Montreal residents are being encouraged to prepare ahead of Quebec National Day and Canada Day as two of the city’s busiest summer holidays bring widespread closures and modified schedules across retail, government and municipal services.
Whether you’re planning grocery shopping, banking, sightseeing or commuting, understanding what will be available on June 24 and July 1 could help avoid last-minute disruptions. While many offices, stores and public services will shut down for the holidays, several essential services and popular attractions will continue operating.
Major closures residents should expect
Both Quebec National Day on June 24 and Canada Day on July 1 will result in the closure of most federal and provincial government offices across Montreal. Schools, banks and Canada Post services will also be unavailable during the holidays.
Retail operations will be significantly reduced. Shopping malls, SAQ stores and SQDC locations are expected to remain closed, while most major grocery store chains will not operate for the day.
Because both holidays fall in the middle of the week in 2026, residents who normally rely on weekday access to government services, banking or grocery shopping may want to complete errands in advance.
Essential services will remain available
Despite the broad list of closures, many everyday services will continue operating. Pharmacies, depanneurs, gas stations and hospitals will remain open, although some locations may use modified holiday hours.
Movie theatres and ecocentres are also expected to welcome visitors during both holidays. Residents should still verify hours directly with individual businesses before travelling.
Public transportation services across Montreal will continue operating but on holiday schedules rather than standard weekday timetables. Riders should allow extra time and review schedules before leaving home.
Popular attractions staying open during the holidays
Families looking for activities during the holiday period will still have access to several of Montreal’s best-known attractions.
The Biodôme, Biosphère, Jardin botanique, Insectarium and PlanÊtarium are all scheduled to remain open. These destinations often experience increased visitor numbers during public holidays, making advance ticket purchases a practical option for those hoping to avoid long queues.
For Canadians travelling beyond Quebec during the holiday week, similar service interruptions are expected nationwide. Readers can review what’s open and closed across Canada on Canada Day 2026 for a broader overview of closures affecting banks, retailers, transit systems and public services.
Garbage collection and borough services affected
Municipal services will not operate normally in every borough during the holiday period.
Garbage collection in Lachine, Ville-Marie and VillerayâSaint-MichelâParc-Extension will either be cancelled or rescheduled. Residents in those areas should consult local notices to confirm updated collection dates.
Sports facilities and cultural centres may also operate on different schedules depending on the borough. Since opening hours can vary significantly by location, checking directly with local facilities remains the most reliable option.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste parade returns to Montreal
One of the highlights of Quebec National Day is the annual Saint-Jean-Baptiste parade, which is expected to draw large crowds once again.
This year’s parade will begin at the intersection of Rachel Street East and Molson Street before proceeding east along Rachel Street and concluding at D’Orleans Avenue.
Motorists and transit users should anticipate temporary traffic restrictions and increased congestion near the parade route throughout the event.
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How to avoid holiday disruptions
Holiday closures can create challenges for residents who wait until the last minute for essential errands. Grocery shopping, banking transactions, postal services and purchases from SAQ or SQDC locations should be completed before June 24 and July 1.
Residents planning to visit attractions, attend events or travel around the city should also confirm opening hours and transportation schedules in advance. Small adjustments in planning can help avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smoother holiday experience.
While Montreal will remain active during both celebrations, the city will operate on a noticeably different schedule. Knowing what is open, what is closed and where services are changing can help residents make the most of the holiday period.
For official municipal updates and service notices, residents can visit the City of Montreal.
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