Ontario’s Public Holidays in 2025: Everything Employees Need to Know

Statutory holidays in Canada vary by province and territory, meaning employees’ entitlements depend on their location. While federally regulated employers adhere to the federal holiday calendar, other employers follow their provincial or territorial guidelines.

Paid Statutory Holidays in Ontario

The following are the statutory holidays in Ontario for 2025:

Employee Entitlements on Statutory Holidays

Employees in Ontario are entitled to:

• A paid day off on these holidays, if eligible.
• If required to work, compensation in one of the following forms:
  • Public holiday pay plus premium pay for hours worked, or
  • Regular wages for hours worked and a substitute paid day off.

Non-Statutory Holidays Commonly Observed in Ontario

Some holidays are not legally required but are commonly offered as paid days off by employers:

Cultural Holidays and Celebrations

Ontario celebrates several cultural and community-focused holidays that are not typically observed as paid days off. 

What’s Closed on Statutory Holidays?

Many businesses and services are closed on statutory holidays in Ontario:

• Government offices: Closed
• Banks: Closed
• Canada Post: Limited operations
• Grocery stores: Mostly closed, with exceptions in urban areas
• Schools: Often observe breaks during major holidays
• Non-emergency healthcare services: Reduced hours

Federally Regulated Employers

Federally regulated sectors, such as transportation, telecommunications, and banking, follow the federal holiday schedule. Employees in these industries are entitled to the following federal holidays in 2025:

Conclusion

Ontario’s paid holidays provide opportunities to relax, celebrate, and reflect. Whether enjoying a long weekend or honoring cultural traditions, knowing your rights ensures you can make the most of the year ahead.