Next Long Weekend BC
January 22, 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, you might be wondering about those sweet, sweet long weekends here in BC. It’s always good to know when you can get a little extra time off, whether it’s for a quick trip or just to catch up on sleep. We’ve put together a guide to help you figure out when the next long weekend BC is happening, so you can start making plans. Let’s break down the holidays and see when those extra days off will pop up.
Alright, let’s talk about those sweet, sweet long weekends in British Columbia for 2026. You know, those glorious extra days off that break up the routine and give us a chance to actually do something other than work? Planning around these holidays is key to making the most of your year.
In BC, we’ve got a pretty good set of statutory holidays, which are basically the official days off that most people get paid for. These are the backbone of our long weekends. But it’s not just about knowing the dates; it’s about understanding how they fall and how they can give you that extra day of freedom.
Here’s a quick look at what makes up a BC long weekend:
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind, but taking a moment to map out your long weekends can seriously boost your morale and give you something to look forward to. Plus, knowing the rules about stat pay means you’re not losing out when you do get that time off.
So, whether you’re planning a quick getaway, a staycation, or just a solid few days of relaxation, getting a handle on the 2026 BC holiday calendar is your first step. We’ll break down all the official dates and help you figure out exactly when your next long weekend is coming up.
So, what exactly is a “long weekend” in British Columbia? It’s pretty straightforward, really. It’s basically a weekend that gets an extra day tacked onto it, usually because a statutory holiday falls on a Friday or a Monday. This gives us a nice, solid three-day break instead of the usual two. It’s not just about sleeping in, though. These extended breaks are a big deal for a lot of people.
Think about it: a three-day weekend means you can actually get away somewhere without feeling rushed. Maybe a quick trip up the coast, a visit to the Okanagan, or even just some serious time catching up on yard work or projects around the house. These breaks are a chance to recharge and break up the routine of work.
Here’s a quick look at how statutory holidays can create these coveted long weekends:
It’s important to know which holidays are “statutory” because those are the ones that usually come with paid time off for most workers. Not all holidays are created equal, and some, like Valentine’s Day or Halloween, don’t automatically give you a day off. You can find more details on BC statutory holidays to see what applies to you.
The rhythm of these long weekends is something many British Columbians look forward to throughout the year. They offer a much-needed pause, allowing for personal time, family visits, or simply a change of scenery. Planning around them can make a big difference in how you experience the year.
Understanding how these holidays fall on the calendar is key to planning your year, whether it’s for travel, family events, or just some personal downtime. It’s all about making the most of those extra days.
Alright, let’s talk about the official days off in British Columbia for 2026. These are the statutory holidays, the ones that most people get paid for if they normally work on that day. It’s good to know these dates because they’re the foundation for all those potential long weekends we love to plan around.
There are 11 statutory holidays in BC for 2026. Some fall on weekdays, making them straightforward days off, while others might require a bit of strategic vacation day use to create an extended break. It’s not just about the day itself, but how it lines up with the weekend. For instance, if a holiday is on a Thursday or a Tuesday, you might be tempted to take the adjacent Friday or Monday off to get a nice four-day stretch. That’s where the real planning magic happens!
Here’s a look at the official statutory holidays in BC for 2026:
It’s worth noting that some holidays, like Easter Sunday or Easter Monday, aren’t statutory holidays in BC, even though they’re widely observed. Also, days like Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day don’t automatically give you a day off unless your employer specifically decides to give you that day or you use a vacation day.
Understanding these dates is key. They’re not just random days off; they’re legally recognized holidays that impact work schedules and pay across the province. Knowing the difference between a statutory holiday and a regular day off helps you plan your year, whether it’s for a short break or a longer vacation.
So, when you’re looking at the calendar, keep these 11 dates in mind. They are the building blocks for most of the long weekends you’ll be able to enjoy in BC throughout 2026.
Figuring out the next long weekend BC is pretty straightforward once you know where to look. It all comes down to checking the official list of statutory holidays for British Columbia in 2026. These are the days that are legally recognized as holidays, meaning most people get the day off with pay.
The key is to see which statutory holidays fall on a Friday or a Monday. When a holiday lands on one of these days, it automatically creates a three-day weekend. If a holiday falls mid-week, it’s just a regular workday for most, unless you decide to take an extra day off.
Here’s a quick rundown of how to spot them:
It’s also worth remembering that not all holidays are statutory. Days like Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day don’t automatically give you a day off. You’ll need to check the BC statutory holidays list to be sure.
Planning around these dates is simple once you get the hang of it. Just remember that the goal is to find those statutory holidays that conveniently align with the start or end of the week. This makes the next long weekend BC a predictable event, allowing for better planning of trips or just some extra relaxation time.
Kicking off 2026, New Year’s Day falls on a Thursday, January 1st. This means that for many folks in British Columbia, it’s a chance to snag a four-day weekend if they can take Friday, January 2nd, off. It’s a pretty standard start to the year, with most businesses and government offices closed on the actual holiday.
While New Year’s Day is a statutory holiday across Canada, including BC, the day after isn’t automatically a day off for everyone. You’ll need to check with your employer to see if you get that extra day.
Here’s a quick look at how it shakes out:
It’s a good time to reflect on the past year and set some goals for the one ahead. Plus, who doesn’t love an extra day to recover from any New Year’s Eve celebrations?
Planning is key. If you’re hoping for that extended break, it’s best to get your time off request in early, especially if you work in a field where holidays are busy or require coverage.
So, while January 1st itself is a guaranteed day off for most, that extra Friday is where the real ‘long weekend’ magic happens. It’s a nice little bonus to start the year, giving you a bit more time to ease back into the routine after the festive season.
Alright, let’s talk about the first real break of 2026 in British Columbia: Family Day. This holiday falls on Monday, February 16th, giving us a much-needed three-day weekend right at the start of the year. It’s a chance to actually relax a bit before the spring really kicks in.
Family Day is observed on the third Monday in February across several Canadian provinces, including BC. It’s a relatively new holiday compared to some of the older ones, but it’s quickly become a favorite for many. Think of it as a designated day to spend time with your loved ones, whether that means a cozy day at home, a trip to the mountains, or just catching up with friends.
Here’s a quick look at how it lines up:
This holiday is a great opportunity to plan something fun. Maybe you want to hit the ski slopes, visit a local museum, or just have a big family dinner. It’s also a good time to check out Family Day events in BC that might be happening around the province.
Remember, Family Day is a statutory holiday, which means most employees are entitled to a day off with pay. Of course, there are always rules about eligibility, so it’s good to check with your employer if you’re unsure. But generally, if you’ve been working for your employer for a while, you should be covered.
It’s the perfect excuse to recharge before the next stretch of workdays. Don’t forget to make some plans, big or small!
Alright, let’s talk about the Easter long weekend in British Columbia for 2026. Good Friday falls on Friday, April 3rd, which means you get a nice, solid three-day break right there. It’s a pretty popular time for people to get out of town, visit family, or just catch up on some much-needed rest.
Now, it’s important to remember that while Good Friday is a statutory holiday in BC, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday are not. So, if you’re hoping for an extra day off on Monday, April 6th, you’ll likely need to use a vacation day or check with your employer. It’s a bit of a bummer, I know, but that’s how it shakes out.
Here’s a quick look at how the Easter holiday falls in 2026:
This holiday period often marks the start of spring, and many people use the time for outdoor activities, especially if the weather cooperates. Think about planning a trip to the coast, hitting up some local parks, or maybe even a spring ski trip if you’re feeling adventurous. Just be prepared for the usual long weekend traffic, especially on the main routes out of the city. Booking accommodations or travel in advance is usually a good idea if you’re planning something specific.
Remember that eligibility for holiday pay usually depends on your employment status and how long you’ve been with your employer. Most folks who regularly work on Fridays will get the day off with pay, but it’s always best to confirm with your HR department if you’re unsure.
Alright, let’s talk about Victoria Day in 2026. This one rolls around on Monday, May 18th, giving us a nice, solid three-day weekend right when spring is really starting to feel like summer. It’s a pretty popular one for getting out and about, maybe hitting up a local park or finally getting that garden started.
Victoria Day itself is a statutory holiday in British Columbia, which means most folks get the day off with pay, assuming you meet the usual employment criteria, of course. It’s a good chance to catch up with family or just relax before the summer really kicks into high gear. You’ll see a lot of communities having parades or fireworks, especially in the evenings. It’s kind of the unofficial start to summer for a lot of people.
Here’s a quick look at how it fits into the 2026 holiday schedule:
So, yeah, Victoria Day is a pretty sweet deal. It’s a chance to recharge and enjoy the longer days. It’s one of the key long weekends that marks the transition from spring to summer in BC.
Planning for this one is usually a good idea. Whether you’re thinking of a road trip or just a staycation, things can get busy. Booking accommodations or making dinner reservations early can save you some hassle. Plus, it gives you something to look forward to after the spring holidays.
It’s not just about the day off, though. Victoria Day has historical roots, celebrating Queen Victoria’s birthday. While the modern observance is more about kicking off the summer season, it’s interesting to remember the history behind it. So, enjoy the extra day off, and maybe learn a little something too!
Canada Day rolls around on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. It’s a big one, a national holiday that marks Canada’s confederation. For many folks in British Columbia, this means a welcome break in the middle of the year. While it falls on a Wednesday in 2026, which isn’t a traditional long weekend, people often try to make it one. Taking off Tuesday, June 30, or Thursday, July 2, can give you a nice four-day stretch to enjoy the summer vibes.
This holiday is a chance to celebrate all things Canadian. Think barbecues, fireworks, and maybe a trip to the lake or the beach. It’s a good time to connect with family and friends, and just enjoy being outdoors before the summer starts winding down.
Here’s what you need to know about Canada Day in BC:
While Canada Day itself is a single day, its placement in the week can really influence how people plan their time off. A Wednesday holiday can be a bit tricky – it breaks up the work week, but doesn’t automatically give you that extra day off at the start or end.
So, even though it’s not a built-in long weekend, Canada Day on July 1, 2026, is still a significant holiday worth planning around. It’s a great opportunity to take a breather and enjoy the summer season in British Columbia.
Ah, August. The month where summer really hits its stride, and what better way to celebrate than with a long weekend? In British Columbia, that perfect summer break comes courtesy of British Columbia Day, observed on Monday, August 3, 2026. This is one of those holidays that just feels like pure summer fun, a chance to soak up the sun, hit the beach, or maybe just catch up on some much-needed rest.
It’s a statutory holiday for most workers in BC, meaning a paid day off for many. This makes it a prime candidate for planning a little getaway or just enjoying some extra time with family and friends. Think barbecues, camping trips, or simply relaxing in your backyard. It’s a great opportunity to break up the summer and recharge before the final stretch of the year.
This holiday is a fantastic way to extend the summer vibes and enjoy the best of what BC has to offer during this beautiful season.
Here’s a quick look at how BC Day fits into the holiday picture:
Planning is key, especially if you’re thinking of traveling. Accommodation and popular spots tend to book up fast for any long weekend, so getting your plans sorted early is always a good idea. Even if you’re just staying local, knowing it’s a holiday means you can plan your errands or appointments around it.
Remember, while BC Day is a statutory holiday in the province, other parts of Canada might have different holidays around the same time. For instance, some provinces observe a Civic Holiday on the first Monday of August, which aligns perfectly with BC Day in 2026.
So, mark your calendars for August 3rd. It’s your chance for a summer-long weekend, BC style!
Ah, Labour Day. It’s that time in early September when summer officially starts to wave goodbye, and we get one last chance to soak up those longer days before autumn really kicks in. In 2026, Labour Day falls on Monday, September 7th, giving us a nice, solid three-day weekend to wrap up our summer adventures or just catch up on some much-needed rest. It’s a statutory holiday across Canada, including right here in British Columbia, so most folks get the day off with pay.
This holiday is all about celebrating the contributions of workers, and honestly, who doesn’t appreciate a day to relax and recharge? It’s the perfect opportunity to plan a final camping trip, have a backyard barbecue with friends, or maybe just tackle that pile of books you’ve been meaning to read.
Planning for holidays like Labour Day can make a big difference in how you experience them. Whether it’s booking accommodation early for a trip or simply making a grocery list for a relaxed weekend at home, a little preparation goes a long way. It helps avoid that last-minute rush and lets you actually enjoy the break.
So, as September 7th approaches, start thinking about how you want to spend your extended weekend. It’s a great time to connect with family and friends, enjoy the last bits of summer weather, and appreciate the hard work that makes our communities thrive. Don’t forget to check out the BC holiday calendar for more details on other days off throughout the year.
Alright, let’s talk about Thanksgiving in British Columbia for 2026. It rolls around on Monday, October 12th, and yep, it’s a statutory holiday. This means most folks get a nice, long weekend to relax, eat too much turkey, and maybe even squeeze in a quick trip before the winter really sets in. It’s one of those holidays that just feels like a bonus, right? After a busy summer and the start of the school year, it’s a welcome break.
This holiday is a great opportunity to plan a getaway or simply enjoy some downtime at home.
Here’s a quick look at how it lines up:
It’s not like some of the other holidays where you might have to check if it’s a statutory holiday in BC specifically, like maybe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is also a statutory holiday in BC but not everywhere. Thanksgiving is pretty widely recognized across the country, and in BC, it’s a definite day off for most. You can check the full list of BC statutory holidays to be sure.
So, get those plans in motion! It’s the perfect time to gather with loved ones, reflect on what you’re thankful for, and just enjoy a well-deserved break before the holiday season really kicks into high gear.
Keeping track of all the holidays in British Columbia can feel like a full-time job, right? Especially when you’re trying to figure out when you can actually get a break. BC has a solid list of statutory holidays, which are the days most people get off with pay. But then there are all those other days that feel like holidays, like Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day, where you’d have to use a vacation day if you wanted to take it off.
Here’s a rundown of the official statutory holidays in BC for 2026:
See? That’s 11 days right there where you might get a paid day off. Most of these line up nicely to create those coveted long weekends, giving you a bit more time to relax or plan a quick getaway. But it’s not just about the statutory ones. Some employers might offer other days off, or you might have personal days you can use. It’s always a good idea to check your employment contract or talk to HR about what holidays you’re entitled to.
Don’t forget about Daylight Saving Time changes! In 2026, it starts on Sunday, March 8, and ends on Sunday, November 1. While these aren’t holidays, they do shift your schedule around, so it’s good to be aware of them.
Beyond the official list, there are other days people often celebrate or observe. Things like Easter Sunday and Easter Monday aren’t statutory holidays in BC, nor are days like Halloween or Boxing Day (though some employers might give Boxing Day off, especially in Ontario). If you want those days off, you’ll likely need to use a vacation day or a personal day. Planning ahead is key, especially if you want to string together a few days off for a longer break. It’s worth looking at the calendar and seeing where the statutory holidays fall and then figuring out if you can add a personal day or two to make it work for you.
So, we’ve talked a lot about the official statutory holidays in BC, the ones that usually mean a day off work and a nice long weekend. But what about those other days that feel like holidays, even if they aren’t technically on the government’s list? These are the optional holidays, and sometimes, with a little planning, they can turn a regular weekend into a bonus break.
Think about days like Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day. While you’re probably not getting the day off work for these, they can add a festive vibe to a regular weekend. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even use a vacation day to string them together with a weekend, creating a mini-break. It’s all about how you want to use your time off.
Here are a few examples of days that aren’t statutory holidays but might be worth considering for an extra-long weekend if you can swing it:
Sometimes, the best long weekends aren’t the ones dictated by the calendar, but the ones you create yourself. It might mean using a personal day or just strategically planning around a Saturday or Sunday. It’s about making the most of the time you have, whether it’s a planned vacation or just a spontaneous extra day to relax.
Remember, not all employers treat these optional days the same way. Some might offer them as paid holidays, while others won’t. It’s always a good idea to check with your employer about their policies. For those looking to plan trips around these times, booking in advance is usually a good idea, especially if you’re aiming for a longer break in Canada that isn’t tied to a major statutory holiday.
Planning a trip around a long weekend in BC can be a bit of a puzzle, right? You want to make the most of that extra day off, but everyone else seems to have the same idea. Booking your accommodation and transportation well in advance is your best bet. Seriously, don’t wait until the last minute.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
The biggest challenge with long weekends is the surge in demand. Everyone wants to get away, which means higher prices and more competition for everything from hotel rooms to rental cars. Being prepared and flexible can make a huge difference in your travel experience.
For example, if you’re thinking about a road trip from Vancouver up to Whistler, knowing the traffic patterns is key. The Sea-to-Sky Highway can get pretty busy, especially on a Friday afternoon heading out of town or Sunday evening coming back. Having a plan for your Vancouver to Whistler journey can save you a lot of hassle.
Remember, the goal is to relax and enjoy your time off, not to spend it stuck in traffic or stressing about bookings. A little bit of planning goes a long way!
When a statutory holiday rolls around in British Columbia, figuring out how your employer handles it can sometimes feel like a puzzle. Most of the time, if a holiday falls on a regular workday for you, you’re entitled to a paid day off. This is pretty standard across the board for most jobs.
But what if you’re scheduled to work on that actual holiday? Well, that usually means you get paid your regular day’s wage plus premium pay for the hours you worked. Sometimes, instead of premium pay, an employer might offer a different day off with pay, but that’s usually something you’d agree on beforehand.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can generally expect:
It’s always a good idea to check your employment contract or your company’s specific holiday policy. Sometimes, there are details about how they handle these days, especially if you’re in a role that requires you to work on holidays.
The specifics can vary a bit depending on your job type and whether your employer is federally or provincially regulated. It’s not always a one-size-fits-all situation, so knowing your rights is key.
Wondering how employers in British Columbia handle statutory holidays and time off? It’s a common question for many workers. Understanding your rights is key to ensuring you get the breaks you’re entitled to. For a clear breakdown of these rules and how they apply to you, visit our website today!
In 2026, British Columbia has 11 official holidays on which many people get the day off. These include New Year’s Day (Jan 1), Family Day (Feb 16), Good Friday (Apr 3), Victoria Day (May 18), Canada Day (Jul 1), BC Day (Aug 3), Labour Day (Sep 7), National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Sep 30), Thanksgiving Day (Oct 12), Remembrance Day (Nov 11), and Christmas Day (Dec 25).
The first official long weekend in British Columbia for 2026 is on Family Day, which falls on Monday, February 16th. This gives many people a three-day break right at the start of the year.
No, Easter Monday and Boxing Day are not official statutory holidays in British Columbia. While some workplaces might give these days off, you’d typically need to use a vacation day to have them off if they aren’t recognized by your employer.
Generally, if you’ve worked for the same employer for at least 30 days in the year before the holiday, you’re likely entitled to holiday pay. This also applies if the holiday was a regular workday for you, or if you worked on the holiday itself.
A statutory holiday, also called a general holiday, is a day recognized by law where most employees get the day off with pay. Other holidays, like Valentine’s Day or Halloween, aren’t official days off, and you’d usually need to use vacation time if you want to take them off.
There are quite a few! With 11 statutory holidays, and many falling on a Monday or Friday, you can plan for several three-day weekends throughout 2026. Some holidays like Canada Day and Christmas Day in 2026 fall mid-week, so they don’t automatically create a long weekend unless you take extra time off.
Yes, for example, Christmas Day is on a Friday in 2026, giving you a natural three-day weekend. New Year’s Day is also on a Thursday, so taking Friday off would create a four-day break.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed on September 30th each year. In British Columbia, it is recognized as a statutory holiday in 2026, meaning many people will have this day off.
Daylight Saving Time in BC begins on Sunday, March 8, 2026, when clocks spring forward. It ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026, when clocks fall back. These days themselves are not holidays.
Employers in BC must follow provincial laws regarding statutory holidays. This usually means giving employees the day off with pay, or if the employee works, providing holiday pay and another day off in lieu, depending on the specific situation and employment agreement.
Absolutely! Knowing the dates of the statutory holidays helps you plan. For instance, holidays like Victoria Day in May, BC Day in August, and Labour Day in September are perfect for short getaways before the busy summer season ends.
Yes, holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s Day, and even Halloween are popular, but not official days off in BC. You’d need to use personal vacation time if you wanted to take these days off work.
