Calgarians will observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11, to honor the sacrifice of Canadian military personnel. This day is a statutory holiday in Alberta, with various ceremonies scheduled across the city for individuals to participate and show their respects.
Field of Crosses, located on Memorial Drive N.W., will host a Remembrance Day ceremony commencing at 10:30 a.m. The site features over 3,700 white crosses dedicated to individuals from southern Alberta who lost their lives while serving in the military. To accommodate the event, a road closure will be in effect on Memorial Drive N.W. between Fourth Street N.E. and 10th Street N.W. Starting at 9 a.m., parking near the field will be limited, and attendees are advised to park south of the river in the Eau Claire area and walk to the location.
At the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium on 1415 14th Ave. N.W., doors will open at 9 a.m., with the Remembrance Day ceremony scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m. Free parking will be provided for attendees.
The 137 Battalion Memorial in North Glenmore Park will host a ceremony starting at 10:30 a.m., featuring a full parade accompanied by a regimental band to honor the occasion.
The Hangar Flight Museum’s Remembrance Day ceremony will kick off at 10:30 a.m. at the helicopter landing area. Attendees are requested to be seated by 10:15 a.m. The event, held outdoors regardless of weather conditions, requires a cash donation for admission. Following the ceremony, museum entry will be available by donation from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
A Remembrance Day ceremony at The Military Museums will start at 10:45 a.m., urging guests to arrive early and dress warmly. After the ceremony, the public can lay wreaths at the Eternal Flame monument and access the museums by donation. The event will be live-streamed on the museum’s YouTube page.
Studio Bell National Music Centre will host a Remembrance Day ceremony at 10:40 a.m., featuring the Central Alberta Chamber Players. Subsequently, a screening of the documentary short “Tattoo 67” will take place, highlighting military performances during Canada’s centennial celebrations. Veterans and active service members can explore Studio Bell for free on Nov. 11.
CPKC Memorial Square at 7550 Ogden Dale Rd. S.E. will hold a Remembrance Day ceremony at the company’s head office, including a moment of silence at 11 a.m. and the sounding of a train whistle. The company notes that over 33,000 former Canadian Pacific employees enlisted to serve in both World Wars.
The Calgary Highlanders Remembrance Day Parade will encircle Central Memorial Park, commencing at 10 a.m. Several road closures will be in effect until 1 p.m. along 13th Avenue S.W. between Second and Fifth Street S.W., 12th Avenue S.W. between Second and Fourth Street S.W., and Fourth Street S.W. between 12th and 13th Avenue S.W.
In terms of services on Remembrance Day, Calgary Transit will operate on a Saturday level of service, with veterans and their families receiving complimentary rides. Calgary Public Library branches will remain closed, while malls will operate on reduced hours with memorials displayed at select locations. Additionally, free swimming will be available at specific leisure centers, while others and city arenas will be closed.