The Northwest Territories, located in northern Canada, offer a unique blend of stat holidays that reflect the region’s cultural diversity and breathtaking natural landscape. From the reflective moments of Remembrance Day to the festive cheer of Christmas and New Year’s, these holidays give residents time to come together and celebrate. Notably, the territory recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrating the rich cultures and contributions of Indigenous communities. Each holiday here offers a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty and history of the Northwest Territories.
This article will detail all the holidays in Northwest Territories for 2026. You’ll also discover the history and significance of each holiday, as well as the rules for statutory holiday pay.
Northwest Territories Statutory Holidays for 2025-2026
Each province in Canada, including Northwest Territories, designates statutory holidays to honor cultural and historical events. On these days, employees are entitled to a paid day off or receive premium pay if they work.
The regulations for statutory holidays in Northwest Territories are outlined in the Employment Standards Act.
| HOLIDAY | 2025 | 2026 | OBSERVANCE |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1, Wed | January 1, Thu | National, Federal |
| Good Friday | April 18, Fri | April 3, Fri | National, Federal |
| Easter Monday* | April 21, Mon | April 6, Mon | Federal |
| Victoria Day* | May 19, Mon | May 18, Mon | Federal (except NS, PEI & QC) |
| National Indigenous Peoples Day* | Jun 21, Sat | June 21, Sun | Federal |
| Canada Day | July 1, Tue | July 1, Wed | National, Federal (except MB) |
| The first Monday in August* | August 4, Mon | August 3, Mon | Federal |
| Labour Day | September 1, Mon | September 7, Mon | National, Federal |
| National Day of Truth and Reconciliation* | September 30, Tue | September 30, Wed | Federal |
| Thanksgiving Day* | October 13, Mon | October 12, Mon | Federal (except NS & PEI) |
| Remembrance Day* | November 11, Tue | November 11, Wed | Federal |
| Christmas Day | December 25, Thu | December 25, Fri | National, Federal |
| Boxing Day* | December 26, Fri | December 25, Sat | Federal |
* – Federal and/or Provincial
Northwest Territories Stat Holidays Pay Rules
Most eligible employees have the right to take public holidays off and receive public holiday pay.
However, if an employee agrees (either electronically or in writing) to work on a public holiday, they have two options for compensation:
Regular wages plus a substitute holiday: The employee will be paid their regular wages for all hours worked on the public holiday. Additionally, they will receive another day off as a substitute holiday, for which they will be paid public holiday pay.
Public holiday pay plus premium pay: The employee will receive public holiday pay along with premium pay for all hours worked on the holiday. In this case, they will not get an additional day off, which is known as a “substitute” holiday.
Did You Know…
- that in Northwest Territories in addition to the nationwide holidays National Indigenous Peoples Day is observed in the NWT on June 21st.
Canada Public Holidays Glossary of Terms
Canada celebrates numerous holidays throughout the year, both federal and provincial, each with its own special significance. These holidays often involve time off work and various events or activities. In this article, we will explain key terms related to holidays in Canada, such as statutory holidays, public holidays, observed holidays and more.
Full-Time Employment and Holiday Pay
Full-time employees have specific entitlements regarding holiday pay:
- Indeterminate Full-Time Workers: You are entitled to paid leave on all statutory holidays. If a holiday coincides with your scheduled day of rest, it will be moved to your next working day.
- Casual or Term Full-Time Employees: To qualify for holiday pay, you must work either the day immediately before or the day immediately after the statutory holiday.
For more detailed information, including specific terms and conditions related to your employment classification, refer to your collective agreement and other relevant employment guidelines
Leave Without Pay and Holiday Pay
If you take leave without pay for the entire day immediately before and after a statutory holiday, you will not be eligible for holiday pay. For more detailed information, including specific terms and conditions related to your employment classification, refer to your collective agreement and other relevant employment guidelines
Compressed Work Week and Holiday Pay
If you work a compressed work week, you are required to compensate for the difference between the statutory holiday hours and your compressed hours. To understand the specific practices and requirements in your department, consult with your manager or human resources
Premium Pay
Premium pay refers to the additional compensation employees receive for working under certain conditions, such as on public holidays or during overtime. Typically, premium pay is calculated at 1.5 times the employee’s regular pay rate. For example, if an employee’s regular hourly rate is $20, their premium pay rate would be $30 per hour.
This type of pay is often applied to hours worked on public holidays, ensuring that employees are fairly compensated for working during times when most people have the day off
Substitute Holiday
A substitute holiday is a day off given to employees when a public holiday falls on a non-working day, such as a weekend. This ensures that employees still receive the benefit of the holiday. The substitute holiday is typically scheduled on the next working day or another mutually agreed-upon day.
For example, if Canada Day (July 1st) falls on a Saturday, employees might get the following Monday off instead. The specific rules can vary by province and whether the employer is federally regulated
Plan Your Year with Ease! Discover all the statutory holidays in Canada for 2025, sorted by province. From New Year’s Day in January to Christmas in December, knowing these dates will help you plan your vacations, family time, and activities. Stay ahead and make the most of your time off!
Northwest Territories Holidays Most Asked Questions on Google
This guide provides answers to commonly questions about public holidays in Northwest Territories, including dates, significance, and how they are observed.
How Many Days in 2026?
In 2026, there will be 365 days, which translates to 52 weeks and 1 extra day. This year will encompass 8,760 hours, 525,600 minutes, and a whopping 31,536,000 seconds. Essentially, it’s a non-leap year where each day counts towards a complete cycle of time, marking the rhythm of life with its usual pace.
Is Remembrance Day a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Observed on November 11, it honors the military personnel who have served and sacrificed for the country. Most businesses and schools are closed, and people attend ceremonies to pay their respects.
Is Easter Monday a Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Celebrated the day after Easter Sunday, it provides a day off for people to continue their Easter celebrations and spend time with family.
Is Boxing Day a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Celebrated on December 26, it follows Christmas Day and is a time for relaxation, shopping, and spending time with loved ones.
Is Civic Holiday a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Celebrated on the first Monday in August, it is a day for community events, parades, and outdoor activities.
Is Family Day a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
No, it is not a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories. This day is celebrated in some other provinces but not in this region.
Is Good Friday a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday, it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Most businesses and schools are closed.
Is Victoria Day a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Celebrated on the last Monday before May 25, it honors Queen Victoria’s birthday and is often marked with outdoor activities and celebrations.
Is Thanksgiving a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Celebrated on the second Monday in October, it is a day for giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. Many people spend the day with family and friends.
Is Truth and Reconciliation Day a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Observed on September 30, it honors the survivors of residential schools and the importance of ongoing reconciliation. It is a day for reflection and education.
Is Labour Day a Stat Holiday in Northwest Territories?
Yes, it is a statutory holiday. Celebrated on the first Monday in September, it honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. It is a day for rest and celebration.
More Northwest Territories Holidays FAQs
Conclusion
The statutory holidays in the Northwest Territories are not just days off, but vital moments that reflect the cultural diversity and natural beauty of the region. Understanding these holidays is crucial for effective vacation planning, allowing residents to make the most of their time off.
Whether it’s the communal celebrations on National Indigenous Peoples Day or the reflective quiet of Remembrance Day, each holiday offers unique opportunities to connect with the community and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Planning around these dates ensures a balance between work and leisure, enriching personal and professional life in the Northwest Territories.
Statistics and Information Sources:
- Government of Northwest Territories, Canada website
- Link: https://my.hr.gov.nt.ca/employees/leave-time/statutory-holidays
