Canadian Symbols
Canada's symbols reflect its history, values and identity. From the Crown and the maple leaf flag to the beaver and the national anthem, these symbols connect Canadians to their shared heritage.
The Crown
The Crown is a symbol of government, including Parliament, the legislatures, the courts, the police services and the Canadian Armed Forces. The Crown has been a symbol of the state in Canada for centuries and represents the long tradition of constitutional monarchy that links Canada to other Commonwealth realms.
The flag and the maple leaf
The national flag of Canada is the red and white maple leaf flag, adopted in 1965. The maple leaf is Canada's best-known symbol and has been associated with Canada since the 18th century. Red and white are Canada's official colours, approved by King George V in 1921.
Other widely recognized flags in Canada include the Canadian Red Ensign, used before 1965, and provincial and territorial flags.
The coat of arms and other emblems
Canada's coat of arms was adopted in 1921. It includes symbols of England, Scotland, Ireland and France, along with red maple leaves, and bears the national motto, A Mari usque ad Mare, which means From Sea to Sea.
- The beaver is an official emblem of Canada and a symbol of the early fur trade and Canadian industriousness.
- The maple tree and the maple leaf are enduring symbols of Canada.
- The national horse is the Canadian Horse.
- Provincial flowers, birds and tartans add to Canada's rich array of symbols.
O Canada and the royal anthem
O Canada is the national anthem. It was proclaimed as the official national anthem in 1980, one hundred years after it was first sung in 1880. God Save the King (or Queen) is the royal anthem of Canada and may be played to honour the Sovereign.
Remembrance Day and the poppy
Remembrance Day is observed each year on November 11. On this day, Canadians honour the men and women who served and died in wars in the service of their country. Many Canadians wear a red poppy and observe a moment of silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking the end of the First World War.
Languages, currency and the Victoria Cross
- English and French are the two official languages of Canada and have equal status in the federal government.
- Canada's currency is the Canadian dollar. Coins include the penny (now phased out), nickel, dime, quarter, the loonie (one dollar) and the toonie (two dollars).
- The image of the Sovereign appears on coins and on the twenty-dollar bill.
- Hockey is the national winter sport and lacrosse is the national summer sport.
- The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest honour available to Canadians for the most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy.