Remembrance Day in Canada is to honor the members of the armed forces who served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions. The day commemorates the end of World War I, which formally concluded with the signing of the Armistice on November 11, 1918, at 11:00 AM.

Table of Contents

1. When is Remembrance Day?
2. The History of Remembrance Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. Poem: In Flanders Fields

When is Remembrance Day?

Remembrance Day in Canada is observed annually on November 11. The date is significant because World War I was formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when the Armistice with Germany went into effect.

The following is the list of Remembrance Day in Canada.

The History of Remembrance Day?

Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Canadian military personnel in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions. Its origins trace back to the end of World War I and have evolved into a national tradition of reflection and gratitude.

World War I ended on November 11, 1918 at 11:00 AM, when an armistice agreement was signed between the Allies and Germany. This marked the end of four years of devastating conflict and became a symbol of peace and reflection.

In 1919, the first Armistice Day was observed to commemorate the end of the war and to honor the fallen soldiers. King George V declared it a day of remembrance, asking people across the British Empire to observe a two-minute silence at 11:00 AM.

Canada began formally observing Armistice Day in 1921. It was initially combined with Thanksgiving and held on the Monday closest to November 11. This dual observance led to criticism, as many felt it diluted the solemnity of the occasion.

In 1931, the Canadian Parliament passed legislation to separate Thanksgiving from Armistice Day. November 11 was designated Remembrance Day, focusing exclusively on honoring military service and sacrifices.

Following World War II (1939–1945) and subsequent conflicts, Remembrance Day became a time to honor all Canadian military personnel who served and sacrificed in various wars and peacekeeping missions.

The red poppy, inspired by John McCrae's poem "In Flanders Fields", became the symbol of remembrance, and Canadians wear poppies on their clothing as a tribute to fallen soldiers and a reminder of the cost of freedom.

What Do People Do on This Day?

On Remembrance Day, people participate in a variety of activities to honor and remember the sacrifices of military personnel who served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions.

At 11:00 AM, Canadians observe a two-minute silence, symbolizing the exact moment the armistice ended World War I in 1918. This moment is dedicated to reflecting on the sacrifices made by military members and the cost of war.

Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at cenotaphs and war memorials across the country, such as the National War Memorial in Ottawa.

The main national ceremony in Ottawa includes a military parade, the laying of wreaths by dignitaries, veterans, and representatives of various organizations, and a flyover by military aircraft.

Canadians wear red poppies on their clothing, typically over their hearts, to honor those who served. Proceeds from poppy sales support veterans and their families through the Royal Canadian Legion.

Schools hold Remembrance Day assemblies where students learn about Canada's military history, and participate in moments of silence, poetry readings, and singing of patriotic songs.

Cities and towns may hold parades featuring veterans, military personnel, and community groups. Marching bands, military vehicles, and honor guards are common elements.

Many people make donations to organizations that assist veterans and their families, and contributions to the poppy campaign help fund services for veterans.

Poem: In Flanders Fields

In Flanders Fields was written in 1915 during World War I by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae (1872–1918), a Canadian physician, soldier and poet.

In Flanders Fields
by John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.