National Patriots' Day (Journe nationale des patriotes) is a statutory holiday in Quebec observed annually on the Monday preceding May 25. The day honors the memory of the Patriotes who fought for democratic principles and political reform during the Lower Canada Rebellion of 18371838.
The holiday was officially established by the Government of Quebec in 2002 and was first celebrated in 2003. It takes place on the same date as Victoria Day, which is celebrated in most other Canadian provinces and territories. The institution of this day replaced the celebration of Victoria Day within Quebec, representing a formal decision to commemorate a key event in the province's republican history rather than a holiday honoring a British monarch. The Patriotes' rebellion was a significant conflict against British colonial rule, aimed at establishing a responsible government accountable to the local population.
Consequently, this observance serves as a symbol of Quebec's distinct historical and political identity within the Canadian federation. As a public holiday, it results in a long weekend in May, which is widely considered the unofficial start of the summer season. While many residents enjoy the day off, various historical and cultural events are also organized across the province to commemorate the Patriotes' struggle for self-determination.
