Easter in Canada 2013

Family Day | Victoria Day | Canada Day

When is Easter in Canada?

Easter in Canada is celebrated at the same time and in much the same way as it is in other Western countries, like the U.S.

In 2013, Good Friday falls on March 29, Easter Sunday is March 31 and Easter Monday is April 1.

Easter Sunday is the Sunday immediately following the first full moon after the vernal (spring) equinox, unless that coincides with the Jewish Feast of Passover, in which case it is moved to the next Sunday. It can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25. Learn more about why the dates for Easter change every year.

Good Friday is the Friday two days before Easter Sunday and Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday.

How is Easter in Canada Celebrated?

Most everything is closed Easter Sunday; it's a popular day for attending church, getting together for a big family meal, and staging an Easter egg hunt.

How to Colour & Decorate Easter Eggs | Easter Crafts & Activities | Easter Recipes

What's Open and Closed during Easter

Good Friday is a statutory, or public, holiday in Canada, which means that most everything is closed, including government offices, banks and schools. Some exceptions may apply to restaurants or tourist attractions. Call ahead to confirm holiday hours.

Some businesses observe a holiday also on Easter Monday, but most people return to work and retail establishments re-open. Government offices, schools and libraries remain closed. Again, call ahead to restaurants, shopping malls and tourist attractions to confirm holiday hours.

Many cities hold an Easter Parade, such as the Toronto Beaches Lions Annual Easter Parade.

Easter Holiday Dates until 2015

2009
Good Friday - April 10, Easter Sunday - April 12, Easter Monday - April 13

2010
Good Friday - April 2, Easter Sunday - April 4, Easter Monday - April 5

2011
Good Friday - April 22, Easter Sunday - April 24, Easter Monday - April 25

2012
Good Friday - April 6, Easter Sunday - April 8, Easter Monday - April 9

2013
Good Friday - March 29, Easter Sunday - March 31, Easter Monday - April 1

2014
Good Friday - April 18, Easter Sunday - April 20, Easter Monday - April 21

2015
Good Friday - April 3, Easter Sunday - April 5, Easter Monday - April 6