The Victoria Day weekend has long been the unofficial kick-off to the outdoor season in Canada.
But like most everything else, the COVID-19 pandemic has upended this weekend as well.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland is urging Canadians not to let their guard down to ensure the virus doesn't see a resurgence in the coming weeks.
Physical distancing protocols are easing, but large back yard gatherings in most of the country are still a no-no.
Even if you're gathering with immediate family for a barbecue, closures of meat processing plants have resulted in meat shortages in some places, and higher prices where you can find it.
And many communities have outright banned the sale of fireworks to discourage large groups coming together to watch them.
According to a recent Angus Reid survey, being able to hug friends and family tops the list of things people are missing most these days, and experts say many Canadians will feel the loss this weekend.