Reading Week 2026: Your Ultimate Escape Plan

The winter semester is in full swing. Assignments are piling up, midterms are looming on the horizon, and the days remain short and chilly. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel: Reading Week. For university and college students across Canada, this mid-semester break is a holy grail, an essential pause button in the relentless academic calendar. 

It is the perfect time to reset. While the name suggests a week devoted solely to catching up on textbooks and lecture notes, the reality of a successful Reading Week is all about balance. Managing your academic responsibilities is important, but prioritizing your mental health, relaxation, and a bit of fun is just as crucial. Some will use this time to finally sleep in; others will take the opportunity to explore a new city or reconnect with friends outside the library.  

This guide serves as your ultimate roadmap for making the most of Reading Week 2026. Whether you are thinking about travelling to a tropical paradise or uncovering hidden gems in Toronto, UP Express is here to get you from Union Station in downtown Toronto to Toronto Pearson in under 30 minutes so you can skip the traffic and focus on your destination! Don’t forget that post-secondary students from select schools can get up to 40%off UP Express fares. Get ready to find tips, destination ideas, and travel tools to ensure your time off is as rewarding as possible.

What is Reading Week in University? 

If you are new to university, you may be wondering exactly what “Reading Week” refers to. Officially, Reading Week (also known as Spring Break) is a mid-semester break built into the university and college calendars. Initially, it was established to provide students with time to focus intensively on preparing for upcoming final exams and finishing major term papers without the usual distractions of class schedules. In its earliest form, Reading Week was meant, quite literally, for reading. 

Over the years, the purpose of Reading Week has evolved. Today, post-secondary institutions and student organizations recognize the week as an essential period for student well-being. The break allows students to step back from campus pressures, refresh their perspective, and help prevent burnout. Academics still play a role; it’s a great opportunity to tackle any outstanding coursework. However, what constitutes a “productive” Reading Week has broadened. Some students devote the week to making significant academic progress, while others benefit most by unplugging, reconnecting with their surroundings, or simply looking after their mental health. 

When is Reading Week in 2026? 

Planning ahead is key to making the most of Reading Week 2026. In Ontario and throughout much of Canada, Reading Week occurs in the winter term, typically falling in late February or early March. In 2026, it will likely align with the Family Day holiday in Ontario, which takes place on Monday, February 16, 2026. That means many universities will have their break from February 16th to February 20th, 2026. 

However, not all institutions follow the same calendar. Some may hold Reading Week in early March or split the break across different faculties, as is often the case for medical or law programs. That’s why it’s essential to log in to your student portal and verify the exact dates on your academic calendar before committing to any travel arrangements. Double-checking ensures you don’t book a Reading Week vacation that might clash with midterms or essential academic commitments. 

Best Student Vacation Destinations 

If recharging means putting some physical distance between you and your campus, there is no shortage of fantastic travel destinations during Reading Week. For Canadian students, this has become a tradition, a chance to escape winter, build new memories, and relax before tackling the latter half of the semester. 

Cancun, Mexico, is a favourite for student vacation destinations. The appeal is clear: reliable sunshine, pristine white-sand beaches, and a wealth of all-inclusive resorts that simplify budgeting. Beyond relaxing by the pool or ocean, Cancun offers cultural experiences like visiting Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá or swimming in the vivid freshwater cenotes. Whether students want to socialize, enjoy the lively party atmosphere, or find a quiet corner on the beach, there is something for everyone. 

Miami, Florida, remains another top-tier choice for student vacations, especially for those seeking warmth without a long flight. The city’s South Beach is known for its unique Art Deco style, vibrant food scene, and nonstop nightlife. For students who appreciate arts and culture, a stroll through the Wynwood Walls showcases incredible street art, while Miami’s rich neighbourhoods, like Little Havana, deliver diverse culinary delights and an energizing vibe. 

On the other hand, not everyone is looking to escape the snow; adventure seekers might gravitate towards Whistler, British Columbia. Whistler Blackcomb is internationally recognized for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. The pedestrian-friendly village, filled with inviting restaurants, patios, and shops, creates a welcoming atmosphere after a day on the slopes. The après-ski culture is a highlight, offering cozy spaces for students to unwind and connect. 

When departing from Toronto, consider booking with Porter Airlines. Porter is the official airline of UP Express and offers a reliable, comfortable travel experience that students appreciate. With routes to Miami, Orlando, Vancouver (for Whistler access), and various sun-soaked destinations, Porter makes getting away seamless. Their commitment to customer service, from complimentary beverages served in glassware to no middle seats on many flights, ensures a relaxing start to any trip. Additionally, their growing network at Toronto Pearson (YYZ) is conveniently accessible via the UP Express from Union Station, making your journey to the airport as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Cheap Reading Week Vacations 

Reading Week doesn’t have to mean jetting off to another country or even leaving your province. For students aiming to save money or who simply prefer to stay close to home, Toronto and its surrounding areas offer a vibrant array of experiences. Contrary to what some might think, staying in town can lead to some of the most memorable and affordable adventures. 

A Toronto staycation is a chance to see the city through new eyes. Many students rarely explore beyond their immediate campus neighbourhoods, but the city offers distinct areas that offer unique experiences. Kensington Market, with its quirky shops and affordable food options from every corner of the globe, is always lively. The Distillery District, known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and inviting cafés, offers plenty of charm. Even the Toronto Waterfront, despite the winter chill, features striking lake views and numerous opportunities for a scenic stroll. 

Exploring Toronto can be even more affordable with your PRESTO card. PRESTO Perks offers significant discounts at many of the city’s top attractions. Students can enjoy reduced admission rates to institutions such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario, making for a quiet, inspiring afternoon. Deals extend to entertainment and sports events as well, so checking the PRESTO Perks website before heading out can help stretch your budget further. 

If you’re feeling the urge to venture beyond the city, there are several day trips easily accessible via GO Transit. Niagara Falls is one of the world’s natural wonders, and in winter, the spectacle of the ice and snowy landscape makes it even more breathtaking. It’s a magical experience, and while you’re there, you can explore the bustling attractions of Clifton Hill or go for a quiet walk along the parkway.  

For students who do plan to head to the airport, especially with friends, the UP Express Group Pass is an excellent way to save. It lets groups of 3-5 travel between Union Station and Pearson Airport at a discounted rate, often undercutting the cost of a rideshare and ensuring a comfortable, traffic-free ride. The journey is not only sleek and convenient, but it also includes amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets so you can keep your devices charged and ready for travel, all while keeping your trip affordable. 

Spring Break Travel Destinations 

It’s also worth understanding how Canadian Reading Week can coincide with or overlap with the Spring Break period in the United States and internationally. While Reading Week is generally in February, Spring Break tends to stretch throughout March, especially in popular international destinations. 

If your break lines up with the early part of Spring Break, you may find yourself arriving just as the party atmosphere heats up. For students looking for high-energy fun, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, is a renowned destination for its dynamic nightlife. Throughout late February and March, Cabo becomes a lively social centre, attracting students from across North America. The destination offers a blend of dramatic desert scenery, stunning beaches, and legendary clubs, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. 

In Florida, cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale are legendary for their Spring Break celebrations. With music festivals, beach parties, and numerous events specifically for university students, these cities offer a vibrant, sometimes wild atmosphere. While this can be appealing to those seeking electrifying experiences, it’s also something to keep in mind if your goal is rest and quiet; during these weeks, these destinations become especially lively. 

On the other hand, if peace and reflection are your priorities, it’s wise to avoid the hotspots during their busiest times. Selecting a destination that aligns with your energy for the week is a key step to making your Spring Break travel destination as positive as possible. 

Final Thoughts on Reading Week 2026 

No matter where you choose to spend it—relaxing on a sun-drenched beach with Porter Airlines, carving through fresh powder in Whistler, or curating your own urban adventure in Toronto—the most important ingredient in a successful 2026 Reading Week is intention. This week provides a rare opportunity within your academic schedule to pause, reflect, and invest in both your well-being and your goals. 

To get the most value from your break, plan ahead, book early, and use smart travel solutions like riding on UP Express and PRESTO Perks. These tools help make your journey not only more convenient and efficient but also more affordable. Start preparing for your adventure now, and let 2026 be the year you master the art of the mid-semester escape. Safe travels!