Canada Day, celebrated on July 1st each year, marks the anniversary of the confederation of Canada and is a day filled with national pride, festivities, and community events. In Toronto, Canada’s largest city, the day is marked by a variety of celebrations, including parades, concerts, and fireworks. However, for residents and visitors alike, knowing which stores are open on Canada Day is crucial for planning their activities and ensuring they have access to essential services and shopping opportunities. This article provides a comprehensive guide on what stores are open on Canada Day in Toronto, offering insights into various types of stores, their hours, and special considerations for this national holiday.
Introduction to Canada Day in Toronto
Canada Day is a significant public holiday in Canada, commemorating the formation of the country in 1867. In Toronto, the day is celebrated with a variety of events, including fireworks displays at iconic locations such as Ashbridges Bay, parades, concerts, and family-friendly activities in parks and community centers. While many people take the day off to enjoy these festivities, others may need to shop for essentials or take advantage of the holiday sales. Understanding which stores are open can help residents and visitors plan their day effectively.
Major Retail Chains and Malls
Grocery Stores
Many major grocery stores in Toronto operate with reduced hours on Canada Day. The following chains typically have locations open, though it is advisable to check with individual stores for specific hours:
- Loblaws: Most Loblaws stores in Toronto are open on Canada Day, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Sobeys: Selected Sobeys locations remain open, generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Metro: Metro stores often operate on a holiday schedule, opening from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- No Frills: Some No Frills stores may be open, typically with reduced hours.
- Longo’s: Many Longo’s locations are open, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Shopping Malls
Several shopping malls in Toronto open their doors on Canada Day, though hours may vary:
- Eaton Centre: Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Eaton Centre is usually open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Canada Day.
- Yorkdale Shopping Centre: This upscale mall typically opens from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Scarborough Town Centre: Often open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Scarborough Town Centre provides shopping and dining options for visitors.
- CF Fairview Mall: Fairview Mall generally operates from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Canada Day.
- Dufferin Mall: This mall usually follows a holiday schedule, opening from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Pharmacies and Drug Stores
Pharmacies and drug stores are essential services, and many remain open on Canada Day to cater to the needs of residents and visitors:
- Shoppers Drug Mart: Most Shoppers Drug Mart locations are open on Canada Day, though hours vary. Many operate from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Rexall: Selected Rexall locations are open, typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Guardian and IDA: Independent pharmacies under these banners may have varied hours, so it is recommended to check with individual stores.
Liquor and Beer Stores
In Ontario, the sale of alcohol is regulated by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and The Beer Store. On Canada Day, their hours are typically as follows:
- LCBO: Most LCBO stores are closed on Canada Day, though some may operate with reduced hours in tourist areas.
- The Beer Store: The majority of Beer Store locations are closed, with a few exceptions in high-traffic or tourist areas.
Convenience Stores
Convenience stores are a reliable option for last-minute essentials and typically remain open on Canada Day:
- 7-Eleven: All 7-Eleven stores in Toronto are open 24 hours, providing access to snacks, drinks, and basic groceries.
- Circle K: Circle K stores are also generally open 24 hours, offering similar convenience products.
- Independent Convenience Stores: Many independent convenience stores across Toronto stay open on Canada Day, though hours may vary.
Specialty Stores and Services
Bookstores
- Indigo/Chapters: Selected Indigo and Chapters locations in Toronto may be open on Canada Day, usually with reduced hours from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Independent Bookstores: Hours for independent bookstores vary, so it is advisable to check with individual stores.
Electronics and Home Goods
- Best Buy: Some Best Buy locations in Toronto may be open on Canada Day, typically from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- The Source: Selected The Source locations are usually open, often with reduced hours.
Home Improvement Stores
- Home Depot: Most Home Depot stores in Toronto are open on Canada Day, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Canadian Tire: Selected Canadian Tire locations are open, typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Lowe’s: Lowe’s stores often operate with reduced hours on Canada Day, generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Restaurants and Cafes
Many restaurants and cafes in Toronto remain open on Canada Day, catering to both locals and tourists enjoying the holiday:
- Tim Hortons: Most Tim Hortons locations are open 24 hours, offering coffee, snacks, and meals.
- Starbucks: Many Starbucks cafes are open, typically with reduced hours.
- Fast Food Chains: McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, and other fast food chains usually remain open, though hours may vary.
- Local Restaurants: Many local restaurants, especially those in tourist areas, are open on Canada Day. It is recommended to check with individual establishments for specific hours and reservations.
Tourist Attractions and Activities
Toronto’s tourist attractions and recreational facilities often remain open on Canada Day, providing entertainment and activities for visitors:
- CN Tower: The CN Tower is open on Canada Day, offering panoramic views of the city and special holiday events.
- Toronto Zoo: The Toronto Zoo is open, typically from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with various family-friendly activities and animal exhibits.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Open from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Ripley’s Aquarium offers an underwater adventure for visitors of all ages.
- Royal Ontario Museum: The Royal Ontario Museum is open on Canada Day, usually from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, featuring special exhibits and events.
- Toronto Islands: The Toronto Islands are a popular destination on Canada Day, with ferries operating on a holiday schedule and various outdoor activities available.
Public Transportation
Public transportation in Toronto, operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), runs on a holiday schedule on Canada Day. This typically means reduced service frequencies, but the network remains operational to accommodate holiday travelers. Key transit services include:
- Subways: The subway system runs on a holiday schedule, with reduced frequency compared to regular weekdays.
- Buses and Streetcars: Buses and streetcars also operate on a holiday schedule, with some routes offering limited service.
- GO Transit: GO Transit, which provides regional rail and bus services, runs on a holiday schedule with reduced service frequencies.
See also: What to Do with Canada’s Long Weekend
Conclusion
Canada Day is a vibrant and significant holiday in Toronto, filled with celebrations, events, and community gatherings. While many stores and services operate with reduced hours or close for the day, a wide range of essential services and shopping opportunities remain available to residents and visitors. Major grocery stores, shopping malls, pharmacies, convenience stores, and tourist attractions typically open their doors, ensuring that people can access the necessities and enjoy the holiday festivities.
Planning ahead and checking with individual stores for specific hours can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable Canada Day experience in Toronto. Whether you are stocking up on supplies, enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, or exploring the city’s attractions, understanding what stores are open can help you make the most of this special day.