Easter Weekend in Ottawa: A Modified Schedule
Ottawa's Easter weekend lineup looks different than a typical Saturday and Sunday. With the long weekend stretching from Good Friday through Easter Monday, many residents are wondering what services will be available when they need them.
Banks and Financial Services
Most Canadian banks in Ottawa will be closed on Good Friday (April 18th) and Easter Monday (April 21st). If you need banking services, plan ahead or use online/mobile options. ATMs will remain operational throughout the weekend, so cash withdrawals won't be an issue.
Government Services
City of Ottawa offices will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday, following the federal holiday schedule. If you need to renew a driver's license, pay property taxes, or access other municipal services, make arrangements before the long weekend. Some services like 311 Ottawa (call or online) may have limited availability.
Transit and Transportation
OC Transpo will operate a modified holiday schedule throughout Easter weekend. Routes will run on reduced frequency — similar to statutory holiday schedules — so check the OC Transpo website or app before heading out. The Confederation Line and Trillium Line will also run on holiday schedules. If you're planning to use the LRT, arrive earlier than usual and expect longer waits between trains.
Retail and Shopping
Most major Ottawa shopping malls and big-box retailers will be open during Easter weekend, though some locations may have reduced hours. Small boutiques in neighborhoods like Westboro, The Glebe, and the Market may close for the long weekend — call ahead if you're planning a shopping trip. Grocery stores like Loblaws, Metro, and Food Basics will operate with modified hours, with some locations opening late and closing early on Good Friday.
Restaurants and Cafés
Ottawa's restaurant scene is fairly active over Easter weekend, with many establishments remaining open. However, hours vary — some close on Good Friday for religious observance, while others pivot to brunch service. Popular spots in the Market, the Byward, and Preston Street should call or check their websites for weekend hours. Delivery and takeout options will be widely available.
Libraries and Recreation
Ottawa Public Library branches will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Recreation facilities and city pools will also be closed on those days, though some community centers may offer limited programming. If you're planning a visit to a local park or pathway, they remain open year-round.
Hospitals and Healthcare
All hospitals and emergency services in Ottawa operate 24/7 with no holiday closures. Pharmacies have varying hours — some grocery store pharmacies close on Good Friday and Easter Monday, while others remain open. Check with your local Shoppers Drug Mart or independent pharmacy ahead of time.
Planning Your Easter Weekend
Before the long weekend starts, stock up on essentials, top up your transit pass, and confirm hours for any businesses you're planning to visit. Many Ottawans use Easter weekend to catch up on local events, visit the market, or enjoy the early spring weather at local parks.
Source: CTV News Ottawa
