Commemoration for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
"Canadians have, by their own endeavours, built a country and society which is widely admired across the world. I am fortunate to have been witness to many of the developments and accomplishments of modern Canada. As Queen of Canada for nearly six decades, my pride in this country remains undimmed."
The Government of Canada marked the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with a 10-day period of mourning and a national commemorative ceremony.
National commemorative ceremony
The Government of Canada held a national ceremony in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on Monday, September 19, 2022, at Christ Church Cathedral in Ottawa.
The ceremony began with a memorial parade consisting of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. A gun salute of 1 round per year of life was conducted during the memorial parade.
Invitees to the ceremony included government officials, dignitaries and representatives of organizations with whom Her Majesty had a close connection such as charities and military regiments.
Watch the ceremony with audio description
Program for the national commemorative ceremony
Photo gallery of the ceremony
Other commemorative activities
National Day of Mourning
To honour the memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a National Day of Mourning was proclaimed on the day of the ceremony.
Half-masting of the National Flag of Canada
Flags on all Government of Canada buildings and establishments in Canada and abroad were flown at half-mast from the day of the passing until sunset on the day of the funeral, with the exception of the day on which the new Monarch was proclaimed.
Illuminations across Canada
To highlight the important connection between Her Majesty and Canada, buildings and sites at several places visited by Her Majesty in Canada were illuminated in a royal blue hue in the evening during the period of mourning. For example, the Parliament buildings were illuminated with a projection of the Royal Cypher of Her Majesty on the Peace Tower.
Funeral at Westminster Abbey
A State funeral was held at Westminster Abbey, in London, United Kingdom, on September 19, 2022, prior to the national commemorative ceremony held in Ottawa on the same day.
Find information on the State funeral
About Her Majesty
Learn more about the late Queen Elizabeth II, her dedication to duty and her special relationship with Canada. Take a look back at her lifelong commitment to our country through a commemorative video and a selection of photographs taken during her many visits.