National Patriots' Day in 2025

When is National Patriots' Day in Canada?

National Patriots' Day is a regional Canadian statutory holiday observed in the province of Quebec on the Monday before May 25th each year.

National Patriots' Day (Journée nationale des patriotes) is a commemoration of the Lower Canada Rebellion of 1837. This holiday is celebrated on the same day as Victoria Day.

History of National Patriots' Day in Quebec

Following early exploration in the 16th century, the French established a colony in this part of modern-day Canada in the 17th century. This became French Canada and Quebec City was founded in 1608.

The French ceded it's territories to the British under the Treaty of Paris in 1763, after Great Britain's victory over France and Spain during the Seven Year's War.

Inspired by the American Revolution and movements towards independence in other parts of the Americas, the Patriote movement grew in popularity as a reaction against British colonial rule over what was previously French territory. Mainly a political movement, it led to the Lower Canada Rebellions of 1837 and 1838. These insurrections were eventually suppressed by the British military, but the actions of the rebels are seen as a key part of the history of Quebec and its enduring sense of identity.

To honour and remember the sacrifice of the Quebec rebels, National Patriots' Day was declared a public holiday in 2003. It replaced an unofficial holiday called 'la Fete de Dollard' which honoured a 17th-century military hero, Adam Dollard des Ormeaux.

On National Patriots' Day, all city, state, and government offices in Quebec are closed. Schools, post offices, banks, and libraries are also closed. Public transport will run on a reduced holiday schedule.