As Canadians prepare to ring in 2026, many are looking ahead to New Year's Day to plan their celebrations and necessary errands. January 1st is a federal statutory holiday, leading to widespread closures of government services and businesses across the country. Understanding what will be open and closed is essential for a smooth start to the new year.
Government and Public Service Closures
Federal, provincial, and municipal government offices will be closed on Wednesday, January 1, 2026. This includes all non-essential services. Service Canada centres, passport offices, and most administrative buildings will not be open to the public. Similarly, courts and most legal and registry services will be unavailable.
Canada Post will not collect or deliver mail on New Year's Day. Post offices operated by the Crown corporation will also be closed. However, private postal service providers may have varying hours, so checking directly is recommended.
Retail and Business Operations
The holiday will affect shopping and dining plans for many. Major grocery stores and shopping malls often operate on reduced holiday hours or may be completely closed, especially on the morning of January 1st. It is advisable to check with local retailers for their specific schedules.
Most banks and credit unions will be closed for the statutory holiday. Automated banking machines (ABMs) and online banking services will, of course, remain accessible. The Toronto Stock Exchange and other financial markets will also be closed.
Transportation and Transit Schedules
Public transit systems in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary typically run on a Sunday or holiday schedule on New Year's Day. This often means less frequent service. Residents should consult their local transit authority's website for detailed schedule information to avoid delays.
There will be no garbage, recycling, or green bin collection in municipalities where January 1st falls on a regular collection day. Collections are usually postponed by one day for the remainder of the week. For example, if your pickup is normally on Wednesday, it will shift to Thursday. Local municipal websites provide specific details for each region.
What Remains Open
While many services pause, some essential and recreational facilities remain accessible. Most pharmacies will be open, though potentially with shorter hours. Convenience stores and gas stations are generally open, as are many restaurants, cafes, and bars, particularly those catering to New Year's Day brunch crowds.
Tourist attractions such as museums, art galleries, and ski hills often welcome visitors on the holiday, but checking their online schedules is crucial. Emergency services—hospitals, police, and fire departments—operate 24/7, as always.
As communities from Barrie to Vancouver mark the transition into 2026, this guide serves to help residents navigate the holiday closures and plan accordingly for a safe and enjoyable start to the new year.
