period.
