Boxing Day drivers cause ‘significant congestion’ on part of Hwy 401: OPP

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning of “significant congestion” on one stretch of Highway 401 due to drivers heading out on Boxing Day.

In a post on X at 8:03 a.m. Thursday, the OPP said the Highway 401 westbound exit to Trafalgar Road in Mississauga is experiencing a severe backlog due to traffic. Toronto Premium Outlets, a large outdoor mall, is located just off the exit.

A photo accompanying the post shows a row of illuminated taillights from several vehicles, with stopped cars taking up at least one lane beyond the exit. The OPP did not say when the photo, which was captured on a traffic camera, was taken Thursday.

“Shoppers are advised to use the Winston Churchill Blvd exit as an alternative to ensure a safe and smooth shopping journey,” the OPP said in the post.

“As a reminder, the HTA (Highway Traffic Act) does not allow pedestrians to walk on controlled highways, including exits.”

The OPP added members of its Mississauga branch will “proactively monitor” the area throughout the day.

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Toronto Premium Outlets is just one of the many attractions open throughout the Toronto area on Boxing Day.

In Canada and other countries such as Australia and Great Britain, the day after Christmas is a secular national holiday known as Boxing Day.

No one knows for sure when Boxing Day started, but some believe it was centuries ago when servants were given the day off to rest after Christmas. Others trace it back even earlier to the Roman practice of collecting money in coffers.

In modern times, Boxing Day has evolved into a day of relaxation and pampering – and shopping. It is filled with sporting events, and is often a day when people open their homes to family and friends to celebrate the holiday.

— with files from The Associated Press

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