As the festive season reaches its peak, Canadians across the country are finalizing their plans for Christmas and New Year's. Knowing which services and businesses are operating can be crucial for last-minute preparations, travel, and celebrations. This guide outlines the typical opening and closing schedules for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day in 2025, though residents should always confirm with local establishments.
Federal and Provincial Services
Government offices at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels will be closed on December 25 (Christmas Day), December 26 (Boxing Day), and January 1 (New Year's Day). This includes services like Service Canada centres and provincial registry offices. Many city halls and administrative buildings will also be shut on December 24 and December 31, often closing early in the afternoon.
Canada Post will not collect or deliver mail on the statutory holidays. Most banking institutions will follow the federal holiday schedule, keeping branches closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day. Online and ATM services will remain available.
Retail and Shopping Hours
Retail schedules vary significantly. Major shopping malls and big-box stores are typically closed entirely on Christmas Day. Many will also be closed on New Year's Day, though this is less universal. On Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, malls and most stores will be open but with substantially reduced hours, often closing in the early to mid-afternoon. It is advisable to check with specific retailers for their exact closing times.
Boxing Day, December 26, is one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Malls and stores will generally be open, often with extended hours to accommodate the crowds seeking post-holiday sales. Some smaller, independent shops may remain closed on Boxing Day.
Public Transit and Essential Services
Public transportation in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa will operate on a Sunday or holiday schedule on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day. On Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, special late-night or extended services are often added to help revellers get home safely. Riders should consult their local transit authority for detailed schedules.
Essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies (with reduced hours), and police and fire departments remain operational 24/7 throughout the holidays. Most grocery stores will be closed on Christmas Day, with many also closed on New Year's Day. Some convenience stores and gas stations will remain open.
Garbage and recycling collection is usually suspended on the statutory holidays. Collections are typically delayed by one day for the remainder of the week. Residents should confirm the revised schedule with their local municipal waste management department.
Planning Your Holiday Travel and Activities
For those travelling, airports like Ottawa International Airport are expecting their busiest days of the year around the holidays. Travellers are advised to arrive early and check their flight status frequently. Major tourist attractions, museums, and galleries often have special holiday hours, with many closed on Christmas Day and possibly New Year's Day. Cinemas and some entertainment venues are commonly open on the holidays, offering a popular family activity.
Liquor stores and cannabis retailers will have province-specific schedules, generally closing on Christmas Day. Restaurants have varied schedules; while many close for Christmas Day dinner, others remain open, so reservations are highly recommended. By planning ahead and confirming the operating hours of key services, Canadians can ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday season focused on celebration and relaxation.
