Family Day will take place on the second weekend of February.
The announcement came down May 28 by the provincial government after weeks of input by the public about when to hold B.C.'s newest holiday.
The third weekend in February is already a busy time for vacationers, as it is Presidents Day in the U.S. as well as a provincial holiday in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario.
Holding Family Day on the second weekend now allows vacationers to potentially enjoy two long weekends' worth of vacationers.
"Creating a Family Day in B.C. was an important priority for me," said Premier Christy Clark in a statement. "Having our own unique day in B.C. creates distinctive opportunities for families and local businesses. British Columbians will be able to enjoy all kinds of local attractions with fewer lineups and less out-of-town traffic."
Margaret MacDiarmid, Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government, said in a statement that the public participation was key to the government's decision.
"We heard a lot of thoughtful points of view from British Columbians about which day they'd prefer. The response we had from the public was outstanding - it's great to see people know we want to hear from them, and that we're listening," said MacDiarmid.
The first Family Day will be held on Feb. 11, 2013.
New motorcycle laws now in effect
As motorcyclists gear up for riding season, the provincial government is reminding riders that new motorcycle safety regulations took effect on June 1.
All motorcyclists and passengers in B.C. must wear a motorcycle helmet that displays the proper industry safety certification label. Helmets must comply with standards outlined by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), Snell Memorial Foundation 2005 or 2010, or United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (ECE). Riders found violating the new helmet laws will receive a $138 fine. New seating laws have also been put into place to protect both passengers and riders.
See more at http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/osmv/road-safety/motorcycles.htm.
