Ottawa Guide 2025: What is Closed on Remembrance Day?

Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion for reflection across Canada, and Ottawa, as the nation's capital, observes it with particular significance. Understanding what is open and what is closed on Remembrance Day is essential for residents to plan their day, whether attending a ceremony at the National War Memorial or simply navigating daily errands.

This guide provides a comprehensive, fact-checked breakdown of service changes and closures across the National Capital Region for November 11th. We've gathered all the key details you need to know, saving you the time and effort of searching multiple websites for accurate, up-to-date information.

From government services and public transit schedules to retail hours and recreational facility access, consider this your go-to resource. Here’s a clear look at what is closed on Remembrance Day in Ottawa, helping you manage your day with confidence and respect for the occasion. We will cover federal services, banks, Canada Post, schools, shopping centres, OC Transpo, and more.

1. Government Offices and Federal Services

On November 11th, government offices at all levels—federal, provincial, and municipal—are closed. This reflects the day's status as a federal statutory holiday, honouring Canada's veterans and fallen soldiers. For residents in Ottawa and the National Capital Region, this means in-person services will be unavailable.

This closure allows public servants to participate in commemorative ceremonies and pay their respects. It is a unified observance across the country, ensuring that the day is dedicated to reflection rather than routine administrative tasks.

Which Government Services Are Affected?

The closures are comprehensive and impact a wide range of public-facing services. It’s crucial to plan ahead if you need to access any of these facilities around November 11th.

• Federal Services: All Service Canada centres and passport offices will be closed. This affects applications for passports, social insurance numbers (SIN), Employment Insurance (EI), and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits.
• Provincial Services: In Ontario, all ServiceOntario centres will be closed. This means you cannot access in-person services for driver's licences, vehicle registrations, health cards, or birth certificates.
• Municipal Services: The City of Ottawa's client service centres, including those at City Hall (110 Laurier Avenue West) and Ben Franklin Place (101 Centrepointe Drive), will be closed. This also includes the Provincial Offences Act court at 100 Constellation Drive.

Pro Tip: While physical offices are closed, many government services remain accessible online 24/7. Tasks like renewing a licence plate sticker or applying for certain benefits can often be completed through official government websites, saving you a trip.

How to Plan for Government Service Closures

To avoid disruption, it is essential to manage any government-related errands before or after the holiday.

1. Check Your Deadlines: If you have documents expiring or payments due around November 11th, take care of them in the preceding week.
2. Book Appointments in Advance: For services that require an appointment, schedule it for the days before or after the holiday to secure a spot.
3. Utilize Online Portals: Familiarize yourself with the online services offered by the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario, and the City of Ottawa. Many transactions can be completed digitally, bypassing the need for an in-person visit entirely.

2. Banks and Financial Institutions

On November 11th, Canada's major financial institutions, including chartered banks and credit unions, close their physical branches to observe Remembrance Day. This is a standard practice in the financial sector, as Remembrance Day is a bank holiday under the federal Bills of Exchange Act. For residents in Ottawa and across the country, this means tellers, financial advisors, and other branch staff are unavailable.

This nationwide closure allows employees in the financial sector to participate in ceremonies and honour the sacrifices of veterans. While branches are closed, digital banking platforms and automated services remain operational, ensuring customers can still manage essential financial tasks.

Which Banking Services Are Affected?

The holiday impacts all in-person services, so it is important to understand what is available and what will be delayed until the next business day.

• Branch Closures: All major Canadian bank branches will be closed. This includes locations for Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), Scotiabank, Bank of Montreal (BMO), and CIBC across Ottawa and the country.
• In-Person Services: You will not be able to access services like opening a new account, applying for a loan or mortgage, making business deposits, or speaking with a financial advisor in person.
• Transaction Processing: While you can initiate online transactions like bill payments or e-Transfers, they may not be fully processed until the following business day. Cheques deposited via mobile app or ATM on November 11th will also experience a processing delay.

Pro Tip: Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) remain fully operational for cash withdrawals and deposits. If you just need cash, ATMs are your most reliable option on Remembrance Day.

How to Plan for Bank Closures

A little planning can help you avoid any financial inconvenience during the holiday.

1. Handle In-Person Tasks Early: Visit your local branch in the days leading up to November 11th for any services that require a teller or bank representative, such as getting a certified cheque or making a large business deposit.
2. Schedule Digital Payments in Advance: If you have important payments due on or around November 11th, schedule them online a few days earlier to ensure they are processed on time.
3. Utilize Mobile and Online Banking: Download your bank’s mobile app for convenient access to your accounts. You can check balances, transfer funds between accounts, and pay bills from anywhere, even when the physical branches are closed.

3. Canada Post Mail Services

As a federal Crown corporation, Canada Post observes Remembrance Day as a statutory holiday, meaning all mail services are suspended on November 11th. This is a significant aspect of what is closed on Remembrance Day, impacting everything from letter delivery to package shipments. For residents and businesses in Ottawa and across the National Capital Region, this means planning ahead for any postal needs is essential.

This nationwide pause in operations allows Canada Post employees to join fellow Canadians in honouring the country's veterans and those who have served. The closure ensures that the day is reserved for reflection and commemoration rather than regular business and postal logistics.

Which Postal Services Are Affected?

The holiday closure affects all primary functions of Canada Post, creating a one-day delay in the mail system. It is important to be aware of these specific suspensions.

• Mail Delivery: There will be no regular mail or parcel delivery to residential homes, businesses, or community mailboxes. This applies to all urban and rural mail routes.
• Post Office Counters: All corporate Canada Post retail locations will be closed. This means you cannot buy stamps, ship packages, or pick up items requiring a signature.
• Collection Boxes: Mail and parcels will not be collected from red street-side letterboxes or post office drop boxes. Items deposited on November 11th will be collected on the next business day.

Pro Tip: While corporate post offices are closed, some privately-owned postal outlets located within other retail stores (like pharmacies or grocery stores) may remain open. However, their hours can vary, so it's best to call ahead to confirm their operating status for the day.

How to Plan for Mail Service Suspensions

To avoid any inconvenience caused by the postal holiday, a little bit of planning can make all the difference, especially for time-sensitive documents or packages.

1. Ship Early: If you have an important item to send, mail it several business days before November 11th to account for potential delays. This is crucial for meeting deadlines.
2. Track Your Packages: Use Canada Post’s online tracking tools to monitor your shipments. This will give you the most accurate estimate of when your parcel will arrive, factoring in the holiday.
3. Consider Alternatives for Urgent Deliveries: If a delivery is urgent and cannot wait, you may need to use a private courier service like Purolator, FedEx, or UPS, as they often operate on different holiday schedules.

4. Public Schools and Educational Institutions

On November 11th, most public schools and post-secondary institutions pause their regular academic activities. While Remembrance Day is not a statutory holiday in Ontario, schools and post-secondary institutions typically close, allowing students and staff to participate in community ceremonies or reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans.

This closure serves a dual purpose: it honours the solemnity of the occasion and provides an educational opportunity. Many schools hold special assemblies in the days leading up to November 11th to teach students about Canada's military history, the significance of the poppy, and the importance of remembrance, ensuring the lessons of the day are not lost.

Which Educational Institutions Are Affected?

The approach to Remembrance Day can vary, so it is crucial for parents and students to confirm the status of their specific institution. In the Ottawa area, closures are widespread across the educational sector.

• Public and Catholic School Boards: All schools within the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), and the French-language boards are closed on November 11th.
• Post-Secondary Institutions: Major universities and colleges in the National Capital Region, such as the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and Algonquin College, suspend classes for the day. Administrative offices typically close as well.
• Private Schools and Daycares: The policies for private schools and childcare centres can differ. Many follow the public school board schedule and close, but some may remain open. Parents should verify directly with their provider.

Pro Tip: Check your school or institution's official academic calendar online at the beginning of the school year. These calendars are the most reliable source for information on holidays and professional activity (PA) days, helping you plan for childcare well in advance.

How to Plan for School Closures

A day off from school requires some coordination, especially for working parents. A little bit of planning can ensure the day is both managed smoothly and meaningful for children.

1. Arrange Childcare Early: If you need to work on November 11th, secure childcare arrangements as soon as you confirm the school closure. Spots at camps or with sitters can fill up quickly.
2. Attend Pre-Holiday Assemblies: Many schools invite families to their Remembrance Day assemblies. Attending is a great way to engage with your child’s learning and share in a moment of community reflection.
3. Participate in Local Ceremonies: Use the day off as an opportunity to take your children to a local Remembrance Day ceremony, such as the national service at the National War Memorial in downtown Ottawa. This provides a powerful real-world context for what they have learned in the classroom.

5. Retail Stores and Shopping Centres

On November 11th, many retail stores and shopping centres across Ottawa adjust their operations to honour Remembrance Day. Ontario does not have province-wide legislation mandating retail closures. Instead, the Retail Business Holidays Act does not list Remembrance Day as a mandatory closing day. However, many municipalities have by-laws, and many businesses voluntarily close or open late out of respect.

This operational shift allows retail employees and customers alike to attend local ceremonies or observe the two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. Knowing which stores are open is crucial to planning your day and avoiding a wasted trip.

Which Retailers Are Affected?

The impact on retail varies significantly, with large chains often following national policies while smaller, independent shops may make their own decisions. It's always best to verify hours before heading out.

• Major Shopping Malls: Centres like the Rideau Centre, Bayshore Shopping Centre, and St. Laurent Shopping Centre typically open later in the day, often around 12:30 p.m., after morning ceremonies have concluded.
• Large Retail Chains: Many large format stores adjust their hours. For example, Walmart locations often operate on a reduced schedule, while some department stores like Hudson's Bay may also delay opening.
• Grocery and Pharmacy: Most grocery stores and pharmacies remain open but with modified hours. Loblaws, Metro, and Sobeys stores often open in the afternoon, while pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart or Rexall may have limited hours, especially for their postal outlets.

Pro Tip: Many smaller convenience stores and gas stations are likely to remain open with regular hours. They can be a reliable alternative for picking up last-minute essential items when larger stores are closed.

How to Plan Your Remembrance Day Shopping

To navigate the retail closures and adjusted hours smoothly, a little bit of planning goes a long way.

1. Check Hours Online: The most reliable way to confirm if a store is open is to check its official website or Google Maps listing on the day. Many businesses post their holiday hours in advance.
2. Shop Ahead of Time: Purchase any groceries, prescriptions, or other necessities on November 10th or earlier to avoid being caught by closures or reduced hours.
3. Support Local Businesses: Some independent shops may be open. If you need to make a purchase, consider visiting a local business, but be sure to call ahead to confirm their operating hours.

6. Public Transportation Systems

On November 11th, public transportation systems like OC Transpo operate on modified schedules, a crucial detail when considering what is closed on Remembrance Day. While not fully closed, services are often reduced to a Sunday or holiday schedule to reflect lower ridership and allow employees to observe the day. This is a common practice across major Canadian cities, ensuring essential transit remains available while acknowledging the holiday's solemnity.

For those in Ottawa, this means planning your travel in advance is key, especially if you intend to attend ceremonies at the National War Memorial. OC Transpo often provides special service to accommodate attendees, but regular routes will see less frequent service throughout the day.

Which Public Transit Services Are Affected?

The schedule changes on Remembrance Day are comprehensive and affect bus routes, the O-Train, and Para Transpo. It’s important to verify the specific schedule for your route before heading out.

• OC Transpo Buses: Most bus routes will operate on a Sunday schedule. This means less frequent service and some routes may not run at all. Check the official OC Transpo website for specific route timings.
• O-Train Line 1: The Confederation Line will also run on a Sunday schedule, with trains arriving less frequently than on a typical weekday.
• Para Transpo: Para Transpo will operate on a holiday service schedule. All regularly scheduled trips are automatically cancelled, so users must rebook any travel required for November 11th.
• STO (Société de transport de l'Outaouais): For those travelling to or from Gatineau, the STO typically operates on a Saturday schedule or a special reduced schedule on Remembrance Day.

Pro Tip: Veterans in uniform or displaying their medals, along with one companion, can often ride OC Transpo, Para Transpo, and STO services for free on November 11th. This is a small gesture of thanks for their service, facilitating their travel to commemorative events.

How to Plan for Transit Service Changes

To navigate the city smoothly on Remembrance Day, a little planning goes a long way.

1. Use a Transit App: Check the OC Transpo app or a third-party app like Google Maps for real-time bus and train schedules. These are updated to reflect the holiday service.
2. Allow Extra Time: With reduced frequency, your usual travel time will likely be longer. Leave earlier than you normally would to ensure you arrive at your destination on time.
3. Plan Your Ceremony Route: If attending the national ceremony, look for special OC Transpo service announcements. Buses may be detoured around downtown streets closed for the event, so plan your route to and from the memorial accordingly. You can also learn more about transit accessibility programs like the low-income bus pass for future planning.

7. Libraries and Recreation Centres

On November 11th, municipal facilities like public libraries and recreation centres are typically closed, which is an important aspect of what is closed on Remembrance Day. As these venues are operated by local governments, they follow the same holiday schedule to allow staff and the community to attend commemorative events. For residents in Ottawa and the National Capital Region, this means local hubs for learning, fitness, and community gatherings will be unavailable for the day.

This pause in regular services provides an opportunity for reflection and participation in Remembrance Day ceremonies. While some centres may host special commemorative programming in the days leading up to November 11th, the day itself is reserved for honouring Canada's veterans.

Which Public Facilities Are Affected?

The closure of these community spaces is widespread, affecting a range of services that residents rely on for education, health, and leisure. It's wise to check your local municipality's schedule in advance.

• Public Libraries: All branches of the Ottawa Public Library will be closed. This means no in-person borrowing, computer access, or programming will be available.
• Community and Recreation Centres: All City of Ottawa recreation and cultural facilities, including community centres, arenas, and swimming pools, will be closed for public access.
• Specialized Facilities: This also includes City-run arts centres, theatres, and galleries. Registered programs are typically cancelled unless otherwise specified.

Pro Tip: Many libraries, including the Ottawa Public Library, offer extensive digital collections accessible 24/7. You can borrow e-books, audiobooks, and stream movies or music from home with your library card, even when the physical branches are closed.

How to Plan for Library and Recreation Closures

To avoid any inconvenience, a little bit of planning can ensure you still have access to entertainment and activities during the holiday.

1. Return Items Early: If you have library books or other materials due on or around November 11th, be sure to return them in the days prior to avoid late fees. Many locations have 24-hour drop boxes, but it's best to confirm.
2. Plan Alternative Activities: Since gyms and pools will be closed, consider alternative fitness options like a walk or run through a local park or an at-home workout.
3. Explore Local Programming: If you're looking for a community centre near you, check their websites in the week before Remembrance Day for any special virtual or pre-recorded events related to the occasion.

Remembrance Day Closures Comparison of 7 Sectors

Item	Implementation Complexity 🔄	Resource Requirements ⚡	Expected Outcomes 📊	Ideal Use Cases 💡	Key Advantages ⭐
Government Offices and Federal Services	Moderate – full closure coordination	High – managing emergency services and communication	Unified national observance, employee participation	Public access to government services, ceremonies	Demonstrates government respect, supports ceremonies
Banks and Financial Institutions	Low – branch closures, ATM and online active	Moderate – maintain digital and ATM services	Limited access, delayed complex transactions	Basic banking needs, cash access via ATMs	Employees observe remembrance, partial service access
Canada Post Mail Services	Moderate – suspend deliveries, close offices	High – halting extensive mail routes and retail	Mail and package delays, worker participation	Mail delivery services and retail access	Respects statutory holiday, ensures worker observance
Public Schools and Educational Institutions	Moderate – closures and event coordination	Moderate – arrange assemblies, alternate schedules	Student education on remembrance, school attendance off	K-12 and higher education observance	Educates youth, facilitates community participation
Retail Stores and Shopping Centers	Low to moderate – variable closures	Low to moderate – shutting or reducing store hours	Reduced shopping access, lost revenue	Retail operations respecting holiday	Employees observe day, corporate respect shown
Public Transportation Systems	Moderate – schedule adjustments	Moderate – run limited and special routes	Reduced service, access to ceremonies	Public transit on statutory holidays	Maintains essential mobility, supports ceremonies
Libraries and Recreation Centers	Low to moderate – full facility closures	Moderate – cancel programs, close venues	Limited recreation, cancelled programs	Community and municipal facility management	Staff participation, thematic programming

A Day for Reflection in the Capital

Navigating Remembrance Day in Ottawa and the National Capital Region requires a blend of planning and reverence. While the temporary pause in many daily services might seem like an inconvenience, it is a deliberate and necessary measure. It carves out a dedicated space in our civic life for solemn reflection, honouring the sacrifices made by veterans and active service members. By understanding what is closed on Remembrance Day, from federal government offices to local libraries, residents can effectively plan their day and, more importantly, free up their time to participate in meaningful commemoration.

The key takeaway from this guide is the importance of verification. While we’ve outlined the general rules for major institutions like banks, Canada Post, and public schools, exceptions always exist. Retail is a prime example of this variability; large shopping centres often operate on reduced hours, while smaller independent shops may choose to close entirely. Public transit schedules are also modified, not just reduced, to accommodate the significant crowds drawn to ceremonies like the one at the National War Memorial. Being proactive is the best strategy.

Your Action Plan for November 11th

To ensure your Remembrance Day is both smooth and meaningful, consider these final steps:

• Confirm Specific Timings: If you need to access any service, even one listed as open, call ahead or check their website a day or two before. This is especially true for grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants, as their hours can vary by location.
• Plan Your Commute: If you plan to attend a ceremony, review the OC Transpo or STO special service schedules. Expect road closures around key commemorative sites, particularly in downtown Ottawa, and plan your travel time accordingly.
• Embrace the Purpose of the Day: The closures are not just a holiday; they are a sign of collective respect. This is an opportunity to engage with the community, perhaps by attending a local ceremony, visiting a cenotaph, or simply taking a moment for quiet contemplation at 11 a.m.

Ultimately, mastering the logistics of Remembrance Day closures in the NCR is about more than just avoiding a locked door. It's about respecting the day's profound significance. This foresight allows you to manage your errands effectively, ensuring that when the moment comes to pause and remember, you can be fully present. The rhythm of the city slows for a reason, inviting us all to participate in a shared act of gratitude and remembrance that defines our national character and strengthens our community bonds.

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