Victoria Day 2025 in Ontario: Stat Holiday Rights for Employees

Quick Facts: Victoria Day 2025 in Ontario

• 📅 Date: Monday, May 19, 2025
• ✅ Stat Holiday: Yes – recognized under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act (ESA)
• 💰 Paid Day Off: Yes – Most non-unionized employees are entitled to public holiday pay
• 🕒 Working that day? You must receive extra pay or a future day off
• ⚠️ Denied the day off or underpaid? You may have a legal claim – speak to an employment lawyer

What is Victoria Day?

Victoria Day is a federal public holiday that celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria. In Ontario, it’s recognized as a statutory holiday, which means most workers are legally entitled to a paid day off.

The holiday is observed on the last Monday before May 25 each year. It’s often called the May Long Weekend or “May Two-Four,” and it marks the unofficial start of summer with fireworks, and outdoor activities.

When is Victoria Day in 2025?

Victoria Day in 2025 is Monday, May 19.

Future dates include:

Is Victoria Day a Statutory Holiday in Ontario?

Yes. Victoria Day is a statutory holiday in Ontario.

This means most non-unionized employees who qualify under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act (ESA) must receive:

• A paid day off, or
• Public holiday pay plus 1.5x regular pay if they work that day
• Or regular pay + a substitute day off at a later date

Who is Entitled to Victoria Day Off?

If you’re employed in Ontario and not in an excluded role under the ESA, you’re entitled to the day off. This includes:

• Full-time and part-time workers
• Seasonal and contract staff
• Temporary and casual employees

Those working in federally regulated industries (e.g., banks, airlines) are covered under the Canada Labour Code, which also recognizes Victoria Day.

Victoria Day Rules in Ontario

If you work on Victoria Day, your employer must provide either:

• Public holiday pay + 1.5x regular wages, or
• Regular pay + a substitute day off within 3 months (or 12 months by written agreement)

The “Last and First” Rule

To qualify for holiday pay, employees must:

• Work their last scheduled shift before and first scheduled shift after Victoria Day
• Exceptions apply for valid reasons like illness or emergency (with documentation)

How to Calculate Victoria Day Pay in Ontario

Use this simple formula:

What If My Employer Refuses to Give Me the Day Off?

If you’re eligible under the ESA and your employer refuses to recognize the holiday, this is a violation of the ESA and your employment rights.

Just Got Fired Near Victoria Day?

If you’ve been fired without cause near near a satutory holiday, you are owed a severance package – potentially more than your employer is offering.

Don’t sign any severance package, exit agreement, or release form without legal advice – you could be leaving months of pay on the table. Severance pay in Ontario can amount to as much as 24 months’ pay.

Speak to an Ontario Employment Lawyer

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve helped tens of thousands of non-unionized employees in Ontario. Our lawyers can review your situation and ensure your rights – and pay – are fully protected.

Contact us at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.

❓ Victoria Day FAQ for Ontario Employees

Is Victoria Day a stat holiday in Ontario?

Yes. It’s a statutory holiday under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act.

Do I get paid for Victoria Day if I don’t work?

Yes, as long as you qualify under the ESA (e.g., met the “last and first” rule).

What happens if I work on Victoria Day?

You’re entitled to:

• Holiday pay + 1.5x regular pay, or
• Regular pay + another paid day off

Can I be forced to work on Victoria Day?

Only if you work in a sector that requires it (e.g., essential services), and you must still receive proper compensation.

I was fired just before Victoria Day. Am I owed anything?

Very likely. You’re owed public holiday pay and a full severance package. Get legal advice before signing anything.