Open and Closed: May 19 Victoria Day Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Welland [Video]

Victoria Day has been observed in Canada since at least 1845 and has always been a distinctly Canadian observance. No other country in the world celebrates the monarch’s birthday, including Great Britain.

In Canada, the May 2-4 weekend has often been considered the beginning of the summer season. Cottages are aired out and opened, camping trips are planned and gardens are planted.

It falls on the Monday between the 18th and the 24th (inclusive), so in this year’s case, it’s May 19, 2025.

So what’s open and what’s closed this coming Monday?

Most of Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake businesses remain open as both the city and the town are designated tourist destinations and thus can remain open on federal or provincial holidays.

The other 10 municipalities in Niagara, including St. Catharines and Welland, are mostly shut down. While some businesses are posting hours, others say “hours may differ” because it’s a holiday. The best bet? Call ahead.