Ottawa Victoria Day Long Weekend: What's Open, What's Closed?

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Post on May 16, 2025

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Ottawa Victoria Day Long Weekend: What's Open, What's Closed?

The Victoria Day long weekend is almost here, offering Ottawans a much-needed three-day respite. But before you fire up the barbecue and plan those outdoor activities, it's crucial to know what services and businesses will be operating on the holiday Monday, May 22nd, 2024. This guide covers everything you need to know about what's open and what's closed in Ottawa during this long weekend.

Key Services and Government Offices:

• Federal Government Offices: Federal government offices, including Canada Post, will be closed on Monday, May 22nd. Expect mail delivery delays.
• Provincial Government Offices: Provincial government offices in Ontario will also be closed for the Victoria Day holiday. This includes ServiceOntario locations.
• Municipal Government Offices: City of Ottawa municipal offices, including the City Hall and most community centres, will be closed. Check the City of Ottawa website for specific service disruptions. Waste collection schedules may also be altered; confirm your collection day through the city's online resources.
• Banks and Financial Institutions: Most banks and financial institutions will be closed on Victoria Day. Access to ATMs will remain available, but in-person banking services will be unavailable.

Shopping and Retail:

The situation regarding shopping and retail is more varied:

• Large Shopping Malls: Most major shopping malls in Ottawa will likely be open, but with adjusted hours. Check individual mall websites for specific timings.
• Smaller Businesses: Many smaller independent businesses may choose to close for the long weekend, so it's best to call ahead if you have a specific shop in mind.
• Grocery Stores: The majority of grocery stores will be open, although hours may vary. Expect potential crowds, especially on Sunday and Monday.

Transportation:

• OC Transpo: OC Transpo will operate on a Sunday schedule on Victoria Day. Plan your trips accordingly, as service frequency might be reduced. Check the OC Transpo website or app for detailed schedules.
• Para Transpo: Para Transpo will operate on a holiday schedule. Pre-booking is advised.
• VIA Rail: VIA Rail schedules may be altered. Check their website for updated information and potential delays.

Recreation and Leisure:

• Parks and Trails: Ottawa's beautiful parks and trails will remain open, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Remember to pack out your trash and respect park regulations.
• Museums and Galleries: Many museums and galleries will be closed on Monday, May 22nd. Check individual websites to confirm hours of operation.
• Tourist Attractions: Operating hours for tourist attractions will vary. It's advisable to contact the specific attraction beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Planning Ahead for a Smooth Long Weekend:

To ensure a stress-free Victoria Day long weekend, it's recommended to:

• Check specific business hours: Don't rely solely on this guide; confirm opening hours with individual businesses before your visit.
• Plan your travel in advance: Consider potential delays and adjusted transit schedules.
• Stock up on groceries: Avoid last-minute rushes to the grocery store by stocking up on essentials beforehand.
• Enjoy the festivities responsibly: Remember to celebrate safely and respect others while enjoying the long weekend.

This comprehensive guide provides a general overview. Always double-check the official websites of the specific services or businesses you plan to visit to confirm their operating hours during the Ottawa Victoria Day long weekend. Happy Victoria Day!