Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day, is observed on November 11 every year to honor the sacrifices of those who served in the armed forces. This solemn occasion marks the anniversary of the Armistice Agreement, signed on November 11, 1918, to end the First World War. The ceasefire came into effect at 11 a.m., symbolizing the end of hostilities on the Western Front.
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In Canada, the first Remembrance Day was held in 1919, and since then, it has become a day of national remembrance. Royal Canadian Legion branches and many cities across Ontario hold ceremonies and parades to pay tribute to veterans. Here’s a detailed overview of what’s open and closed on Remembrance Day in Ontario, along with key ceremonies you can attend.
Remembrance Day Ceremonies in Ontario
1. Mississauga
- Ceremony Location: Mississauga Civic Centre Community Memorial (upper portion of Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Dr.)
- Time: 10:30 a.m. on November 11
- The ceremony will include the traditional observance of two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. to honor the fallen.
2. Brampton
- Parade and Ceremony Location: Ken Whillans Square, Cenotaph (2 Wellington St. W.)
- Date: November 11
- Residents can expect a commemorative parade and a ceremony honoring veterans and active service members.
Finding Other Ceremonies
To locate additional Remembrance Day events and ceremonies near you, visit the Royal Canadian Legion’s website for more information.
Understanding Remembrance Day in Ontario
Although Remembrance Day is recognized across Canada, it is not a statutory public holiday in Ontario. This means that most workplaces and businesses are not required to close, and employees may not be given the day off. However, some employers choose to grant time off or offer a flexible schedule to allow workers to attend remembrance ceremonies.
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What’s Open on Remembrance Day
1. Shops and Shopping Malls
Most retail stores and large shopping centers, such as:
- Square One Shopping Centre
- Bramalea City Centre
- Sherway Gardens
- Eaton Centre
These locations are expected to operate on regular hours. It’s advisable to check with individual stores for any potential schedule changes.
2. Grocery Stores
Major grocery chains, including:
- Loblaws
- Sobeys
- Metro
- No Frills
These will be open during their usual business hours, ensuring you can complete your shopping as needed.
3. Liquor and Beer Stores
- LCBO: Some locations may open later than usual. It is best to check ahead for specific opening times.
- The Beer Store: Most locations in Ontario will open at 12 p.m. on November 11. Certain Beer Stores in the Ottawa area will open at 12:30 p.m..
4. Government and Community Services
- Provincial and Municipal Government Offices: Most services, including libraries and community centers, will remain open. Always verify with your local service provider.
- Public Schools: Schools will be open and may hold ceremonies or activities in honor of Remembrance Day.
What’s Closed on Remembrance Day
1. Federal Government Services
- Canada Post: There will be no mail delivery, and post offices will be closed.
- Service Canada and Passport Services: These offices will not operate on November 11.
2. Banks
- Most major banks will be closed for the day, so plan any banking activities accordingly.
Ontario’s Public Holidays
In Ontario, there are nine official public holidays, and Remembrance Day is not included. The recognized holidays are:
- New Year’s Day
- Family Day
- Good Friday
- Victoria Day
- Canada Day
- Labour Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- Boxing Day (December 26)
Honoring Remembrance Day
Despite the fact that Remembrance Day is not a public holiday in Ontario, many people still choose to observe the day by attending ceremonies or wearing a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance. The two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless Canadians for peace and freedom.
For further information on the history and significance of Remembrance Day in Canada, you can visit the Government of Canada’s website.
Stay mindful of the solemnity of the day, and consider participating in a ceremony or paying your respects in your own way.
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