Family Day in Canada
The third Monday in February in Ontario - the wonderful tradition of Family Day comes around . Family Day is observed to celebrate “ the importance of families and family life to people and their communities .”
Family Day was first held in Alberta , in 1990 , followed by Saskatchewan , and then Ontario . In British Columbia , it became a statuary holiday for the first time in 2013 . That said , it is not a national statuary holiday ; all federal workers ( including postal workers ) have to work that day . This fact has caused no small amount of discontent and debate over the years . Secondary to celebrating the joy of one ’ s family , respective provincial governments also recognized the need to address the ‘ drought ’ between holidays , from New Year ’ s Day to Easter weekend .
Beginning in 2009 , Prince Edward Island began to celebrate Islander Day on the second Monday in February , and on the third Monday in February , Manitoba celebrates Louis Riel Day .
So what do people do on Family Day ?
Most people involve themselves in activities with the whole family .
14
Information & News
There are no ‘ rules ’ here : people have family outings , dinners , go skating , take part in crafting , or even go to a movie together . Communities and special venues — such as art galleries or museums — often offer something special for families , whether a planned event , or reduced admission prices . Because Family Day falls on National Heritage Day ( except in B . C .), many people take the opportunity to dig into their family history . If you want to get out , or get away , there ’ s no shortage of excursions and special deals that go with them . In Ontario , and this is probably true for other provinces , some inns and spas offer weekend getaways at discounted prices , beginning on the Friday . Being as its February , in Canada , there ’ s no surprise about some of the goodies served up : hot chocolate and baked goods are always popular .
Except schools to be closed on Family Day , and that public transportation may be running on a reduced schedule . Many — but not all — workplaces will be closed for the day . The most important thing to expect , though , is that you ’ ll have a golden opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones .