Islander Day 2024 (Canada): An annual statutory holiday, Islander Day, is observed on the third Monday of February, which falls on February 19 this year. This event is for residents of the Canadian jurisdiction of Prince Edward Island (PEI). In observance of this day, educational institutions and provincial offices typically close, granting employees the opportunity to enjoy a day off.
The purpose of the holiday is to provide individuals with a much-needed opportunity to unwind, pursue personal interests and pastimes, and spend quality time with family and friends. Spending the day perusing your favorite book or catching up with a friend is an excellent excuse. You are free to do whatever you desire on this day.
Islander Day 2024 (Canada) History
Curious as to how this laid-back holiday originated? Consider the following as a preview of the background:. 2008. marked the inaugural observance of Islander Day. In 2007, upon being elected premier of PEI, Robert Ghiz pledged to institute a new island holiday. The following year, he fulfilled his word and declared that the holiday would afford all residents of his province the chance to partake in communal activities and family/personal leisure. With the endorsement of the provincial legislature, it was formally designated as a statutory holiday on November 28, 2008.
Initially, the holiday was designated for the second Monday of February, with February 9, 2009, marked as the first observance. This, however, became a concern for employees of the federal government. The Public Service Alliance of Canada determined that these employees would be required to decide between an August federal government holiday and Islander Day. Later, the then-Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs of the island, Carolyn Bertram, brought the matter to the attention of the Federal Minister of Labour, Rona Ambrose. Bertram stated that employees throughout the province were expected to receive a paid holiday on Islander Day. As the provincial government lacked authority over a federal collective bargaining agreement, Ambrose consented to investigate the issue. After conducting additional deliberation, the federal committee modified the date to the third Monday of February, effective as of 2010.
Bertram’s endeavors and Ghiz’s assurance have granted us a lengthy weekend to relax and enjoy ourselves—a much-needed respite from our professional obligations.
National Battery Day 2024 (US): History, FAQs, Dates, Activities, and Facts About batteries
Daytona Pole Day 2024 (US): Activities, History, FAQs, Dates, and Facts About Daytona Beach, Florida
National Drink Wine Day 2024 (US): FAQs, Dates, History, Activities, and Facts
FAQs Regarding Islander Day
Is Islander Day technically a holiday?
Certain residents of the province of Prince Edward Island observe it as a statutory holiday.
Do businesses reopen for Islander Day?
On Islander Day, many businesses, restaurants, and services will be closed. It would be advisable to contact a store or restaurant in advance to ensure that they are operational.
What enjoyable activities are available on Islander Day?
There are numerous opportunities to savor your day of liberation. Off the Wall Trampoline Park provides an alternative option, while the footpaths of Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park provide an alternative source of excitement.
Islander Day 2024 (Canada) Activities
Unwind and savor a day alone.
Abandon your hectic schedule and unwind with a cup of hot chocolate on this day off. We adore the notion of spending a cozy evening together with your children, perhaps even watching a “Harry Potter” marathon.
Engage in a wintry excursion
Today is an ideal time to visit Mark Arendz Provincial Ski Park in Brookvale, hike up the Cardigan trail, or go sledding in Souris, if you have a passion for the great outdoors. Conversely, spend the day attending the Alberton Winter Carnival.
Delight in a yoga retreat.
Although you’ve likely heard of yoga, have you ever considered snog? Yoga in the snow, indeed! It does sound intriguing, doesn’t it? On Islander Day, wrap up warmly and practice yoga in the snowy landscape for a revitalizing experience.
Five essential Prince Edward Island facts
The tiniest province in Canada
PEI is the smallest province in Canada in terms of both land area and population.
Where Lucy Maud Montgomery resided
Lucy Maud Montgomery, the renowned author of “Anne of Green Gables,” made her birthplace in Prince Edward Island.
Initially inhabited
The island was originally inhabited by the Mi’kmaq, who bestowed upon it the appellation “Epekwitk,” which signified its location “on the water.”
An account of two communities
PEI, the smallest province in Canada, is comprised of a mere two urban centers, namely Summerside and Charlottetown, which serve as its capital.
No property demarcation
Without a terrestrial boundary, the island province is the only one in Canada.
ISLANDER DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 19 | Monday |
| 2025 | February 17 | Monday |
| 2026 | February 16 | Monday |
