Thanksgiving Day on Monday, October 13, 2025, is a statutory holiday in Ontario. This includes Toronto and many other cities across the province. Most businesses and city services will close to observe the holiday. Residents and visitors should plan accordingly, as several key services will operate on altered schedules or remain closed.
Public Transport and Transit Services
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will run holiday service on Thanksgiving Day. All TTC routes will operate on Sunday schedules and start earlier, around 6 a.m. Similarly, GO Transit will run on a Saturday schedule, providing reduced service compared to weekdays. Riders should check specific routes and times in advance to avoid disruptions.
Government Services and Public Facilities
Government offices, including city halls and Service Ontario locations, will close for the holiday. Banks and Canada Post offices will also not operate on Monday. Toronto Public Library branches will remain closed on both Sunday, October 12, and Monday, October 13. Despite this, online library services will be accessible for borrowing books and digital content.
Post Offices will remain closed today
Shopping Malls and Retail Stores
Several shopping centres in Toronto and surrounding Ontario cities will close their doors for Thanksgiving Monday, October 13, 2025. However, some malls will operate with reduced hours to accommodate holiday shoppers. The following list details which major shopping centres will remain closed and which will open with limited hours on the holiday.
- Scarborough Town Centre: Closed
- Yorkdale Shopping Centre: Closed
- Fairview Mall: Closed
- Sherway Gardens: Closed
- Toronto Eaton Centre: Open 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Pacific Mall: Open 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- CF Markville: Open 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Square One Shopping Centre: Open 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Toronto Premium Outlets: Open 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Vaughan Mills: Open 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Promenade Shopping Centre: Open 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Retail stores in designated tourist areas such as Downtown Yonge BIA, Queens Quay West, the Distillery Historic District and Bloor-Yorkville will remain open. This exemption supports local tourism and entertainment.
Grocery Stores and Pharmacies
Most major grocery store chains will close on Thanksgiving Day. Loblaws, Metro, No Frills, Costco and Walmart will generally not be open. Some exceptions exist for specific locations; checking with the individual store is recommended. Select Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall pharmacies will stay open, although hours may vary. Residents are advised to confirm opening times with local pharmacies.
Major grocery store chains like Walmart to remain closed
Alcohol and Beverage Outlets
Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) stores will close on the holiday. The Beer Store locations will also remain shut. A few Wine Rack outlets have announced they will open; consumers should contact their local store about holiday hours. Grocery stores that sell beer, wine and cider may serve customers, so some alcohol beverage sales remain available during the holiday.
City Services and Waste Collection
Toronto city garbage collection will not occur on Monday, October 13. The regular pickup schedule will shift by one day for affected residents, meaning collection will happen later in the week. Residents should check the Toronto city waste management resources for their adjusted pickup day.
Community centres, including all programs run by the city’s agencies, will be closed for the holiday. Residents planning activities or events should expect limited access to municipal facilities.
Also Read: Gaza Hostages Set for Release as Israel and Hamas Advance Ceasefire Agreement
Events and Things to Do on Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving Weekend in Toronto offers various public events and activities. The Toronto Pumpkinfest and Pumpkinville Toronto feature fall-themed entertainment and attractions for families. Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland will operate with special shows and rides.
The Toronto Turkey Trot, a popular community run, walk and dog-friendly event, will take place at Cherry Beach on Monday. Participants are encouraged to wear turkey costumes.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving Day on October 13, 2025, brings closures to many Toronto and Ontario city services. Most government offices, public libraries, banks, postal services, and major retail outlets will be closed. Transit services will operate on holiday or reduced schedules. Some malls and retail stores in tourist areas will remain open with limited hours. Grocery stores and pharmacies largely close, with few exceptions. Residents should plan shopping and appointments accordingly to avoid inconvenience. Local events and outdoor activities offer opportunities to enjoy the holiday in the city.
