The province of Alberta, located in western Canada, observes several statutory holidays throughout the year. These holidays are mandated by law and provide residents with days off from work or school to relax, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. In 2024, the statutory holidays in Alberta are as follows:
New Year’s Day - January 1, 2024
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of a new year on the Gregorian calendar, which is the most widely used calendar in the world. It is a day when people reflect on the past year, make resolutions for the new year, and celebrate with family and friends.
Family Day - Third Monday in February (February 19, 2024)
Family Day is a statutory holiday that is unique to several Canadian provinces, including Alberta. It was created to give families an extra day to spend together, and it typically falls on the third Monday in February. This holiday is an opportunity for people to take a break from their busy lives and engage in activities with their loved ones.
Good Friday - March 29, 2024
Good Friday is a significant holiday in the Christian faith, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a statutory holiday in Alberta. Many businesses and institutions are closed on this day, allowing people to observe the holiday or simply take a long weekend.
Easter Monday - March 31, 2024 (Not a Statutory Holiday but often observed by some businesses)
While Easter Monday is not a statutory holiday in Alberta, some businesses and organizations may choose to observe it, either by closing or operating on reduced hours. This can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with specific establishments for their holiday hours.
Victoria Day - Monday before May 25 (May 20, 2024)
Victoria Day is a Canadian statutory holiday that honors the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was the reigning monarch when Canada gained independence from the United Kingdom. The holiday is celebrated on the Monday before May 25 and marks the beginning of the summer season in Canada.
Canada Day - July 1, 2024
Canada Day commemorates the enactment of the Constitution Act, which united the three colonies of Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick into a single country called Canada on July 1, 1867. It is a day of national celebration, marked by parades, fireworks, and other festivities across the country.
Heritage Day - First Monday in August (August 5, 2024)
Heritage Day is celebrated in Alberta on the first Monday in August. While it is not a federally mandated statutory holiday, it is an opportunity for Albertans to recognize and appreciate the diverse cultural heritage of the province.
Labour Day - First Monday in September (September 2, 2024)
Labour Day is a statutory holiday that originated in the labor union movement, recognizing the social and economic achievements of workers. It is celebrated on the first Monday in September and marks the end of the summer season.
Thanksgiving Day - Second Monday in October (October 14, 2024)
Thanksgiving Day in Canada is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It is a day to express gratitude for the harvest and other blessings in the past year. Many families come together for a large meal, often featuring turkey and other traditional dishes.
Remembrance Day - November 11, 2024
Remembrance Day is a significant holiday in Canada,honoring the members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty. It is observed on November 11, the anniversary of the end of World War I, and is marked by ceremonies and the laying of wreaths at war memorials across the country.
Christmas Day - December 25, 2024
Christmas Day is a statutory holiday in Alberta, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ and observed by Christians around the world. It is a time for family, gift-giving, and celebration, and is one of the most widely recognized holidays globally.
Boxing Day - December 26, 2024
Boxing Day is a statutory holiday that originated in the United Kingdom and is observed in several countries, including Canada. It is traditionally a day when servants and tradesmen would receive gifts, known as “Christmas boxes,” from their employers. Today, it is an extension of the Christmas holiday, often used for shopping, sports events, or simply spending time with family and friends.
These statutory holidays in Alberta provide a framework for residents to take breaks, spend time with loved ones, and participate in cultural and national celebrations. Each holiday has its unique history, significance, and traditions, reflecting the diverse and inclusive nature of Canadian society.
What are the statutory holidays in Alberta for 2024?
+The statutory holidays in Alberta for 2024 include New Year’s Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Remembrance Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.
Are all holidays observed on the same day across Canada?
+No, not all holidays are observed on the same day across Canada. While some holidays like Christmas Day are uniformly celebrated, others like Thanksgiving are observed on different days in different provinces.
How do statutory holidays affect businesses and institutions in Alberta?
+Statutory holidays in Alberta result in the closure of many businesses and institutions, or they may operate on reduced hours. This can vary, so it’s always best to check with specific establishments for their holiday hours.
Can employers require employees to work on statutory holidays?
+Generally, employers can require employees to work on statutory holidays if the nature of their business necessitates it (e.g., healthcare, emergency services), but they must provide the employee with a day off within a certain timeframe or pay them according to the labor laws and regulations of Alberta.
