Victoria Day 2024: Ottawa's Open And Closed Services

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Post on May 16, 2025

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Victoria Day 2024: Ottawa's Open and Closed Services – Your Complete Guide

Victoria Day, a Canadian public holiday celebrating Queen Victoria's birthday, falls on Monday, May 20th, 2024. This means many services in Ottawa will be operating on a modified schedule. Planning your long weekend activities? This comprehensive guide details what's open and closed in Ottawa on Victoria Day.

Knowing what's open and closed is crucial for a smooth Victoria Day long weekend. Whether you're planning a picnic in one of Ottawa's beautiful parks, grabbing groceries, or needing urgent medical attention, this guide will help you prepare.

City of Ottawa Services: What's Open and Closed?

Many City of Ottawa services will be affected by the holiday. Here's a breakdown:

Closed:

• Municipal Offices: All City of Ottawa administrative offices will be closed. This includes customer service centres and permit offices. Expect delays in processing applications and requests made over the long weekend.
• Ottawa Public Library Branches: All branches will be closed on Victoria Day. Remember to return any overdue books before the holiday!
• Recreation Facilities: Most recreation facilities, including swimming pools, arenas, and community centres, will be closed or have altered hours. Check individual facility websites for specific details.
• Waste Collection: Garbage, recycling, and green bin collection will likely be affected. Check the City of Ottawa's website for your specific collection schedule adjustments. Plan ahead to avoid overflowing bins!
• OC Transpo: While some OC Transpo services may operate on a holiday schedule, expect reduced frequency and potential route modifications. Plan your travel accordingly and check the OC Transpo website for detailed schedules before you travel.

Open (with potential modified hours):

• Emergency Services: Emergency services, including police, fire, and paramedic services, will operate as usual.
• Some Parks and Recreation Areas: While facilities may be closed, many parks and outdoor recreational areas will remain open for public use. Enjoy the beautiful Ottawa scenery!
• Select Businesses: Many privately owned businesses, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants, may operate with reduced hours or remain open. However, it's always best to check directly with the businesses before you go.

Provincial and Federal Services: What to Expect

Provincial and federal government offices will also be closed on Victoria Day. This includes Service Canada locations and other government services. Expect delays in processing applications and requests made during the holiday.

Planning Your Victoria Day Long Weekend in Ottawa

With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic Victoria Day long weekend in Ottawa. Remember to:

• Check specific business hours: Always verify the operating hours of businesses you plan to visit, as hours may vary.
• Plan your travel: Allow extra travel time if using public transportation due to modified schedules.
• Prepare for waste collection changes: Make sure to check your local waste collection schedule to avoid any surprises.
• Embrace the outdoors: Take advantage of Ottawa's beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.

Victoria Day in Ottawa is a time for relaxation and celebration. By being aware of which services are open and closed, you can make the most of your long weekend! Remember to check the official City of Ottawa website for the most up-to-date information closer to the date. Enjoy your holiday!