About state funerals and national commemorative ceremonies

State funerals are public events that may be held to honour and commemorate present and former governors general, and present and former prime ministers and sitting members of the Ministry. In addition, any eminent Canadian may be offered a state funeral at the discretion of the Prime Minister.

National commemorative ceremonies are held to honour special Canadians, members of the Royal Family, or citizens from another country who have had an impact on Canada. An example of a commemorative ceremony would include the service to commemorate the passing of Her Majesty Elizabeth the Queen Mother in 2002 held in Canada.

State funerals and national commemorative ceremonies provide an opportunity for the public to honour great Canadians and participate in demonstrations of national grief.

Learn more about state funerals by consulting our frequently asked questions and look at the list of past state funerals and national commemorative ceremonies that have been organized and administered by the Government of Canada.