Recognizing Remembrance Day in the Heart of Downtown
- Community
- See & Do
November 6, 2025 / 2 minute read
Downtown Ottawa is home to the National War Memorial, a place where the city pauses each year to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of Canada’s Veterans. Whether you are a long-time resident, a visitor, or someone simply passing through, there are meaningful ways to honour those who have served, past and present.
A Week to Honour Service
Veterans’ Week, observed from November 5 to 11, is a time to recognize all who have served Canada, including more than 12,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Veterans. Across the city, flags at municipal facilities are lowered to half-mast, and the Poppy Flag flies at City Hall, reminding us of the bravery and commitment of our Veterans.
The National Ceremony
At the heart of the city, the National Remembrance Day Ceremony takes place at the National War Memorial on November 11, beginning at approximately 10:30 am. The ceremony brings together Canadians in a moment of silence, wreath-laying, and military tributes, creating a shared space of reflection and gratitude. You can attend in person or watch live on the Royal Canadian Legion’s Facebook page or on local and national news broadcasts.
Honour from the Skies
A striking tribute takes place on November 11. Between 10:50 and 11:59 am, CF-18 Hornets and a Black Hawk helicopter soar over the National War Memorial, the National Military Cemetery, and various Royal Canadian Legion locations. The flyover serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and skill of Canada’s Armed Forces.
Flags and Symbols of Remembrance
Throughout downtown, simple symbols carry deep meaning. Flags at City facilities are lowered on Indigenous Veterans Day (November 8) and Remembrance Day (November 11), while the Poppy Flag at City Hall and other locations serves as a quiet, enduring reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.
Participating in Reflection
Whether attending a ceremony, pausing at the memorial, or simply taking a quiet moment in the city, there are many ways to engage with Remembrance Day. Wear a poppy, visit a Royal Canadian Legion branch, or explore other Veterans’ monuments and historical sites downtown. Every gesture, big or small, helps to honour the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of Canada’s Veterans.
Plan Your Visit
If you plan on attending the National Remembrance Day Ceremony or will be in the downtown core on November 11, be sure to plan ahead. Several streets will be closed from 7 am to 2 pm for the ceremony, including:
- Elgin Street, from Laurier Avenue to Wellington Street
- Wellington Street, from Rideau Street/Sussex Avenue to Bank Street
- Metcalfe Street, between Albert and Wellington streets
- Queen Street, between O’Connor and Wellington streets
- Queen Elizabeth Driveway, between Somerset Street and Laurier Avenue West
There will also be intermittent, rolling closures between 8 am and 1 pm in the area bounded by Nicholas Street (east), Laurier Avenue West (south), Elgin Street (west), and Wellington/Rideau streets (north) as the parade is escorted to and from the National War Memorial.
Consider using transit to get downtown. For more information on transit and street closures, visit OC Transpo.
Lest we forget.
