What’s Open and Closed on Thanksgiving in Toronto 2026
What’s open and closed on Thanksgiving in Toronto 2026 will look different across the city on Monday, October 12. Thanksgiving is an Ontario public holiday, so government offices, banks, libraries, schools and many large retailers will close. The TTC will run holiday service, while restaurants, pharmacies, attractions and some grocery stores may open with reduced hours. Store rules and schedules can vary by location. Use this guide to plan your day, then confirm the latest hours on each organization’s official website before leaving home.
Is Thanksgiving a Statutory Holiday in Ontario?
Yes. Thanksgiving Day is one of Ontario’s nine public holidays under the Employment Standards Act. In 2026, it falls on Monday, October 12. Eligible workers may receive public holiday pay or another day off, but employment rules do not require every business to close.
Retail stores follow separate rules. Toronto’s Holiday Shopping Bylaw requires many retail businesses to close on Thanksgiving. Exemptions can apply to restaurants, pharmacies, gas stations, small food stores and shops in designated tourist areas.
What’s Closed or Operating Differently in Toronto
These services and businesses will be closed or are expected to operate differently on Thanksgiving Monday:
- Toronto Public Library: Branches are closed all day on Monday, October 12. Online services remain available.
- Government offices: Most federal, provincial and City of Toronto offices and service counters will be closed.
- Banks: Most bank and credit-union branches will be closed. Online banking and ATMs will remain available.
- Schools: Ontario public schools are closed for Thanksgiving. Colleges and universities may follow their own academic calendars.
- Retail stores: Many large stores and shopping centres will close unless they qualify for a holiday-shopping exemption.
- City facilities: Recreation centres, pools, arenas and other facilities may close or reduce their hours. Check the facility page before visiting.
What’s Open in Toronto on Thanksgiving
Some essential services, food businesses and tourist locations may remain open. Hours can differ between locations, even within the same chain.
- Restaurants, cafés and bars: Many will open, but some may use shorter hours or require reservations.
- Pharmacies: Select locations may open with reduced hours. Call or check the store locator first.
- Grocery and convenience stores: Some smaller stores and exempt locations may open. Large supermarkets may close.
- Gas stations: Many will remain open, although attached stores may have different hours.
- Tourist attractions: Some attractions, movie theatres and entertainment venues may open with holiday schedules or timed admission.
- Emergency services: Police, fire and paramedic services continue to operate. Hospitals remain open for emergency care.
Getting Around: TTC and GO Transit
- TTC: The TTC’s 2026 holiday-service schedule confirms holiday service on Monday, October 12. Check current service alerts and the trip planner before travelling.
- GO Transit: GO Transit lists a Saturday schedule for Thanksgiving Day. Some routes do not operate on weekends, so check your train or bus before leaving.
Shopping, Groceries and Alcohol
Thanksgiving shopping hours depend on the type and location of the store. Businesses that qualify for an exemption may open, while many large retailers will close. Stores inside a shopping centre can also use different hours from the mall itself.
- Shopping centres: Confirm the mall’s holiday page and check the individual retailer before travelling.
- Grocery stores: Search by location because one branch may open while another branch from the same chain closes.
- LCBO and The Beer Store: Holiday hours may vary. Check the official LCBO store finder and Beer Store location finder for the latest information.
Attractions and Restaurants
Major attractions can remain open on Thanksgiving, but they may use shorter hours or timed tickets. Restaurants set their own schedules and may offer a special holiday menu. Reserve early when possible. Planning a meal at home? See our guide to Thanksgiving turkey in Toronto. For dining out, explore these Thanksgiving brunch options.
Before You Head Out
- Check the official location page on the morning of your visit.
- Confirm the address, opening hours and last admission time.
- Reserve tickets or a table when advance booking is available.
- Use the TTC or GO Transit trip planner for current service information.
- Keep a backup option in case a business closes early.
References
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