The Civic Holiday long weekend is one of the best opportunities to get outside, explore your community and enjoy summer in Canada without spending a lot of money.

In 2026, Civic Holiday falls on Monday, August 3. The holiday has different names across the country, including British Columbia Day, Saskatchewan Day, New Brunswick Day, Heritage Day in Alberta, Terry Fox Day in Manitoba and Simcoe Day in Toronto. It is also not a statutory holiday in every province, so business hours and public services may vary depending on where you live.

Whether this is your first Civic Holiday in Canada or you are simply looking for an affordable way to enjoy the long weekend, here are 10 free activities to try.

1. Visit a Parks Canada Destination

This summer is an especially good time to explore Canada’s national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas.

From June 19 to September 7, 2026, Parks Canada is offering free admission to its administered destinations across the country. Camping, parking, tours and some special activities may still have separate fees, so review the destination’s visitor information before leaving home.

Depending on where you live, you could spend the day hiking, visiting a historic fort, exploring a national historic site or relaxing near the water.

Canoo members can also use the Canoo app to access free admission to Parks Canada locations during their eligible membership period.

2. Explore a Local Park or Nature Trail

You do not need to leave your city to experience Canada’s natural beauty.

Pack some water and snacks and explore a nearby:

Waterfront trail
Conservation area
Urban forest
Public garden
Ravine
Hiking or cycling route

Many municipalities maintain free trails that are accessible by public transit. Search your city’s website for local trail maps, recommended walking routes and information about washrooms, parking and accessibility.

In Toronto, Rouge National Urban Park is free and open throughout the year, offering trails, beaches, forests, wetlands and farmland within the city.

3. Have a Picnic in a New Neighbourhood

A picnic is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the long weekend without paying for an event or restaurant.

Prepare food at home, bring a blanket and visit a park you have never explored before. You can also invite friends, relatives or other newcomers and ask everyone to bring a dish from their home country.

It is a simple way to enjoy Canadian summer while sharing different cultures and traditions.

Before heading out, check whether your park has picnic tables, public washrooms, splash pads, playgrounds or barbecue restrictions.

4. Visit a Free Museum or Gallery

Many cities have museums, galleries and cultural spaces that offer free general admission or free entry on certain days.

For example, Toronto operates 10 history museums with free general admission. These sites introduce visitors to the people, communities and events that shaped the city.

Free cultural spaces may include:

Local history museums
University galleries
Community art galleries
Public libraries with exhibitions
Cultural centres
Historic buildings

Holiday hours can be different from regular hours, so confirm that the location is open before visiting.

5. Attend a Free Community Festival

The August long weekend often includes free festivals, performances, community celebrations and outdoor activities.

Check your municipality’s event calendar for:

Live music
Cultural festivals
Outdoor movies
Art markets
Family activities
Dance performances
Community celebrations

These events are also a great way for newcomers to learn about the cultures and communities that make up Canada.

Admission may be free even when food, rides or special activities cost extra. Set a budget before attending if you want to keep the day completely free.

6. Spend the Day at a Public Beach

Canada has thousands of lakes, rivers and coastal areas, and many communities provide free access to public beaches.

Bring sunscreen, water, a hat and something to sit on. You can spend the day swimming, reading, walking along the shore or playing games with friends and family.

Before swimming, check:

Current water-quality notices
Whether lifeguards are present
Local weather conditions
Beach rules
Parking or transit options

Never enter the water during a closure or when conditions appear unsafe.

7. Discover Public Art and Street Murals

Turn your neighbourhood into an outdoor art gallery by creating your own public-art walking tour.

Search for murals, sculptures, monuments and public installations near you. Many cities publish online maps showing the locations and stories behind their public artworks.

You can make the experience more interactive by taking photos, choosing your favourite piece or researching the artist afterward.

It is a free way to explore a new part of your city while learning more about local identity and history.

8. Visit a Public Garden or Conservatory

Public gardens are a peaceful option for anyone who wants a slower long-weekend activity.

Depending on your community, you may find free:

Botanical displays
Rose gardens
Community gardens
Greenhouses
Pollinator gardens
Conservatories

Toronto’s Allan Gardens and Centennial Park conservatories feature tropical plants, seasonal displays and indoor garden spaces. City conservatories have traditionally offered free admission, although visitors should confirm current holiday hours before travelling.

9. Explore a Farmers’ Market

You do not have to purchase anything to enjoy a farmers’ market.

Walk through the market, discover local products, listen to live entertainment and learn about foods grown or produced in your region.

Markets can help newcomers become more familiar with seasonal Canadian produce and connect with local farmers, bakers, artists and small businesses.

Some markets may be closed or operate on reduced hours during the holiday weekend, so review the schedule first.

10. Create a Free Canadian Summer Challenge

Turn the Civic Holiday weekend into a personal Canadian summer challenge.

Try completing five free activities, such as:

Watch the sunset beside a lake
Find a Muskoka chair
Visit a new neighbourhood
Walk part of a major local trail
See a Canadian landmark
Photograph local wildlife
Play a game in the park
Learn one fact about your city’s history
Attend a free cultural event
Introduce yourself to someone new

Share the challenge with friends and compare how many activities you complete before the weekend ends.

Plan Before You Go

Civic Holiday rules and hours are not the same everywhere in Canada. Some businesses, government offices, libraries and public facilities may close, while others may remain open with reduced hours.

Before leaving home:

Confirm the location’s holiday hours.
Check whether reservations are required.
Review weather, air-quality and water-quality advisories.
Plan your transit or parking.
Bring water, sunscreen and weather-appropriate clothing.
Check the Canoo app for additional free experiences available near you.

Make the Most of Your Long Weekend with Canoo

Exploring Canada does not always require an expensive ticket or a long trip.

A walk through a new neighbourhood, an afternoon in a public park or a visit to a free museum can help you become more familiar with your community and create meaningful memories in your new home.

Open the Canoo app before the Civic Holiday weekend to discover attractions, cultural experiences and destinations available to eligible Canoo members across Canada.