Since we already know Monday, September 19, the new holiday in honour of Queen Elizabeth II, is not a day off for Ontarians, some may wonder what it means for cities like Toronto. Premier Doug Ford announced the province would not give a statutory holiday to Ontarians but rather it would be a “provincial day of mourning.”

It is a federal holiday for government employees thanks to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which means you shouldn’t expect Canada Post to deliver your packages that day. In a statement issued by the Canadian mail courier, they declare September 19 as a one-time day of mourning for its employees.

“As a result, there will be no mail collection or delivery and our post offices will be closed on Monday, September 19. Those in franchise locations may be open during the host business’s hours.”

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Though Ford decided against making the day a statutory holiday, he said that Ontarians may have a moment of silence at 1 p.m. He encouraged all to reflect on the Queen’s life, including students to learn about the many contributions Her Majesty made to the people of Ontario.

Consider everything to be open and running as usual but some businesses may take a moment of silence on Monday. Here’s what you should know:

City Hall’s Peace Garden

City officials and staff will have a moment of silence – 96 seconds, in City Hall’s Peace Garden on Monday. According to the city, the Peace Garden was dedicated to the Queen in 1984 when she visited City Hall.

Old City Hall

Bells will be ringing! The bell at the Old City Hall tower will ring 96 times, once per minute starting at 1 p.m.

City ferries

City ferries will halt for 96 seconds and sound their horns at the start and end of the tribute, according to the city.

TTC

The TTC will be running as usual however they will pause services for EXACTLY 96 seconds at 1 p.m., on Monday.

Banks

Despite the day being marked as a statutory holiday in other provinces, Canadian banks will remain open. According to the Canadian Bankers Association, they will have a moment of silence on Monday in honour of the Queen.

Schools

Toronto schools will remain open. Sorry kids!

Malls

All malls will remain open so you can still get your shopping in.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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