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Remembrance Day
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On this day we honor those who sacrificed their lives in the past and continue to serve now for our freedom. November 11th marks the end of the First World War and serves as a reminder that without our armed forces, we would not have the freedom we know today. Many of us today have no idea what it is to live through war but it is still important to take time to acknowledge, appreciate and preserve our history so we never take for granted how lucky we are to live in the true north strong and free.

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Remembrance Day is not a national statuary holiday but there are services held for all to join throughout the country, typically hosted by your local Royal Canadian Legion. Schools also have lessons, activities and ceremonies to teach children the history. And of course there are ceremonies hosted by the federal government held at the National War Memorial.

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However you spend the day, take a moment to reflect and be thankful for your freedom.

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Lest we forget.

Traditional Ways of Celebrating & What Inspires Us:

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THEME​

  • Poppies

  • Freedom

  • Patriotism

  • Peace

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BEAUTY & FASHION

  • Casual, red, black, poppy graphic or uniform for members of our armed forces

  • Wear your poppy! Other poppy or maple leaf accessories​​​​​​

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DÉCOR​

  • What do you have in storage?

  • Do you need anything new to compliment your theme?

  • If hosting, create a space to take photos

  • Purchase a wreath or lawn sign from your local Legion or online

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ENTERTAINMENT​

  • Watch your favourite war movies or tv series

  • Create a playlist of songs reflecting remembrance and freedom

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FLOWERS

  • Red

  • Poppies

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FOOD & DRINK​

  • If hosting an after ceremony luncheon, put together a simple spread of finger foods: sandwiches, wraps, fruit and veggie trays, crackers, dips

  • Offer beverages for all: water, juice boxes, pop or beer, considering the crowd​​​​

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FUN

  • Attend a local Remembrance Day ceremony

  • Spend time with a veteran - go for a walk, grab coffee or enjoy a meal together​​​​​​

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GIFTS & GREETINGS

  • Host gifts: flowers or a small plant, their favourite beverage, baking or favourite treats​​​​​​​​

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PARTY TIME

  • Attending?

    • Get yourself ready (hair, nails, makeup, outfit)

    • Host gift (see gifts & greetings)

    • Pack your own beverage

    • Potluck? Prepare and pack your contribution

    • Take photos

  • Hosting?

    • Guest list & invites

    • Clean house

    • Yard maintenance

    • Theme décor

    • Get yourself ready (hair, nails, makeup, outfit)

    • Prepare menu

    • Entertainment (music, games…)

    • Display previous years’ photos and take more to add

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PHOTOS

  • Take photos of yourself and those you are celebrating with

  • Look back on past years with an organized slideshow or photo album

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QUOTES

  • "Lest we forget"​​

  • "For your tomorrow, we gave our today" - John Maxwell Edmonds

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TRADITIONS

  • Local ceremony / moment of silence

  • Donation to your local Legion

  • Wearing a poppy

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KIDS & CLASSROOM FUN

  • Poppy or soldier art

  • Kid friendly music and books about Remembrance Day​​​​​​​​​

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WORKPLACE

  • If working in a public place, contact your Legion to have poppies available for donation

  • Attend a local ceremony as a group

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