Thanksgiving Day 2026 in Canada falls on Monday, October 12 — the second Monday of October. This creates a 3-day long weekend (Sat Oct 10 – Mon Oct 12).
Thanksgiving is a federal statutory holiday and a statutory holiday in all provinces except New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island (where it's optional for provincially regulated employers).
Federal statutory holiday. Statutory in most provinces. In NB, NS, and PE, provincially regulated employers are not required to give the day off, though many do.
October 2026 calendar: Sat Oct 10 – Sun Oct 11 – Mon Oct 12 (Thanksgiving). A popular weekend for visiting family and enjoying fall foliage across the country.
Federal offices, banks, and schools close. Many businesses close or operate with reduced hours. Grocery stores typically close or have limited hours on Thanksgiving Monday.
Canadian Thanksgiving celebrates the harvest season and dates back to 1578 when explorer Martin Frobisher held a ceremony of thanks. Traditions include turkey dinner, pumpkin pie, and family gatherings.
Last verified: 2026-08-28