Family Day offers a welcome midwinter break

Family Day on Monday, Feb. 16, is a civic holiday intended to give people time with loved ones and a brief midwinter respite.

Family Day is coming on Monday, Feb. 16, and is observed as a civic holiday that is not tied to any particular religion. There are few fixed traditions for the extra day off, so how it is observed varies across households and communities. The holiday is presented as an opportunity to spend time with loved ones and as a chance to recover from the long stretch between New Year’s and spring. It is also framed as a small seasonal turning point, with longer days and springtime plants on the horizon. What to know: - Family Day is observed on Monday, Feb. 16, as an extra civic holiday. - The holiday is not linked to a religion and is similar in civic status to Remembrance Day or Canada Day. - The stated purposes include strengthening family ties and providing a midwinter break. - Community offerings often include events at recreation centres, libraries, pools and museums, while others mark the day with walks, meals, gatherings, or quiet rest at home. - The day is commonly seen as a sign that winter is easing and spring is approaching. Summary: The holiday provides an extra day off for families and communities and is presented as both a time to connect with others and a respite from the late-winter stretch. It also serves as a seasonal marker as winter gives way to spring.