Retail Closings During Easter Holidays

Shoppers and merchants are reminded that under the Retail Business Holidays Act, both Good Friday – April 18, 2025 and Easter Sunday – April 21, 2025, are among the designated holidays annually when most retail stores must be closed.

The Act, administered by the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services, exempts some retail operations, including but not limited to, gas stations, gardening centres and flower shops.

There are fines for opening on prohibited days of retail operation. Retail outlets found guilty may be fined up $50,000 or the total amount of gross sales for the day, whichever is greater. Enforcement of the Retail Business Holidays Act in the City of Stratford is the responsibility of Stratford Police Services.

To find out which retail operations are exempted by the Act, please call the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services toll-free at 1-844-286-8404. For more information, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/retail-business-holidays