Here's what's open and closed for Remembrance Day 2024 in Ontario
The federal holiday falls on a Monday this year.
Poppies laid on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa on Remembrance Day.
Remembrance Day 2024 is right around the corner, and people in Toronto, Ottawa and other parts of Ontario might be wondering how this impacts their day on November 11.
This longstanding federal holiday is a chance for Canadians to pause to honour the sacrifices made by veterans who served the country in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions. Many Canadians mark the occasion by pinning a poppy to their lapel — a symbol that has become synonymous with remembrance and respect.
While it's a federal holiday recognized by the public service and other federally regulated workplaces like banks, postal services and more, Remembrance Day is not a statutory holiday in Ontario, which means most regular businesses in the province will remain open.
However, keep in mind that if you're in Ottawa, there's a city by-law that requires most retail businesses to stay closed until 12:30 p.m. on Remembrance Day each year.
So, if you're wondering what stores and services are open and closed — or have reduced hours — on Remembrance Day 2024, here's what you can expect in Ontario this Monday, November 11.
Groceries & shopping
Most grocery stores, pharmacies, shopping malls and other retail stores across the province, including in Toronto, will be open for business as usual on Remembrance Day, as these sectors aren't under federal regulation. However, it's still a good idea to double-check your local store hours just in case there are exceptions.
In Ottawa, though, there's a unique twist to remember. The city's Remembrance Day by-law mandates that most retail businesses stay closed until 12:30 p.m. on November 11 to honour Canadian veterans and active service members. There are some exceptions, including convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, and smaller grocery stores and pharmacies.
This means if you're shopping in Ottawa, your options might be limited until the early afternoon, so plan accordingly.
Liquor & beer stores
Most LCBO and The Beer Store locations across Ontario will open late at 12 p.m., with the exception of stores in Ottawa, which will open half an hour later at 12:30.
Public services
Banks: Most banks will be closed.
Canada Post: Closed on Monday, with no collection or delivery of mail. However, privately owned post offices will be open according to the hours of the business they're located in.
Public Transit: Both Toronto's TTC and Ottawa's OC Transpo will operate on their usual Monday schedules for Remembrance Day, with the exception of a two-minute pause in service at 11 a.m. In both cities, buses will pull over to the side of the road and trains will be held at station platforms for a brief moment of silence.
Certain road closures in Ottawa due to Remembrance Day ceremonies and parades could also affect your commute — you can see the full list of OC Transpo detours here.
Service Canada: Service Canada locations will be closed, as will passport offices, CRA contact centres and other federal government services.