March Break 2026 in Canada: Official Dates & 6 Best Getaways

So, you’re looking at the calendar and realizing 2026 is actually happening. If you’re like me, you probably panic-check dates for school breaks about six months out because booking a decent Airbnb last minute is a nightmare I refuse to relive.

March Break is that weird, beautiful time of year where we’re all collectively done with winter but winter isn’t quite done with us. You want to go somewhere. Or maybe you just want to know when the kids are home so you can stock up on snacks. Either way, I’ve dug through the school board calendars so you don’t have to.

Here is everything you need to know about March break 2026 in Canada dates, statutory holidays, and where you should actually go if you want to save a buck but still feel like you’re living large.

What Is March Break in Canada Anyway?

If you’re new here or just visiting, March Break is essentially a one (or two) week pause in the academic calendar. It was originally designed to give teachers and students a breather between the winter slog and the final spring push.

Now? It’s peak travel season.

It’s the time when Pearson Airport is a zoo and Mont Tremblant is packed. But it’s also the best time to explore local spots that are just starting to thaw out.

When Exactly Is March Break 2026?

It’s not the same for everyone. Canada likes to keep us on our toes. Depending on which province you’re in, you could be off in early March or pushing right into April.

Here is the breakdown by province for the major spots:

Quebec (Relâche scolaire): March 2 to March 6, 2026.
- Quebec always goes first. If you’re looking for Quebec March Break 2026 deals, book for late February.
New Brunswick: March 2 to March 6, 2026.
- They align with Quebec this year, which is great for avoiding the Ontario crowds.
Ontario: March 16 to March 20, 2026.
- This is the big one. March Break 2026 Ontario is smack in the middle of the month.
Nova Scotia: March 16 to March 20, 2026.
- Halifax and surrounding areas are syncing up with Ontario this year.
Prince Edward Island: March 16 to March 20, 2026.
British Columbia: March 16 to March 27, 2026.
- Yes, March Break BC 2026 is typically two weeks. Must be nice, right?
Manitoba: March 30 to April 3, 2026.
Saskatchewan: April 3 to April 10, 2026.
- Saskatchewan is skipping “March” break and doing an Easter break instead.
Alberta: Late March to Early April (Varies by Board).
- Most boards, including Calgary and Edmonton, are aligning with Easter. Expect breaks around March 27 – April 6, 2026.
Newfoundland and Labrador: April 6 to April 10, 2026.
- They are taking the week after Easter.

The “Spring Break” Twist and Easter 2026

You might have noticed Alberta is late to the party. That’s because of Easter.

In 2026, Easter Sunday is on April 5.

Because it’s relatively early, some school boards (looking at you, Edmonton and Calgary) are pushing their break to align with the long weekend. It makes sense. You get a longer stretch off without burning extra vacation days. But it does mean if you’re searching for a March break 2026 in Canada calendar, you need to double-check your specific local district.

Good Friday: April 3, 2026
Easter Monday: April 6, 2026

Top Canadian Destinations for Spring Break 2026

1. Quebec City

March Break in Canada — *Photo via Nate Markarian*

Since Quebec March Break 2026 is early, the crowds thin out a bit by mid-March. The historic appeal here is unmatched. You have to stroll through Old Quebec and hit up the Quartier Petit Champlain—it’s basically a real-life postcard.

If the kids have energy to burn, head to Village Vacances Valcartier. It’s the largest winter sliding park in North America. Seriously, the tubing is intense.
Le Relais or Station Touristique Stoneham are super close to downtown if you want a quick run without the long drive.

2. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal in March is a vibe. It combines that lovely urban life with enough indoor stuff to save you if the weather turns.

The Montreal Biodome is a classic for a reason. You walk through different ecosystems, and it’s warm inside. Win-win.
Jump on the Grande Roue de Montréal. It’s a massive Ferris wheel with panoramic views that are actually worth the ticket price.
Head to Mont-Royal Park. You can skate on Beaver Lake or do some snow tubing often for free.

3. Ottawa, Ontario

The capital isn’t just for politicians. It’s surprisingly great for families during the break.

You can easily kill three days just hopping between the Canadian Children’s Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, and the Museum of Nature. They are world-class.
If the weather holds and the ice is still good, skating the Rideau Canal is a bucket list item. But if it’s melted (it is mid-March, after all), go for a hike in Parc de la Gatineau instead.

4. Toronto, Ontario

For the March Break 2026 Ontario crowd staying local, Toronto has everything. Yes, it’s busy, but it’s efficient.

The CN Tower. If you’re feeling brave, do the EdgeWalk. If not, the observation deck is still cool.
Allan Gardens Conservatory. It’s a historic greenhouse that feels like a tropical jungle. Perfect when you’re sick of grey skies.
The Toronto Zoo is huge. 5,000 animals. 500 species. Wear comfortable shoes.

5. The Canadian Rockies, Alberta

If you have the budget for the flight, this is the place to be. The skiing in March is prime—lots of snow, but slightly warmer days (usually).

Look for season pass holder discounts at places like Nakiska, Kicking Horse, or Fernie.
Johnston Canyon is accessible and stunning in winter. Tunnel Mountain is another good one.
Banff Hot Springs. There is nothing better than a natural thermal pool after a day of freezing your face off.

6. Vancouver, BC

Since March Break BC 2026 is two weeks, you have time to explore. The coast offers that mild weather we all crave.

Stanley Park. Bike it, walk it, just go. The seawall is legendary.
Capilano Suspension Bridge. It’s touristy, but the views are incredible.
Take the Sea-to-Sky Highway up to Whistler. Even if you don’t ski, the drive alone is worth the gas money.

Plan Ahead for a Relaxed March Break 2026

March Break doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be planned. Whether you are staying home for a staycation or flying out to the Rockies, knowing the dates is half the battle. The other half is keeping the kids entertained for 120 hours straight.

Spring Break 2026 in Canada provides so many opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Choose a destination that suits your vibe and enjoy the week.

Good luck. You got this.

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