November 11, known as Remembrance Day, is a federal statutory holiday in Canada. However, its designation as a paid day off for the general public is not national; it is determined by provincial and territorial legislation. Consequently, while it is a day of national commemoration and a holiday for federal government employees, its status as a general statutory holiday varies across the country.
The distinction lies between federal and provincial jurisdiction. As a federal holiday, all federal public service workers are entitled to the day off. For the broader workforce, Remembrance Day is a statutory holiday in nine jurisdictions: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. In these regions, most employees receive a paid day off. In contrast, Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia do not recognize it as a statutory holiday, meaning most businesses operate as usual and it is a regular workday for most employees, although the day is still officially observed with ceremonies and moments of silence.
In summary, while Remembrance Day is an important national observance recognized by the federal government, its practical application as a holiday depends entirely on one's employer and province or territory of residence. To confirm entitlement to a paid day off, individuals must consult their specific provincial or territorial employment standards legislation or their employment contract.
