ARTICLE · 23 JUNE 2016

Heritage Day – Alberta's Hybrid Holiday

Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP

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If an employer designates Heritage Day as a general holiday, then all of the rules pertaining to general holidays and general holiday compensation will apply to employees.

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Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP

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This upcoming August 1 will mark Heritage Day in Alberta, when many Albertans will recognize Canada's diversity and celebrate the nation's cultural heritage. However, Heritage Day is neither a nation-wide holiday, nor is it enjoyed by all employees in Alberta.

Employers are faced with a recurring question on the first Monday of each August: whether to grant an additional holiday to their employees.

Heritage Day in Alberta is optional - employees may be afforded a paid vacation day, depending on the employer.

The Employment Standards Code of Alberta specifically designates nine days as general holidays in Alberta:

New Year's Day
Alberta Family Day
Good Friday
Victoria Day

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