On exactly 11am, on November 11 1918, World War I came to an end. It might not have been “the War to End all Wars” but to this day, Canada’s veterans, civilians and leaders gather at Ottawa’s War Memorial for a moving ceremony, honouring the fallen on Remembrance Day. The sombre morning features parades, speeches, airforce fly-overs, and the 21-gun salute. Various other memorial celebrations take place throughout the city.
Length of Trip : Half Day
Cost : Street processions are free. Museum admission is free on Remembrance Day.
Best time to go : November 11
Wheelchair friendly : Yes
Family friendly : Yes
Where to eat : High-end: Play Food & Wine Mid-level: Heart and Crown Irish Pubs Aulde Dubliner & Pour House Budget: Grab something delicious at the ByWard Market
Official Site : http://www.warmuseum.ca/remember
Where to Stay : The Fairmont Chateaux Laurier has the ideal location to follow the events, and you get to stay in an iconic Canadian hotel.
Getting There : Veterans gather on at the War Memorial on Elgin Street. Crowds gather quite early, lining the street or sitting on the grass banks of Parliament Hill.
Note from Robin : The Remembrance ceremonies take place rain or shine. You’ll notice everyone wearing a red plastic poppy on their outerwear. They are available for donation just about everywhere. At exactly 11am on November 11, a beam of sunlight shines through a single window into the War Memorial’s Memorial Hall, framing the headstone from the grave of Canada’s Unknown Soldier. Click here for our round-up of Canadian War Memorials abroad.