Everyone looks forward to Victoria Day. It is an official holiday. Some call it May long weekend, May Two-Four or May Long. It is always on the Monday before May 24th each year.

It celebrates Queen Victoria’s birthday. She was born on May 24, 1819.

Who was Queen Victoria?

Queen Victoria became the queen in 1837. She was 18 years old. She was a symbol of progress in her time.

Great Britain made large railways, bridges, and systems for electricity. The empire also became bigger. It had Canada, Australia, India, parts of Africa, and the South Pacific.

How do Canadians celebrate Victoria Day?

It is a day for picnics, parades, and fireworks. Many go to cottages. Others go to parks and other outdoor places.

It is a holiday in many parts of Canada. But, the Atlantic provinces do not celebrate it. Quebec has Journée nationale des patriotes (National Patriots’ Day) on this day.

England also does not have this holiday. Only Canada and Scotland celebrate it.

What’s open and closed on Victoria Day?

In Winnipeg, check What’s open and what’s closed on May Long Weekend and Victoria Day or call 311.
 
Article updated May 18, 2023.