Islander Day
205 days until Islander Day
About Islander Day
Islander Day is a provincial statutory holiday in Prince Edward Island, observed on the third Monday of February. It provides residents with a welcome mid-winter break to relax and spend time with family.
History
The holiday was introduced by the Prince Edward Island government in 2009 to create a statutory day off during the long gap between New Year's Day and Good Friday. In its inaugural year, Islander Day was celebrated on the second Monday of February.
Following feedback from business owners and residents, the provincial legislature voted to shift the holiday to the third Monday of February starting in 2010. This change brought Prince Edward Island into alignment with other Canadian provinces observing Family Day, as well as federal workers and financial markets.
Traditions & Celebrations
Islanders typically spend the day enjoying winter recreational activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing. Municipalities across the island often organise family-friendly community events, public skates, and winter carnivals, while many families choose to gather indoors for shared meals and winter relaxation.
Did you know?
- In 2009, Prince Edward Island was the only jurisdiction in Canada to hold a statutory holiday on the second Monday of February.
- The official name was chosen following public consultation and input from island residents prior to the holiday's establishment.
- Moving Islander Day to the third Monday of February in 2010 aligned it with statutory holidays in several other provinces, including Nova Scotia Heritage Day and New Brunswick Family Day.
Islander Day dates by year
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Islander Day a national holiday across Canada?
No, Islander Day is a provincial statutory holiday exclusive to Prince Edward Island, though several other provinces observe their own statutory holidays on the same Monday.
When is Islander Day celebrated?
Islander Day takes place every year on the third Monday of February.
Why was Islander Day moved from the second Monday to the third Monday of February?
The date was adjusted in 2010 to align PEI's mid-winter holiday with Family Day in other provinces, making scheduling easier for national businesses and travel.