Myth vs fact: Remembrance Day is not an Ontario public holiday for most workers
Myth vs fact: Remembrance Day, Wed. Nov. 11, is not one of Ontario's nine public holidays, so most employers don't have to give the day off. Workers at federally regulated employers do get it as a paid holiday. Not sure? Ask your employer.
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Remembrance Day falls on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026. Many people assume it is a day off. In Ontario, for most workers, it is not.
The myth: everyone gets Nov. 11 off
Ontario has nine public holidays under the Employment Standards Act: New Year's Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Remembrance Day is not on the list.
The province's guide says some employers give employees a holiday on Remembrance Day, but the employer is not required to do so under the Act.
The fact: it depends who you work for
If you work for a federally regulated employer, Remembrance Day is one of 10 paid general holidays under the Canada Labour Code, according to the Government of Canada.
What it means for you
If you are not sure whether you have the day off, check with your employer or your contract.
Windsor's official Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph at City Hall Square starts at about 10:50 a.m. on Nov. 11.
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