As Victoria Day approaches on Monday, May 18, 2026, residents of Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent should plan ahead for modified hours and services. Government offices, banks, and most retail stores will be closed, while some grocery stores, pharmacies, and tourist attractions may operate on reduced schedules. Check with individual businesses for specific hours.
What's Closed
All municipal, provincial, and federal government offices will be closed. Canada Post will not deliver mail. Banks and financial institutions will be shut. Most shopping malls and large retail chains will be closed, though some convenience stores and gas stations may remain open. LCBO and Beer Store locations will be closed, except for certain tourist-area outlets. Public libraries and community centres will also be closed.
What's Open
Some grocery stores and pharmacies may operate on holiday hours; confirm with your local store. Parks, beaches, and outdoor recreational areas will be open, weather permitting. Transit services may run on a reduced holiday schedule. Emergency services will operate as usual. Attractions like Point Pelee National Park and the Art Gallery of Windsor will have special holiday hours.
Other News Highlights
In other news, Toronto police face scrutiny after allegations of racism and antisemitism. Drake's surprise 'ICEMAN' drop sparks social media reactions. A first-degree murder charge has been laid after an encampment fire in Abbotsford, B.C. Four people were injured in a shooting and crash in Airdrie. Gas prices are climbing in the Maritimes ahead of the long weekend. The University of Toronto has stripped Buffy Sainte-Marie's honorary degree. An OPP constable has been charged after a fatal shooting near Turkey Point. Ottawa is paying Lockheed Martin $1.5 billion to maintain Hercules aircraft. A major VPN provider may leave Canada over a lawful access bill. Summer gas prices could hit record highs. A large study finds no clear autism link to antidepressant use during pregnancy. Shakira and Burna Boy release the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem. Hockey trailblazer Manon Rhéaume is named GM of PWHL Detroit. Dust storms and lightning kill at least 96 in northern India. Pope Francis decries AI-directed warfare.
