Remembrance Day - Jour du Souvenir
2031Tuesday, November 11
Quick Facts
- Date
- Tuesday, November 11, 2031
- Observed in
- Canada
- Type
- National Holiday
What is Remembrance Day - Jour du Souvenir?
Remembrance Day, known in French as Jour du Souvenir, is observed annually on November 11 in Canada. This solemn day commemorates Canadian Armed Forces members who have died in the line of duty, from World War I to present-day military operations.
The date marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Canadians pause to remember the sacrifices of veterans and serving members of the military.
When is Remembrance Day - Jour du Souvenir 2031?
Remembrance Day - Jour du Souvenir is on Tuesday, November 11 in 2031. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
Remembrance Day originated from Armistice Day, first observed in the British Empire in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I. Canada's Parliament established November 11 as a legal holiday in 1931 under the name "Remembrance Day."
The day honors the more than 118,000 Canadian soldiers who died in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and subsequent conflicts including peacekeeping missions. The red poppy became the symbol of Remembrance Day, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields" written by Canadian Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae in 1915.
How It's Celebrated
Two Minutes of Silence: At 11:00 AM, Canadians observe two minutes of silence to honor those who have fallen.
Cenotaph Ceremonies: The main national ceremony takes place at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, attended by the Governor General, Prime Minister, and veterans. Similar ceremonies occur at cenotaphs across the country.
Wearing Poppies: The Royal Canadian Legion distributes millions of poppies, worn on the left lapel close to the heart. Donations support veterans and their families.
Laying of Wreaths: During ceremonies, wreaths are laid at memorials by veterans, military personnel, government officials, and community members.
Where It's Observed
Remembrance Day - Jour du Souvenir is a public holiday in 1 country. In 2031, it falls on Tuesday, November 11.
Fun Facts
- The poem In Flanders Fields was written by Canadian military doctor John McCrae in just 20 minutes after presiding over the funeral of a friend
- The two minutes of silence tradition began in 1919, proposed by Australian journalist Edward Honey
- More than 118,000 Canadians have died in military service since Confederation
- The poppy was adopted as the symbol of Remembrance in 1921, inspired by the poppies that grew on the battlefields of Flanders
- November 11 became a statutory holiday in Canada in 1931
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Remembrance Day in Canada?
Remembrance Day is observed on November 11 every year, marking the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918.
What is the French name for Remembrance Day?
In French, Remembrance Day is called Jour du Souvenir.
Is Remembrance Day a statutory holiday?
Remembrance Day is a federal statutory holiday. However, it's only a provincial statutory holiday in some provinces. In Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, it's not a provincial statutory holiday, though ceremonies still take place.
Why do Canadians wear poppies?
The red poppy is worn to remember those who have died in military service. It was inspired by the poem In Flanders Fields and the poppies that grew on the battlefields of Belgium and France.
What happens at 11:00 AM on Remembrance Day?
At 11:00 AM (the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month), Canadians observe two minutes of silence to honor those who died in military service.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Remembrance Day - Jour du Souvenir? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
