TORONTO — Ontario Premier Doug Ford is encouraging residents to reconnect with loved ones and support local businesses as the province marks Family Day, highlighting both the social and economic importance of the mid-winter holiday.
In a statement released Monday by the Premier’s Office, Ford framed the February holiday as an opportunity for Ontarians to strengthen personal ties while contributing to their local economies during a typically slower retail period.
“Today, as family and friends across Ontario take time to enjoy this Family Day holiday, I encourage everyone across the province to take the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and focus on what matters most,” Ford said.
Family Day, observed in Ontario on the third Monday of February, is one of several statutory holidays created in part to break up the long winter stretch between New Year’s Day and Easter. The holiday has also become an important economic driver for sectors including tourism, recreation, hospitality and retail, as families seek out seasonal activities and local experiences.
Ford pointed to those activities as both a social and economic opportunity.
“Whether it’s going skating at an outdoor rink, trying a new winter activity or relaxing at home with loved ones, Family Day is a time to celebrate moments with the people we care about most. Family Day is also an opportunity to support local businesses that are the engine of Ontario’s economy.”
Small businesses across Ontario often rely on holiday weekends to boost revenues during the winter months, when consumer spending can be more subdued. Restaurants, ski hills, arenas, cultural attractions and main street retailers frequently promote special events and offers tied to the long weekend, aiming to attract families looking for affordable outings.
The province has consistently emphasized the role of small and medium-sized enterprises in Ontario’s economic growth. According to provincial data, small businesses account for the majority of private-sector employment, making consumer support during peak shopping periods critical to their stability.
Ford also used the holiday message to acknowledge workers who remain on the job during statutory holidays, including those in essential services and community support roles.
“I want to thank all those who are working to support others, including frontline workers and community volunteers whose efforts help make our province a stronger and more resilient place for everyone,” he said.
Those workers include healthcare staff, transit operators, emergency responders and hospitality employees, many of whom enable holiday activities while sacrificing time with their own families.
The premier’s message also emphasized social responsibility and community connection, particularly for vulnerable Ontarians who may face isolation.
“I encourage everyone to check in on those who are alone or less fortunate and give a hand where you can,” Ford said.
Community organizations and charities often see increased volunteer engagement during holidays like Family Day, as residents participate in outreach programs, food drives and neighbourhood events.
Since its introduction in Ontario in 2008, Family Day has evolved into both a cultural and economic fixture. Municipalities typically organize free public programming, including skating, festivals and family-oriented entertainment, drawing residents into local spaces and encouraging spending in surrounding business districts.
Economic development groups have long noted that statutory holidays can provide a meaningful lift to consumer-facing sectors, particularly when residents choose to shop locally rather than travel outside their communities.
Ford concluded his statement on a personal note, reinforcing the holiday’s family-centred focus.
“From my family to yours, Happy Family Day!”
As Ontarians marked the day across the province, many participated in winter traditions despite cold temperatures, while businesses and community organizations worked to accommodate the seasonal surge in activity.
The provincial government has increasingly linked such holidays with broader messaging about economic resilience and community strength, underscoring how individual choices — including where residents spend their time and money — contribute to Ontario’s overall economic health.