3 Heartfelt Ways to Observe Remembrance Day in Ottawa
Remembrance Day is a time to pause and honor the bravery and sacrifice of our military heroes.
As someone with a few family members serving in the military, this day holds a special significance to me because it reminds me of the courage they demonstrate in protecting our country’s freedom.
And if you want to pay your respects during this time in the city, I know just what to do in order to honor our selfless veterans.
From solemn moments at the National War Memorial to educational experiences to indulge in at your own time at the Canadian War Museum, here’s how you can participate in Remembrance Day and honor the courage and resilience of those who have served.
1. Attend the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial
Media credit: @thedogsbollocks2
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/emjcscRT8PGksgA18
Address: Wellington St
Contact details: +1 866-522-2122
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Every November 11th, the National Remembrance Day Ceremony is held at the National War Memorial to solemnly honor those who have served and sacrificed for the country.
The ceremony usually includes the arrival of dignitaries, the national anthem, moments of silence, a wreath-laying ritual, and a fly-past.
People also have the choice to purchase a wreath to extend help to veterans and their families.
2. Reflect at the Peace Tower at the Parliament Hill
Media credit: @charlieangus.ndp.npd
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/o9A2iNA3V1ugL6Mq6
Address: Wellington St.
Contact details: +1 613-992-4793
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – closed
If you can’t make it to any events, you can always visit the Peace Tower at Parliament Hill to pay your respects.
Here, artificial poppies are released onto the Peace Tower from the last week of October to November 11 itself.
It’s a gesture to honor and remember those who have served and sacrificed for their country.
3. Visit the Canadian War Museum
Website: https://www.warmuseum.ca
Address: 1 Vimy Pl
Contact details: +1 800-555-5621
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, and Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
You can also celebrate Remembrance Day in Ottawa by visiting the Canadian War Museum.
Here, you can explore exhibits that honor Canada’s military history, as well as pay tribute to those who have served in conflicts around the world.
It boasts a rich collection of stories, images, testimonies, and several more artifacts from the country’s military history.
After exploring different galleries at the Canadian War Museum, make sure to drop by Memorial Hall and reflect on what you’ve learned through your visit.
Also take a moment to pay respects at Memorial Hall’s sole artifact, an unmarked grave of an unknown Canadian soldier.