Remembrance Day Events in Ottawa

This year, Remembrance Day is on a Sunday, and while many schools across the Ottawa region will be hosting ceremonies on the 12th, families may be looking for ways to recognize the importance of the day on November 11th. Here are some events across the area where you can participate in Remembrance Day ceremonies with the kids.

National Ceremony

At the National War Memorial in downtown Ottawa, you can participate in the annual Remembrance Day service brought to us by the Legion (this event is also televised). This outdoor event begins at 9 am with screens displaying a virtual in memorium for those who arrive early. At 10:20, marching constituents arrive at the memorial, followed by the veterans parade at 10:35. Just before 11 am will be the singing of O Canada, the playing of the Last Post, and a moment of silence. The ceremony continues until noon. Please note there are road closures affecting traveling around the area for the ceremony. More information can be found on the Legion website.

National Arts Centre: The World Remembers

After the National Ceremony at the War Memorial (at 12:30 pm), the National Arts Centre is offering a free concert called The World Remembers featuring the National Youth Orchestra of Germany. This series of songs commemorating the first World War will include music and text, in recognition of those who lived through the war and those who lost their lives during it. Learn more about the concert on the NAC website and plan to head there immediately after the National Ceremony.

Carlingwood Shopping Centre

While the mall doesn’t open officially until 12:30 pm, Carlingwood Shopping Centre will be hosting a ceremony for Remembrance Day on November 11th at 11 am. It’s recommended to arrive early for seats as they will be limited. It will be held in the central court.

Navan Ceremony

Every year, the town of Navan (near Orleans) hosts a Remembrance Day ceremony. It begins at 10:45 and is outdoors at the Navan Memorial Cenotaph (1295 Colonial Road). All are welcome for this ceremony. If you want to honour the day but not head into the downtown area, this is a great alternative for those in the east end of the city.

Canadian War Museum

At exactly 11 am on Remembrance Day, the sun shines into the Canadian War Museum directly onto the tomb of the unknown soldier and you have the opportunity to see it in person. Limited tickets are available to attend the Memorial Hall and visit this space (there are restrictions on numbers of tickets and their availability. See the website for full details). But the museum will continue to recognize the day with family-friendly activities (the kids can make their own poppies) and there will be Remembrance Day tours offered throughout the day. Admission to the Canadian War Museum on Remembrance Day is free.

No matter which way you decide to honour Remembrance Day, plan ahead as there may be closures for many roads and areas in the city. If you can’t make it to an event on November 11, check to see if your school has something that parents are welcome to attend.