Ottawa residents gearing up for Canada Day festivities may want to stock up on supplies before the holiday hits — because not every store will be running on its usual schedule on July 1.
What to Expect from Grocery Stores
Most major grocery chains in Ottawa — including Metro, Loblaws, FreshCo, and Farm Boy — typically operate on reduced holiday hours on Canada Day. That means earlier closing times and, in some cases, later openings. While many locations do stay open, hours can vary significantly by store location, so it's worth calling ahead or checking the retailer's website before making the trip.
Smaller independent grocery stores and ethnic food markets may close entirely for the holiday, while big-box retailers like Walmart and Costco often maintain modified hours.
LCBO and Beer Store Hours
For those planning to pick up drinks for a backyard barbecue or Canada Day gathering, the LCBO and Beer Store both typically operate on statutory holiday hours on July 1. That generally means shorter windows — often 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. — though flagship and high-traffic Ottawa locations may stay open a little later.
The LCBO publishes its holiday hours on its website ahead of major statutory holidays, and it's always a good idea to confirm your local store's schedule before heading out. Running into a locked door on a holiday is never fun.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Surprises
Canada Day falls on a Tuesday this year, which means the long weekend effect is a little different — many people will be celebrating on the actual day rather than spreading it across a full weekend. That often translates to busier stores in the days leading up to July 1, so shopping Monday afternoon is a smart move if you want to avoid lineups.
For Ottawa residents hosting gatherings at places like Mooney's Bay, Britannia Beach, or Major's Hill Park, making a grocery run the night before can save you from a scramble on the day itself.
Pharmacy and Other Retail
Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall in Ottawa typically remain open on Canada Day, often with reduced hours. Most specialty retailers and boutiques will be closed or running limited schedules, so don't count on a full shopping day.
When in doubt, a quick Google search for your specific store will usually pull up holiday hours in real time — Google often sources this directly from retailers and updates it ahead of statutory holidays.
The Bottom Line
Ottawa's Canada Day is one of the biggest celebrations in the country, drawing hundreds of thousands of people to Parliament Hill and along the Rideau Canal. Most residents will be focused on fireworks and festivities — but a little planning around store hours goes a long way toward keeping the day stress-free.
Check hours online before you go, shop early if you can, and enjoy one of the best Canada Day parties in the country right here in the capital.
Source: CityNews Ottawa via Google News
