How to observe Remembrance Day in Ontario
National War Memorial | Ottawa Tourism
November 5 to 11 is Veterans’ Week, a time to recognize and reflect on the service of Canadian veterans. On November 8, National Indigenous Veterans Day recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ contributions to military service. On November 11, Canada observes Remembrance Day to commemorate those who served in times of war, conflict and peace around the world and to honour the lives lost.
November 11 is significant because World War I (WWI) ended with a signed armistice at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In 1931, Armistice Day became Remembrance Day in Canada and other Commonwealth countries.
Here’s how to mark this important occasion in Ontario.
Attend a Remembrance Day event
Across Canada, people gather at cenotaphs and memorials for Remembrance Day ceremonies. Notable events are held in Ottawa and Toronto, and communities throughout the province hold local ceremonies.
National War Memorial Ceremony
Join the Royal Canadian Legion at the National War Memorial in Ottawa at 10:30 a.m. for a Remembrance Day ceremony that includes a 21-gun salute, dignitary attendance, musical performance, wreath-laying and two minutes of silence.
When: November 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.
Where: 30 Wellington Street, Ottawa
Queen’s Park Ceremony
The Remembrance Day service starts at 10:45 a.m. in front of the Ontario Legislative Building in downtown Toronto with remarks, wreath-laying and moments of reflection. Learn about more Remembrance Day ceremonies in Toronto.
When: November 11, 2026, at 10:45 a.m.
Wear a red poppy pin
Many people wear a small red poppy on their left lapel, over the heart, as a sign of respect and remembrance. The poppy’s role as a symbol of remembrance traces back to “In Flanders Fields,” written in 1915 by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian physician serving in WWI. The poem describes the red poppies growing among soldiers’ graves in Flanders. The flower has since become a lasting tribute to those who died in service.
Starting in late October, poppies are available by donation at Royal Canadian Legion branches and often at local shops and businesses. Donations support veterans and their families. You can also order poppy pins online.
Visit a war museum or military exhibit
Remembrance isn’t limited to November. Visiting a military museum any time of the year is a meaningful way to learn about Canada’s role in war and peacekeeping. These museums provide insight into the courage and sacrifice of so many people who served.
Canadian War Museum
Canada’s national museum dedicated to documenting military history and the study of armed conflict. At 11:00 a.m. on November 11, natural light passes through a window, highlighting the Tombstone of the Unknown Soldier inside the Memorial Hall. Remembrance Day resources include information about Indigenous veterans.
Location: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Learn about Canada’s aviation history and space exploration, including military exhibits.
Location: 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
This national historic site offers an immersive experience to explore Canada’s underground Cold War communications headquarters.
Location: 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa
National Air Force Museum of Canada
View an impressive collection of vintage and modern aircraft and learn about the nation’s air force history at CFB Trenton in Quinte West.
Location: 220 RCAF Road, Astra
Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment Museum
This collection of military artifacts and documents of historical significance to the Regiment and its antecedent units is in the Belleville Armouries.
Location: 187 Pinnacle Street, Belleville
Military Communications and Electronics Museum
Explore items related to military communications at this site dedicated to honouring “the troops, the times and the technology.”
Location: 95 Craftsman Boulevard, Kingston
Canadian Tank Museum
Home to a fascinating collection of operational historic military vehicles and the Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum.
Location: 1000 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa
The Royal Canadian Military Institute
View one of Canada’s largest collections of military artifacts and archival materials, including firearms, uniforms and medals of the Royal Canadian Military Institute (RCMI). Check operating hours before visiting.
Location: 426 University Avenue, Toronto
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
View a showcase of Canadian military planes, vintage aircraft, aviation exhibits and a flight simulator near Hamilton.
Location: 9280 Airport Road, Mount Hope
Battlefield House Museum and Park
The Gage family homestead is a national historic War of 1812 site where the Battle of Stoney Creek was fought. The Battlefield Monument symbolizes peace and commemorates the soldiers who died.
Location: 77 King Street West, Stoney Creek
Canadian Military Heritage Museum of Brant County
Detailed displays and exhibits honouring Canadian military heritage, with a special focus on the Brantford, Brant County and Six Nations area.
Location: 347 Greenwich Street, Brantford
Canadian Aviation Museum
Home to vintage military aircraft and artifacts that relate to Canadian aviation history.
Location: 2600 Airport Road, Windsor
Kingsville Military Museum
Located behind Royal Canadian Legion Branch 188, this museum focuses on the area’s military and civic history.
Location: 145 Division Street South, Kingsville
Base Borden Military Museum
Set on the grounds of CFB Borden near Barrie, this museum holds one of Canada’s most significant collections of WWI, WWII and other armoured vehicles, aircraft and artifacts. Check operating hours before visiting.
Location: 27 Ram Street, Borden
Billy Bishop Museum
Located in the childhood home of WWI flying ace and Victoria Cross recipient, Air Marshal William Avery “Billy” Bishop, this national historic site commemorates his life and explores Canada’s experience during past conflicts.
Location: 948 3rd Avenue West, Owen Sound
Great War Flying Museum
See replica WWI aircraft and explore exhibits dedicated to aviation history. This museum is open seasonally, from Victoria Day weekend in late May to Labour Day weekend in early September.
Location: 13691 McLaughlin Road, Cheltenham
Whether you attend an Ontario Remembrance Day ceremony, wear a poppy or visit a museum, there are many meaningful ways to honour those who served.
Last updated: October 7, 2026