Alberta’s statutory holidays are moments of cultural, historical, and societal significance.
But when these holidays fall on weekends, it raises questions about observance and entitlements.
This guide provides a detailed look at each statutory holiday in Alberta and its rules when coinciding with weekends.
What Happens If a Stat Holiday Falls on a Weekend in Alberta?
While many statutory holidays have set dates, their observance can shift based on the day of the week they fall on.
Here’s a breakdown of Alberta’s statutory holidays and their specific rules:
| Statutory Holiday | Date | If Falls on Saturday | If Falls on Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Observed on following Monday | Observed on following Monday |
| Family Day | Third Monday in February | No Change (Always Monday) | No Change (Always Monday) |
| Good Friday | Friday before Easter | No Change (Always Friday) | No Change (Always Friday) |
| Victoria Day | Monday before May 25 | No specific rule mentioned | No specific rule mentioned |
| Canada Day | July 1 | Observed on following Monday | Observed on following Monday |
| Labour Day | First Monday in September | No Change (Always Monday) | No Change (Always Monday) |
| Thanksgiving Day | Second Monday in October | No specific rule mentioned | No specific rule mentioned |
| Remembrance Day | November 11 | Observed on following Monday | Observed on following Monday |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Observed on following Monday | Observed on following Monday |
Source: Alberta General Holidays
Understanding Statutory Holiday Pay in Alberta
Employees’ entitlements to statutory holiday pay depend on whether the holiday is a regular workday and if they work on that day.
The calculations are as previously detailed, with the key point being that employees are entitled to their average daily wage if the holiday is a regular workday and they don’t work.
FAQs on Alberta Stat Holidays on Weekends
How is the average daily wage determined for statutory holidays?
It’s calculated by dividing total wages earned in the 4 weeks before the holiday by the number of days worked.
Do all statutory holidays shift their observance date if they fall on a weekend?
No, only specific holidays like New Year’s Day, Canada Day, Remembrance Day, and Christmas Day have provisions for being observed on another day if they fall on a weekend.
What are the official stat Holidays in Alberta?
See our other article explaining the 9 stats and 4 non stat general holidays in Alberta.
Alberta’s Weekend Stat Holidays Explained
Understanding the nuances of Alberta’s statutory holidays when they coincide with weekends is crucial for both employers and employees.
While some holidays have set observance rules, others remain on their designated dates, ensuring the significance of the day is upheld.
In Summary
- Specific statutory holidays in Alberta have rules for observance when they fall on weekends.
- Not all holidays shift their observance date if they fall on a weekend.
- Employees’ entitlements to statutory holiday pay vary based on the nature of the holiday and their work schedule.
