Discover what Labour Day 2025 means in Canada, when it's celebrated, and how it honours the contributions of newcomers and workers. Learn how Windmill Microlending supports immigrants in restarting their careers.
August 14, 2025
Labour Day in Canada, observed on Monday, September 1, 2025, is a national statutory holiday that pays tribute to the achievements of workers and the labour movement. While for many it marks the unofficial end of summer, its deeper significance lies in honouring the contributions of working people across the country, including the growing number of immigrants helping build Canada’s future.
From early labour strikes in the 1800s to the formal recognition of Labour Day in 1894, this day has long been rooted in advocacy for fair wages, better working conditions, and workplace safety. Today, it also reflects Canada’s modern, inclusive workforce, one that increasingly depends on the energy, resilience, and skills of newcomers.
In 2025, Labour Day will be celebrated on Monday, September 1. As a federal statutory holiday, it is recognized across all provinces and territories in Canada. Most businesses, schools and government offices will be closed, and many Canadians take the opportunity to rest, reflect or spend time with family.
Labour Day always falls on the first Monday in September, a tradition shared by both Canada and the United States.
Labour Day recognizes the fundamental role that workers play in society. It celebrates their efforts, uplifts their rights and reminds us of the importance of workplace equity, safety and representation.
In 2025, the relevance of Labour Day is more apparent than ever. Canada’s workforce is becoming more diverse and more reliant on immigrants. According to Statistics Canada, immigrants accounted for nearly 79.9% of net labour force growth between 2016 and 2021. By 2041, it’s expected that nearly 1 in 2 working-age Canadians will be immigrants or children of immigrants.
Newcomers are vital to addressing labour shortages, especially in sectors like healthcare, skilled trades, finance, and tech. Labour Day is therefore also a recognition of the contributions immigrants make to the Canadian economy and to our communities.
Labour Day in Canada offers newcomers a chance to connect with their community through parades, picnics and fireworks. Major cities host large-scale events like Toronto’s Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) and Vancouver’s Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), marking the unofficial end of summer.
Many families take part in outdoor celebrations, attend festivals or enjoy Labour Day sales as schools prepare to reopen. It’s also a good time to reflect on your place in the Canadian workforce and explore programs that support your career goals.
As you build your future in Canada, you may face financial or credentialing barriers that prevent you from working in your field. That’s where Windmill Microlending comes in.
We’re a national non-profit organization that offers low-interest loans of up to $15,000 to help internationally trained professionals, including doctors, nurses, engineers, accountants, and skilled tradespeople, cover the cost of licensing exams, credential assessments, tuition, and professional development. We offer career mentorship, financial planning tools and client success coaching to ensure that your talents are put to use in Canada.
Labour Day is a reminder that your hard work, your ambition and your experience matter. Let us help you reach your full potential. Visit windmillmicrolending.org to learn more about our loans!
