As the last long weekend of summer arrives, Labour Day Toronto will see many businesses, services, and attractions adjusting their schedules. While most government offices and banks will remain closed, residents and visitors still have plenty of options to enjoy around the city. From the Canadian International Air Show to the Toronto Labour Day Parade, the holiday weekend offers both celebrations and challenges in planning daily activities.
Major Attractions Remain Open
The 2025 Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) wraps up its annual 18-day run this Labour Day, drawing thousands of visitors for one last summer outing. The Canadian International Air Show will soar across the Toronto waterfront from 12 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, marking its 76th year.
Other attractions including the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Casa Loma, and both the Toronto Zoo and High Park Zoo will remain open. Canada’s Wonderland will also welcome guests from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Labour Day. Museums are adjusting their hours, with the Royal Ontario Museum open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while the Art Gallery of Ontario operates between 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Woodbine Park hosts the Toronto International BuskerFest through Monday evening, offering circus acts, daredevils, and street performances. Dog lovers can head to Bark in the Park TO at sunset or take part in the final dog swim of the season at 10 outdoor pools across the city on Sunday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
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Labour Day Parade and Road Closures
Toronto’s annual Labour Day Parade will once again highlight the contributions of workers. More than 20,000 labour members will march on Monday morning, beginning at 9:30 a.m. from Queen Street West and University Avenue, before heading to the CNE grounds.
Road closures will be in effect around downtown to accommodate the parade. Toronto police encourage residents to check their website for updated traffic information before making travel plans.
Shopping Malls and Retail Hours
Shopping centres across the Greater Toronto Area will operate with mixed schedules on Labour Day. The Toronto Eaton Centre will remain open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., along with Vaughan Mills and Pacific Mall, which will close at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. respectively.
Several malls will close entirely, including Dufferin Mall, Fairview Mall, Sherway Gardens, and Scarborough Town Centre. Others, such as Square One, Upper Canada Mall, and CF Markville, will operate with reduced hours from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Yorkdale Mall shops will remain closed, though select restaurants and the Cineplex theatre will open.
Grocery, Pharmacies, and Liquor Stores
Most grocery stores will continue normal operations over the weekend, but some locations will close or reduce hours on Labour Day. St. Lawrence Market, a popular destination for fresh produce and specialty items, will be closed on Monday.
Drugstores, including major chains, are expected to operate under holiday hours. LCBO outlets across Ontario will close, though select Beer Store and Wine Rack locations may remain open. Shoppers are advised to check with their local branch before heading out.
Public Transit Adjustments
Transit schedules will also see changes. The TTC will run on regular weekend hours for Saturday and Sunday but switch to its holiday schedule on Monday. GO Transit will follow a similar pattern, with Labour Day services operating on a Saturday timetable.
Officials urge commuters to visit the TTC and GO Transit websites for real-time updates, as some routes may be altered due to the Labour Day Parade.
Government Services and Libraries
Municipal and federal offices, including ServiceOntario and Service Canada, will close on Labour Day. Banks will also shut their doors, and no Canada Post mail delivery will take place.
All branches of the Toronto Public Library will close on both Sunday and Monday. Emergency services, however, will continue without interruption.
A Holiday Balancing Rest and Celebration
With most government offices closed and many retail stores shuttered, Labour Day Toronto remains a time for residents to reflect on the history of the labour movement while enjoying the final stretch of summer. Between bustling parades, thrilling air shows, and family attractions, the city offers plenty of ways to mark the long weekend—even as many services take a pause.
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