Timeline for Canada's 40th General Election - 2008

Important Election Dates

When an election is called and campaign information takes over the news - and even our lawns - it can feel like the weeks just blend into each other. But during a federal election there are some important dates you should make note of if you want to take part in the election process.

• Thursday September 18th & Friday September 19th - Voter Information Cards Mailed Out
  As with all mail delivery arrival times will vary, but you should probably receive your card within the following week.


• Monday September 22nd - Nominations Close
  This is the last day for potential candidates to submit their papers, and it is also the last day for candidates who have already submitted their papers to withdraw.


• Thursday September 25th
  The final lists of candidates will be released by Elections Canada.


• Wednesday October 1st - French-Language Leadership Debate
  The debate will be held in Ottawa from 8pm to 10pm and moderated by Stephan Bureau.


• Thursday October 2nd - English-Language Leadership Debate
  The debate will be moderated by TVO's Steve Paikin, who has discussed the behind-the-scenes process a little bit on the blog for his show The Agenda. This debate is also being held in Ottawa but will air here live from 9pm to 11pm.


• Friday October 3rd - Advance Polling
  Advance polls will be open from noon to 8pm. Check your Voter Information Card for your location.


• Saturday October 4th - Advance Polling
  Advance polls will be open from noon to 8pm. Check your Voter Information Card for your location.


• Sunday October 5th - Advance Polls CLOSED


• Monday October 6th - Advance Polling
  Advance polls will be open from noon to 8pm. Check your Voter Information Card for your location.


• Tuesday October 7th - Deadline for Voter Information Card Problems
  Elections Canada asks that if you do not receive your Voter Information Card in the mail or if the card you receive is not yours or has errors on it, to get in touch with your local Elections Canada office before 6pm. For more details see this Elections Canada webpage.


• Monday October 13th - Thanksgiving
  Canadian elections are held on a Monday, unless the Monday in question is a holiday. Which this one is.


• Tuesday October 14th - Election Day
  Elections Canada staggers polling station hours across Canada so that results will come in around the same time everywhere. As Toronto is in the Eastern Time Zone, polls will be open at 9:30am and close at 9:30pm.

Source: Elections Canada