Inaugural Ceremony – June 18, 2025 | Beechwood Cemetery, Ottawa
Beechwood Cemetery, the National Cemetery of Canada, is proud to launch a new national initiative: Under the Maple Leaf – Respecting the Canadian Flag. This program is dedicated to the respectful retirement of tattered, faded, and ripped Canadian and provincial flags, ensuring our cherished symbols are honoured with dignity.
A National Call to Action
We are calling on Canadians coast to coast to coast to join us in this act of remembrance and pride. As stewards of Canada’s history and heritage, Beechwood is uniquely positioned to provide a dignified farewell for flags no longer fit for display. In keeping with Canadian Heritage etiquette, flags will be properly retired through cremation at our state-of-the-art facility, minimizing environmental impact while upholding national respect.
How to Participate
Send Your Flags: Canadians, community leaders, and parliamentarians are invited to collect and send their worn Canadian and provincial flags to: Honour the National Flag of Canada c/o Beechwood Cemetery 280 Beechwood Avenue Ottawa, ON K1L 8A6
Attend the Inaugural Ceremony: Join us on June 18, 2025, for the inaugural sunset ceremony at Beechwood Cemetery. The event will include a solemn procession, the raising of a new flag, and the dignified retirement of collected flags.
“This is an opportunity to show our respect for the National Flag of Canada and our provincial symbols, ensuring they are retired with the dignity they deserve.” — Nicolas McCarthy, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Community Outreach, Beechwood Cemetery
Together Under the Maple Leaf
Help us honour our flag and the values it represents. Let’s come together in unity, remembrance, and national pride.
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