The May long weekend is officially here and for most Albertans, that means a three-day stretch with Monday, May 18 off for Victoria Day.
Before you make plans, here's what's actually open, what's not, and what's worth doing across the province.
What Is Victoria Day?
Victoria Day marks the birthday of Queen Victoria, born May 24, 1819. In Canada, it's observed on the Monday before May 25 each year which puts it on May 18 in 2026. It's a federal statutory holiday in Alberta, and for most people, it's the unofficial start of summer.
What's Closed on Monday
Banks are closed. Federal and provincial government offices are shut. Canada Post isn't delivering. Schools are out.
Calgary Transit runs on a Sunday holiday schedule. Edmonton Transit does the same. If you're relying on the bus or LRT Monday, check your route's holiday schedule before you head out.
Liquor Stores: Alberta Is Different
This is the question everyone asks and the answer here is better than anywhere else in Canada.
Alberta's liquor stores are privately owned and operated. That means they're not subject to the same government-mandated holiday closures that shut down the LCBO in Ontario or BC Liquor stores in B.C. Most Alberta liquor stores will be open Monday. Hours vary by location, so call ahead or check your store directly but don't assume they're closed, because most aren't.
Cannabis stores follow the same private model and are generally open on stat holidays as well.
Groceries, Pharmacies, Everything Else
Most grocery stores are open with reduced hours. Costco is typically closed on stat holidays don't count on it. Shoppers Drug Mart locations are generally open. Gas stations and convenience stores run as normal. Restaurants and patios are open, and if the weather cooperates, expect lineups on 17th Ave and Whyte Ave.
What to Do in Calgary This Weekend
Otafest runs through Sunday at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre three days of anime screenings, cosplay, exhibitors, voice actors, and community panels.
The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra performs the score of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi live-to-film at the Jubilee Auditorium Friday and Saturday, with showtimes at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Heritage Park Historical Village opens for its 62nd season Saturday, with blacksmith demonstrations, wagon rides, and the Badlands Dinosaur Dig. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The Calgary Stampeders host their first preseason game of the year Monday at 1 p.m. at McMahon Stadium against the Saskatchewan Roughriders a solid low-key option if you want to get out of the house without the crowds.
Banff Sunshine Village is hosting Slush Cup on Monday, the resort's legendary end-of-ski-season pond skim. If you've never been, this is the one to see.
What to Do in Edmonton This Weekend
Fort Edmonton Park is open for the season the living history museum runs costumed interpreters, streetcar rides, and hands-on historical experiences that are genuinely worth the trip.
The Alberta Railway Museum opens for its 2026 season this weekend, offering a self-guided look at Canada's rail history with real locomotives and rolling stock on display.
Manning Town Centre is hosting SpringFest Saturday, May 16 from noon to 3 p.m. a free family event in the central parking lot.
Driving Anywhere This Weekend? Read This First
The May long weekend is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year in Alberta. If you're heading to the mountains, Banff, Jasper, or anywhere near the lake country, expect heavy traffic Friday afternoon and again Monday evening heading back into the cities.
Leave early or leave late mid-afternoon Friday and Sunday evening are historically the worst windows.
Mountain weather in May can still turn fast. Check 511.alberta.ca before you head into the Rockies. Snow at elevation is not out of the question.
Sources: Government of Canada — Victoria Day statutory holiday; Government of Alberta — stat holiday schedule; Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) — private liquor retail model
