Canadians across the country are preparing for the Victoria Day long weekend as families get ready for fireworks, shopping trips, backyard gatherings, and the unofficial start of summer in Canada.
At the same time, one of the biggest questions being searched online ahead of the holiday is simple: What’s open on Victoria Day 2026?
From Costco and Walmart to grocery stores, malls, restaurants, fireworks events, and public transit, millions of Canadians are trying to figure out what will remain open and which services will shut down during the holiday Monday.
Victoria Day continues to be one of the busiest long weekends of the year across Ontario and several other provinces, bringing heavy traffic, packed shopping centers, crowded parks, and large public celebrations.
While some major retailers and government services close completely for the holiday, many businesses continue operating with modified schedules depending on location and provincial rules.
Is Costco Open on Victoria Day?
One of the most searched questions every Victoria Day weekend involves Costco store operations.
Most Costco locations across Canada are expected to remain closed on Victoria Day 2026, including many warehouse stores in Ontario and other provinces observing the public holiday.
Costco traditionally closes for several major Canadian holidays each year, and Victoria Day is commonly included in that schedule.
Customers are being advised to complete bulk shopping trips before the holiday Monday because warehouse operations are not expected to reopen until regular business hours resume following the long weekend.
Gas station hours connected to Costco locations may vary depending on region, so drivers are encouraged to check local schedules before traveling.
Walmart and Major Retail Stores
Unlike Costco, many Walmart stores across Canada are expected to remain open during Victoria Day, although holiday schedules may differ by location.
Several Walmart Supercentre locations in major cities including Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, and Hamilton are expected to operate reduced holiday hours.
Other major retailers that may remain partially open depending on province and municipality include:
- Canadian Tire
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Rexall
- Dollarama
- Best Buy
- Home Depot
- IKEA
Large shopping malls may also operate modified schedules, with some opening later or closing earlier than usual.
Retail analysts expect heavy customer traffic throughout the weekend as Canadians purchase barbecue supplies, groceries, summer products, travel essentials, and fireworks-related items.
Grocery Stores and Pharmacies
Many grocery stores across Canada will remain open during Victoria Day but may operate under reduced holiday hours.
Chains expected to have at least some locations open include:
- Metro
- Sobeys
- Loblaws
- Real Canadian Superstore
- No Frills
- FreshCo
- Longo’s
However, not every store will follow the same schedule. Some smaller locations and independently operated grocery stores may choose to close completely.
Pharmacies attached to grocery stores may also have separate operating hours during the holiday weekend.
Canadians are strongly encouraged to verify local hours before visiting because holiday schedules often change by city and province.
Banks, Government Offices and Mail
Most banks, government offices, and public administrative services across Canada are expected to close for Victoria Day Monday.
Canada Post services are also expected to pause regular delivery operations for the holiday.
This means:
- No regular mail delivery
- Most passport offices closed
- Municipal offices closed
- Government services unavailable
- Bank branches largely closed
Online banking and ATM services will continue functioning normally, but in-person financial services may not resume until Tuesday.
Residents are being advised to complete important paperwork, banking transactions, and government-related errands before the long weekend begins.
Fireworks Return Across Canada
One of the biggest attractions connected to Victoria Day remains the return of large fireworks displays across cities and communities throughout Canada.
Major fireworks events are expected in:
- Toronto
- Niagara Falls
- Ottawa
- Hamilton
- Vaughan
- Calgary
- Edmonton
- Vancouver
Toronto’s largest official fireworks display is expected to take place once again at Ashbridges Bay Park, where thousands of spectators are likely to gather along the waterfront.
Niagara Falls is also preparing for one of the busiest holiday weekends of the season as visitors arrive for tourism events, fireworks, and long weekend travel.
Authorities across Canada are reminding residents that personal fireworks are only permitted under specific local rules and restrictions.
Transit and Travel Delays Expected
Victoria Day weekend traditionally creates some of the heaviest travel congestion of the spring season.
Major highways including Ontario’s Highway 401, Queen Elizabeth Way, and routes leading toward cottage country are expected to experience long delays throughout the weekend.
Public transit systems in cities including Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver are expected to operate on holiday schedules during Victoria Day Monday.
Airports are also preparing for increased passenger traffic as Canadians take advantage of the long weekend for domestic travel and early summer vacations.
Travel experts are advising drivers to:
- Leave earlier than planned
- Monitor weather conditions
- Prepare for traffic congestion
- Use public transit where possible
- Check transit schedule updates before traveling
Why Victoria Day Matters in Canada
Victoria Day remains one of Canada’s oldest public holidays and traditionally honors Queen Victoria, whose birthday helped shape the historical foundation of the celebration.
Over time, the holiday has evolved into something much broader for many Canadians.
Today, Victoria Day is widely viewed as:
- The unofficial start of summer
- The opening of cottage season
- A major fireworks weekend
- A seasonal shopping event
- A travel and outdoor recreation holiday
Parks, patios, beaches, and campgrounds across Canada are expected to see major crowds as warmer temperatures arrive across many regions.
For businesses, the holiday also marks the beginning of increased summer retail activity.
Restaurants and Entertainment Venues
Many restaurants, movie theaters, entertainment venues, and tourist attractions are expected to remain open throughout the long weekend.
Popular destinations expected to attract heavy crowds include:
- CN Tower
- Ripley’s Aquarium
- Canada’s Wonderland
- Toronto Zoo
- Niagara Falls attractions
- Local waterfront areas
- Beaches and parks
Restaurant reservations may become difficult in busy downtown areas as residents and tourists celebrate the holiday weekend outdoors.
Patio dining is also expected to surge if weather conditions remain favorable.
Canadians Prepare for a Busy Holiday Weekend
As Victoria Day 2026 approaches, Canadians are balancing shopping plans, travel schedules, fireworks celebrations, and family gatherings during one of the busiest long weekends of the year.
While stores like Costco are expected to close, many grocery stores, Walmart locations, pharmacies, restaurants, and attractions will continue operating with adjusted holiday schedules.
At the same time, fireworks displays and outdoor events are expected to bring large crowds across major cities throughout Canada.
For millions of Canadians, Victoria Day once again marks the long-awaited arrival of summer, outdoor celebrations, and one of the country’s most active holiday weekends.