Islander Day

A day celebrated by residents of Prince Edward Island, Canada, Islander Day marks a day off for the communities and is a statutory holiday. It falls on the third Monday in February and is part of Heritage Week, a time of celebration for different parts of wider Canada. Sometimes known as Family Day, let’s take a look at how it came about.

What Is Islander Day?

Established by the Prince Edward Island government in 2009, it originally fell on the second Monday of the month. This changed to bring it in line with other celebrations from other territories and provinces. All schools and municipal government offices close on this day. Most people celebrate by hitting the ski resorts or staying local to skate and sled the day away.

With an emphasis on family, it is a time when two-thirds of the population take time off to spend with one another. The island itself only measures 139 miles long and 40 miles wide, making it the smallest province and the only island.

How To Observe Islander Day

The most effective way to observe the day is to delve deeper into the history of the island. It might be small, but there is a lot to do there beyond the chilly sports and lighthouse spotting (there are 63 on the island). Many people choose to visit the Winter Fest as it is one of the top attractions in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.

Beyond that, speak to your Canadian friends and ask how they observe it. Also, be sure to use the hashtag #IslanderDay to see exactly what others are up to. This is where you may see some of the family-led celebrations where Prince Edward Islanders get together to celebrate one another in different ways.

Where is it celebrated?
Canada (Common local holidays) - Prince edward island
When is it?
This year (2024)
February 19 Monday
Next year (2025)
February 17 Monday
Last year (2023)
February 20 Monday