As Canadians prepare to celebrate the holidays, it's essential to know which services will be available and what will be closed during Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Both December 25 and January 1 are statutory holidays across the nation, meaning federal, provincial, and territorial offices will shut their doors on these dates.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to what’s open and closed in Canada this holiday season!

Federal Offices

Passport and Service Canada offices will not be operational on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day. These offices are critical for accessing essential government services such as Employment Insurance, the Canadian Dental Care Plan, and Social Insurance Numbers, so plan accordingly!

Grocery Stores

Expect many grocery stores to be closed on December 25. The holiday hours differ across provinces and territories, so it is wise to check directly with local store websites for precise information.

Gas Stations and Convenience Stores

Fortunately, gas stations and convenience stores are deemed essential and generally remain open during statutory holidays, providing necessary services for those on the road.

Malls

Shoppers will have a last chance to grab gifts on Christmas Eve, as many malls will be open, although they typically close earlier than usual. Most malls will remain shuttered on Christmas Day but reopen for Boxing Day sales on December 26—perfect for finding discounts!

Banks

Most banks in Canada will close their doors from December 24 through December 26 for the holidays. Be mindful of local branch hours if you need to do any banking during this time.

Public Transit

Transit services will operate on holiday schedules. To avoid any inconveniences, it’s advisable to check their websites for specific transit times.

Canada Post

Canada Post will close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. Though services resume afterward, customers should expect delivery delays potentially lasting into January 2025 due to a recent month-long workers’ strike.

Movie Theatres

Many movie theatres will welcome guests on Christmas Day, albeit with modified hours. For anyone wanting to catch a holiday flick, checking the theatre's schedule beforehand is a must.

Garbage Collection

Most municipalities won't conduct garbage, organics, or recycling pickups on Christmas Day. Make sure to verify your local service schedules online.

City Services

Most municipal offices will close on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. However, emergency services will be fully operational throughout this period to ensure public safety.

Tourist Attractions

Excitingly, some tourist attractions will remain open on both December 25 and January 1! Notable sites include the iconic CN Tower in Toronto and the picturesque Château Frontenac in Quebec City, which offers guided tours year-round. Adventurers can enjoy the scenic views at Grouse Mountain in Vancouver and take in the beauty of Banff National Park, especially around the bustling Boxing Day to New Year’s period. History enthusiasts can also visit Peggy's Cove lighthouse in Nova Scotia, which is welcoming visitors throughout the year.

In summary, while many businesses will close for the holidays, there are still plenty of options for food, entertainment, and exploration. Be sure to plan ahead and enjoy a festive and safe holiday season!