National Flag of Canada Day
National Flag of Canada Day is celebrated in Canada in honor of the national flag, the maple leaf, and its inauguration in 1965. This holiday is not a statutory holiday in Canada, which means that transportation schedules do not change and public schools and businesses remain open. The holiday is celebrated on February 15th in Canada.
Canada (Observance)History of National Flag of Canada Day
The “maple leaf” Canadian flag officially replaced the original flag of Canada, the Canadian Red Ensign, on February 15, 1965. Before the adoption of this flag, Canada had a couple of different flags that had flown over the country. From 1868 to 1921, the Canadian Red Ensign had been flown, and from 1921 to 1965, the Royal Union Flag had been flown.
However, that began to change when Canadian Prime Minister Lester Pearson endorsed resolutions to give Canada a unified flag. In 1964, Prime Minister Lester Pearson formed a committee to find a flag that could be used as the National Flag of Canada and would replace the Union Jack.
Out of three choices, a flag designed by George Stanley was selected. On December 15, 1964, the Canadian House of Commons passed a resolution to make the “maple leaf” the official flag of Canada. By December 17th, it had passed the Canadian Senate.
On January 28, 1965, Elizabeth II proclaimed this flag as the official flag of Canada. On February 15, 1965, it was raised for the first time on Parliament Hill. However, it was not until 1996 that February 15th was officially named National Flag of Canada Day.
National Flag of Canada Day Customs & Celebrations
On this day, the Canadian Flag is not only flown by public institutions but also by many private citizens. It is also not uncommon for special public events to be held or for people to wear Canadian flag pins on their persons. However, since this day is not a statutory holiday, schools and government buildings remain open on this day, as do most businesses. Also, public transportation remains on schedule on this day.
Canada (Observance)
