Collective vacation in construction: a strategic pause in Quebec’s industry

Every summer, thousands of construction sites in Quebec pause simultaneously. This is not due to coincidence or a drop in demand—it’s a regulated tradition that reshapes the province’s work rhythm. The construction holiday is a key moment for both employers and the foreign workers who support this sector.

A tradition with legal backing

The construction holiday, known in French as les vacances de la construction, is a legally mandated break in Quebec that originated in the 1970s. In this province, all unionized workers in the construction industry must take two consecutive weeks off at the end of July. For 2025, the official dates are from Sunday, July 20 to Saturday, August 2.

During these two weeks, thousands of worksites shut down and cities partially empty of hard-hat workers. Although this is a uniquely Quebec tradition, other provinces like Ontario or Alberta also experience a seasonal slowdown in construction activity—though not due to legal requirements.

A necessary break for foreign workers

For those who come from abroad to work temporarily in Quebec—especially in construction—this vacation marks a milestone in the year. It not only provides well-earned rest after weeks of intense physical labor, but also offers a chance to:

• Travel within the country, explore new regions or visit relatives in other provinces.
• Organize personal finances, send money, handle paperwork, or plan the rest of the season.
• Take care of their physical and mental health and recharge for the remainder of the year.

For employers: a pause that also requires planning

The holiday period is also a scheduled break in project planning. Companies must anticipate deadlines, reorganize deliveries, and ensure everything is in order before the shutdown. It’s also an ideal time to:

• Conduct maintenance on machinery or job sites.
• Reorganize teams, assess performance, and plan new hires if needed.
• Handle administrative or HR issues often delayed during peak work periods.

A time to recharge and reflect

Although temporary, the construction holiday has a significant impact on productivity, well-being, and workplace safety. It’s no coincidence that workplace accident rates tend to drop afterward: workers return more focused, motivated, and healthier.