Canada Day, July 1, marks Confederation in 1867 and is a legal holiday across the country. When July 1 falls on a Sunday, the holiday moves to Monday, July 2; when it falls on a Saturday, it stays on the Saturday. In Newfoundland and Labrador, July 1 is also Memorial Day. Restaurants may open on the holiday, and their hours vary by location.
What restaurants publish for July 1 varies more than for most holidays. National chains release red-and-white menu items, app offers or one-day price promotions; pubs and sports bars run patio parties with half-price drinks, wings or poutine; and dining rooms post Canada Day prix fixe or brunch menus. Free-food days are rare and usually tied to a company anniversary.
Holiday rules are the catch. Some restaurants exclude statutory holidays from weekday deals such as happy hours and lunch specials, buffets often switch to weekend or holiday prices, free-food events are first come, first served with no reservations, and patio parties may need tickets. Drink discounts in Alberta cannot go below the province's minimum drink prices. Check the restaurant's own July 1 hours and terms before you go.