Quebec statutory holidays in 2026 include eight public holidays that every employer must observe, with specific premium pay and vacation entitlement rules. La Belle Province has unique holiday employment standards that reflect its distinct legal tradition.
Here’s everything Quebec employers need to know about the 2026 statutory holiday calendar.
Key Takeaways
- Quebec observes eight statutory holidays in 2026 that all employers must recognize
- Employees are entitled to premium pay (1.5x) for work on statutory holidays
- Quebec has a specific holiday pay formula based on average daily wage
- National Patriotes Day replaces Victoria Day in Quebec
- Easter Sunday and Christmas Day are not statutory holidays but are commonly observed
Quebec Statutory Holiday Calendar 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday |
| National Patriotes Day | May 18 | Monday |
| Quebec National Holiday | June 24 | Wednesday |
| Canada Day | July 1 | Wednesday |
| Labour Day | September 7 | Monday |
| Thanksgiving Day | October 12 | Monday |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday |
Note: Quebec observes National Patriotes Day (May 18) instead of Victoria Day. Quebec National Holiday (June 24) is unique to the province.
Employer Obligations for Quebec Holidays
Mandatory Observation
Quebec employers must observe all eight statutory holidays under the Labour Standards Act. You cannot choose which holidays to follow.
Holiday Pay
Eligible employees receive holiday pay calculated as:
(Total wages earned in the 4 calendar weeks before the holiday ÷ 20) × 1
This calculation is based on the employee’s average daily wage over the previous four weeks.
Premium Pay for Working on a Holiday
If an employee works on a statutory holiday, they are entitled to:
- Premium pay — At least 1.5x their regular wage for each hour worked
- Holiday pay — In addition to premium pay, unless the employee agrees to a substitute day off
When the Holiday Falls on a Weekend
If a statutory holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday that is not the employee’s normal working day, the employer and employee may agree on a substitute day off with holiday pay. The rules depend on the employee’s work schedule.
Quebec-Specific Holidays
National Patriotes Day
National Patriotes Day (May 18) replaces Victoria Day in Quebec. It commemorates the Patriots’ fight for democratic rights and freedoms. This holiday is unique to Quebec and reflects the province’s distinct cultural identity.
Quebec National Holiday
Quebec National Holiday (June 24) celebrates French-Canadian culture and heritage. It is one of the most important holidays in Quebec, with widespread celebrations, parades, and cultural events.
Common Mistakes Quebec Employers Make
- Confusing National Patriotes Day with Victoria Day — Quebec observes a different holiday on the same date
- Forgetting Quebec National Holiday — This holiday is unique to the province
- Miscalculating holiday pay — Quebec’s formula is specific and must be followed exactly
- Not paying premium rates — Working on a holiday triggers premium pay obligations
- Ignoring substitute day rules — When holidays fall on weekends, substitute days may apply
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.