Wed Feb 15th

National Flag Of Canada Day

The official birth of the Maple Leaf Flag, which was installed on February 15th, 1965, is commemorated on National Flag of Canada Day. Canadians mark the day by wearing red and white, raising their flag high, and paying their respect to the big leaf.

Although Canada gained independence from Great Britain in 1868, they continued to incorporate elements of the British flag into their own style. Canada was well aware that its flag needed to be updated by the middle of the twentieth century.

It wasn't until Colonel George Stanley, Canada's top public servant, became passionate about redesigning the flag that it sparked a national debate among citizens. Stanley's idea for Canada's flag was simple, easily recognized, and served as a rallying symbol for unity.

After the House of Commons voted the result 163 to 78, Queen Elizabeth II declared the flag's inauguration on Parliament Hill. The Canadian government decided to observe Flag Day for themselves much later in 1996. Today is a chance to recall and educate others on the power and beauty of a nation's flag.

How to celebrate #canadianflag #canadianflagorg

Do what Canadians do! Locate your nearest ice rink, indulge in some maple syrup, and don't forget to be a little extra polite! "Out and about," ask your Canadian friend to say, "out and about." Figure out who has the best Ryan from Canada...Ryan Gosling or Ryan Reynolds?

#CanadianFlag is a symbol of Canada's flag wave and post it on social media using the hashtag #CanadianFlag.

The national flag day of canada has been observed for the first time in history

In 1996, Canada's first National Flag Day of Canada was held. Although the country does not officially recognize the day, each province determines if the holiday is observed in their countries. Several bills have been introduced to parliament over the years to make Flag Day a statutory holiday, but none have been successful.

Protests broke out at the ceremony in Hull in 1996, when Quebec first recognized National Flag of Canada Day. Jean Chrétien, the then Prime Minister, made his way through the crowds and grabbed one protester by the neck, dragging him aside. This action has become known in Canada as a Shawinigan handshake, since Chrétien hails from Shawinigan. It even has a beer with the same name.