The Yukon to observe National Day of Mourning to mark passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Please note this release has been updated to reflect that Courts will remain open. 

Please note the start time of  the live screening of Canada’s national commemorative ceremony taking place in the Jim Smith Building foyer on Monday, September 19, has been changed to 9 am.

The Government of Canada has announced that September 19, 2022, will be a National Day of Mourning to coincide with the state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II which is taking place that day at Westminster Abbey. The Yukon will be following the lead of the federal government and joining other provinces and territories in observing the National Day of Mourning as a one-time holiday for territorial public sector employees.

K–12 public schools and other public-facing services in the territory will be closed on September 19. Private sector employers and organizations and other levels of government are encouraged to observe the National Day of Mourning in ways that are suitable for their employees and operations.

September 19, 2022, will be the last day of the official period of mourning.

On Monday, September 19, Yukoners are invited to a live screening of Canada’s national commemorative ceremony in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The live screening will begin at 9 am (YST) at the Jim Smith Building foyer in Whitehorse. The Yukon’s book of condolences will be available at the screening event for those who wish to sign it. Refreshments and light catering will be provided. 

Ensuring Yukoners have the opportunity to mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is an important part of cherishing and honouring her legacy. We encourage all employers to recognize and reflect on the National Day of Mourning in a way that is appropriate for their employees. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II led an exceptional life dedicated to public service and helping Canadians. On behalf of all Yukoners, I extend our sympathies once again to all members of the Royal Family.

Premier Sandy Silver

Quick facts 
  • The National Day of Mourning in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be observed in the Yukon as a one-time holiday for territorial public sector employees. Private sector employers and organizations and other levels of government are encouraged to observe the National Day of Mourning in ways that are suitable for their employees.

  • Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II acceded to the throne on February 6, 1952. She reigned for over 70 years. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022.

  • Yukoners wishing to pass along their sympathy to the Royal Family are encouraged to sign the online condolence book. Alternatively, people wishing to sign the condolence book in person can do so at the Office of the Commissioner of Yukon at the Taylor House at 412 Main Street, Whitehorse, during the office hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Media contact 

Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
[email protected]


Alexis Miller
Communications, Executive Council Office
867-456-6507 
[email protected]  

News release #: 
22-301