Victoria Day

What is the origin of Victoria Day in Canada?

Victoria Day began as a commemoration of the birthday of Queen Alexandrina, born on May 24, 1819. This Canada’s statutory holiday has been observed since 1845, often falling on the queen's actual birthday (24th in some years).  Following her death in 1901, May 24 was lawfully reserved as “Victoria Day” in honour of the Queen who reigned when Canada became a confederation in 1867. Aside from being a symbol of natality, Victoria Day represents the advent of Canada’s sovereignty, historically, and signifies the beginning of summer, geographically. These are factors which make it a memorable holiday in Canada. 

When is Victoria Day?

Victoria Day is a public holiday celebrated on the Monday preceding May 25 each year.  This year, Victoria Day will be observed on Monday 20rd May 2024. Due to a conflict of dates and events, the Canadian Parliament declared that Victoria Day would be celebrated on the Monday before May 25 in 1952. This observance has no varying dates in the same year as it’s celebrated on the same day across Canada. Meanwhile, the dates may vary from year to year, but it must take place on the Monday before the 25th of May annually.

Is Victoria Day Celebrated Only in Canada?

Yes. Canada is the only country all over the world officially observing Victoria Day as a national holiday. However, Victoria Day is also celebrated in some parts of Scotland but not as popular as in Canada. In Canada, it’s usually a massive event where companies and offices close down to observe the memorial. Known by many names such as “the May long weekend”, “the May two-four” or “May long”, the holiday is among the most recognised national observances in Canada as it’s a  day to take a break, travel and have fun away from school, work and business. 

How is Victoria Day celebrated in Canada?

Canadians celebrate Victoria Day with lots of colourful fireworks, parades and giftings. Notably, parades are held in Victoria, a city of British Columbia, named after the Queen. Since this long holiday marks the beginning of summer, many families would love to travel out or go on picnics. In this season, farmers usually get ready to plant their delicate crops because winter has ended, so no more frost. For employers, business owners and schoolchildren, the Victoria Day holiday is an ample time to refresh and recreate oneself. Stores selling foodstuffs, chocolates and cakes make huge sales in this period from families and friends ordering items for their loved ones. 

What to buy for Victoria Day?

To relax with friends and family and enjoy the best of the season, Canadians would shop assorted deals on clothing, appliances, electronics, toys, gifts and foodstuffs. For adult men and women, you can order some of the fantastic Adidas wears, apparel and accessories and gifts to friends, families or coworkers. Most young Canadians would preferably buy body lotions, beauty creams, cosmetics and body spray to stay fresh during Victoria Day's long holidays. To keep the children happy and engaged, buy them the latest games and the sweetest chocolates and candies. Shopping for Victoria Day is fun and cheap. 

Which stores have Victoria Day sales in Canada?

During Victoria Day, Amazon Canada, Adidas, American Eagle and Best Buy offer the most massive sales in-store and online. Canadian Tire, Beth Bath & Beyond, Banana Republic, Casper, Coach Outlet, Lovehoney and Lululemon have amazing and massive promos you shouldn't miss. For every item you order, there are mouthwatering discounts at the best rates possible. So, place your order today to enjoy the ongoing early bird offers.