Armistice Day

Armistice Day History

Armistice Day commemorates the end of World War I and the signing of the Armistice between the Allies and Germany. Its purpose is to honour the sacrifices made by soldiers in the conflict and to promote peace. Important aspects of the observance include paying tribute to fallen soldiers, holding ceremonies at war memorials, and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.

In Canada, Armistice Day holds a special significance due to the role of Canadian troops in the war. Canadian soldiers played a pivotal part in many battles, most notably the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917, which is often cited as a key event in the development of Canada's national identity. Over 61,000 Canadian soldiers lost their lives during the conflict, and Armistice Day serves as an opportunity for Canadians to remember their bravery and express gratitude for their sacrifices.

To observe Armistice Day, ceremonies and events are held across Canada, such as the National Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa, which features a military parade, moments of silence, and the laying of wreaths at the National War Memorial. Canadians also wear the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for those who have fallen in battle. Armistice Day, now often referred to as Remembrance Day in Canada, is observed on the 11th day of the 11th month, with two minutes of silence held at 11 a.m. to mark the moment the guns stopped firing in 1918.

Top facts about Armistice Day

• This day remembers the more than 2 million Canadians who have served throughout its history and the more than 118,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice.
• A symbol worn on this day is the bright red poppy. It is a flower referenced in Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae’s poem, In Flanders Fields. The bright red color is a symbol of the blood spilled in wars.
• In 2019, about 65,000 poppies were placed by students in cemeteries across Canada.
• The second largest loss of lives occurred during World War II (1939-1945), with over 45,000 Canadians killed.
• Over 50,000 women served during World War I and II, with approximately 1,700 losing their lives.

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Top things to do for Armistice Day

• Visit the national war memorial in Ottawa. On Armistice Day, the Governor General of Canada presides over a memorial ceremony along with the Prime Minister.
• Attend or watch a march. Many marches are held in honor of those who served and in honor of those whose lives were lost in war.
• Visit one of the national, local, or personal memorials across Canada.
• Watch The Great War, a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation documentary that provides an in-depth look at Canada's role and experience in WW1.