Family Day, observed on Monday, February 17, 2025, is a public holiday in Ontario. However, it is not considered a statutory holiday across all of Canada. Introduced by the Liberal government in 2007, Family Day was first celebrated on February 12, 2008. While it is a public holiday in Ontario, it is only observed in select provinces, including New Brunswick, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia.
Who Gets the Day Off with Pay?
Most employees in Ontario are eligible to take Family Day off with public holiday pay, provided they qualify. For those required to work on this day, full-time employees are typically compensated with time-and-a-half pay for the hours worked. Alternatively, some employers may offer regular pay with an additional day off in lieu of the public holiday wages.
However, there are exemptions. Some workers, such as taxi drivers and healthcare workers, are not entitled to public holiday pay under the Employment Standards Act. Additionally, since Family Day is not a statutory holiday at the federal level, employees of federal institutions — including Canada Post and public servants — are still required to work.
What’s Open and Closed on Family Day?
In Ontario, certain businesses will remain open, including select Walmart stores and Wine Rack locations. Many restaurants, transportation services, and first responders will also operate, with hospitals and healthcare facilities continuing to run as usual.
It’s important to check with local businesses such as grocery stores and pharmacies to confirm their specific Family Day hours.For more details on holiday eligibility and exemptions, Ontario workers can visit Ontario.ca.
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