Moving Day
July 1, Tuesday
Quebec
Historical Background
The origins of Moving Day date back to the 18th century. In 1750, a law was passed in New France (now Quebec) that prohibited landlords from evicting tenants during the harsh winter months. As a result, leases were commonly set to begin on May 1st. Over time, the lease-end date was shifted to July 1st to accommodate better weather and school schedules.
Why July 1st?
July 1st became the standard lease turnover date in Quebec due to a 1973 law that moved the traditional lease renewal date from May 1st to July 1st. This change was made to avoid disrupting the school year for families with children and to take advantage of the warmer summer weather for moving.
What Happens on Moving Day?
On Moving Day, thousands of Quebec residents pack up their belongings and move to new apartments or homes. The streets of cities like Montreal are often filled with moving trucks, discarded furniture, and people carrying boxes.
Common sights on Moving Day include:
- People transporting mattresses, couches, and appliances
- Sidewalks lined with unwanted furniture and household items
- Increased demand for rental trucks and moving services
- Temporary traffic congestion in residential neighborhoods
Impact on Society
Moving Day has a significant impact on Quebec society:
- It creates a high demand for moving companies, often requiring bookings months in advance.
- Charitable organizations often collect unwanted furniture and household goods left on the curb.
- It can be a stressful time for tenants, especially those with limited financial resources or mobility issues.
Criticism and Challenges
While Moving Day is a long-standing tradition, it is not without criticism:
- The overlap with Canada Day means many Quebecers are unable to fully participate in national celebrations.
- The mass movement of people can lead to logistical challenges, such as overbooked moving services and housing shortages.
- Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or low-income families, may struggle with the pressures of relocating on a fixed date.