As Easter weekend approaches, residents across Ontario are gearing up for a mix of closures and limited services, with many businesses and public facilities adjusting their hours to accommodate the holiday. From grocery stores to government offices, here's what you need to know about what's open and closed this Easter.
Starting with grocery stores, major chains such as Metro, Independent, and Giant Tiger will be closed on Good Friday, April 18, and Easter Sunday, April 20. Regular hours will resume on Monday, April 21. However, some smaller grocery stores may have limited hours during the holiday, so it’s wise to check ahead.
Shoppers Drug Mart will remain open on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, although hours may vary by location. For those looking to purchase alcohol, the Beer Store and LCBO locations will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. However, alcohol can still be found at some convenience stores, providing limited options for shoppers.
In terms of public services, many community facilities will be closed throughout the holiday weekend. The Town of Caledon offices will be closed on Friday, April 18, and will reopen on Monday, April 21. Similarly, provincial offences courts in Orangeville and Caledon East will not operate on Friday and Monday, reopening on Tuesday, April 22.
Caledon Public Library branches will also be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday, but they will open for regular hours on Saturday, April 19. Recreation facilities in Caledon will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, although select facilities will open for advanced polls during the federal election. Regular operating hours will resume on Saturday and Monday.
In Greater Napanee, government offices will observe the same holiday closures on Good Friday and Easter Monday. The local garbage and recycling collection will be postponed from Friday to Monday, April 21. Most major stores, including Walmart and No Frills, will be closed on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, while Shoppers Drug Mart will operate on a modified schedule. Notably, the Foodland in Amherstview will remain open on both Friday and Sunday.
As for transportation, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will run on a Sunday schedule on Good Friday, starting at 6 a.m. Go Transit will follow a Saturday schedule. Canada Post will not collect or deliver mail on Good Friday or Easter Monday, so residents should plan accordingly.
Despite the closures, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy over the Easter weekend. The Easter family scavenger hunt in Bloor West Village is set for Saturday, April 19, and the Toronto Beaches Lions Club Easter Parade will take place on Sunday, April 20. Additionally, from Good Friday to Easter Monday, the Markham Fairgrounds will host an Easter Fun Fest, offering family-friendly activities.
With the weather forecast predicting a chance of showers and highs around 16°C, those planning outdoor activities should be prepared for the possibility of rain. Always check individual store websites or local listings for specific hours and updates.
In summary, as residents prepare for the Easter holiday, it’s essential to be aware of the varying hours and closures across grocery stores, public services, and recreational facilities. Whether you plan to engage in community events or relax at home, understanding what’s open and closed will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday weekend.
