National Flag of Canada Day

National Flag of Canada Day History

National Flag of Canada Day honours the symbolic emblem that unites Canadians and represents their identity. The event is not only a tribute to the nation's unique heritage but also serves as a reminder for the Canadian people to uphold the values and principles of the country. The Canadian flag, featuring red and white colours and the iconic maple leaf, stands as a symbol of perseverance, peace, and unity among its citizens and the world.

The history of National Flag of Canada Day dates back to 1965 when the present design was first inaugurated on February 15th, replacing the Red Ensign. The concept behind the flag was to develop a distinctive symbol that reflected the nation's sovereignty and pride while avoiding any colonial association. This significant change aimed to strengthen national unity among Canadians and establish a more profound sense of patriotism. Over the years, the Canadian flag has evolved into a symbol of identity for the country's diverse population, reflecting their shared values, aspirations, and contributions to developing a prosperous nation.

In Canada, National Flag of Canada Day is observed in multiple ways. It is an opportunity for individuals, families, schools, and organizations to acknowledge the importance of the Canadian flag by flying it, participating in educational activities, and displaying it in public spaces or social media platforms. People encourage one another to be proud of their national symbol and engage in relevant discussions or learning experiences. National Flag of Canada Day occurs every year on February 15th, serving as a momentous occasion for Canadians to cherish their flag and embrace the principles it embodies.

Top facts & quotes about National Flag of Canada Day

• In 1864, Canadians were invited to create and submit their own designs for the new flag. Around 5,900 unique designs were submitted to the committee in Ottawa. In the end, it was George Stanley's design that was selected as the new national flag. The red and white maple leaf flag was one of the three final proposed designs for the new flag. Ultimately it won over the parliamentary committee with its simplicity.
• Until 1965, Canada had used Britain's Union Jack flag as its own. This served as a symbol of historical colonial ties between Britain and Canada. To this day, many Canadian provinces still have the Union Jack as a component of their flags.
• Quebec was the only province that cared very little about the new Canadian flag. Quebec is a province that was primarily colonized by the French Empire. It has traditionally maintained stronger ties to France than to Britain. Quebec does not give a tinkers dam about the new flag. It's a matter of complete indifference - Liberal politician Pierre Trudeau (who went on to become Prime Minister)
• The flag is the symbol of the nation’s unity, for it, beyond any doubt, represents all the citizens of Canada without distinction of race, language, belief or opinion - Maurice Bourget, the Speaker of the Senate at the Inauguration of the new flag in 1965.
• I believe that today a flag designed around the Maple Leaf, will symbolise and be a true reflection of the new Canada - Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson

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Top things to do for National Flag of Canada Day

• Make your own Canadian flag. Draw it, paint it, model it, make it however you would like.
• Include some Canadian Maple syrup in a meal today. Maple syrup is extracted in the winter and spring months from taps on the very tree whose leaf makes the Canadian flag so recognizable.
• Join in on a municipal or provincial flag raising ceremony and participate in the singing of Canada's national anthem, O Canada. Every year Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario hosts a flag raising ceremony.
• Count the number of Canadian flags that you see today. Compete against your friends to see who can spot the most flags.
• Attend a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game in Toronto, Ontario