Decoration Day: Our Ancestors, Our Memorials, and Our Tradition

In local Ontario communities, Decoration Day is a special tradition that continues to hold deep significance, long after it was overshadowed by Remembrance Day as the national day of commemoration. While it originally began as a protest by veterans, it evolved into a cherished community event focused on honoring loved ones and maintaining local cemeteries.

​The History of Decoration Day

​Decoration Day in Canada has a unique origin story. It began on June 2, 1890, when veterans of the Battle of Ridgeway (part of the 1866 Fenian Raids) protested the government's lack of recognition for their service. On the 24th anniversary of the battle, they laid floral tributes at the Canadian Volunteers Monument in Toronto, and this annual act of remembrance became known as Decoration Day. For decades, it was the main way Canadians honored those who died in various conflicts, including the North-West Rebellion and the First World War.

​However, after World War I, the focus shifted. In 1931, the federal government officially designated November 11 as Remembrance Day, a more somber and focused commemoration of military service and sacrifice. While this new holiday gained national prominence, Decoration Day didn't disappear. Instead, it transformed, particularly in rural and small-town Ontario, becoming a local tradition centered on community cemeteries.

​A Day for Community and Remembrance

​Today, Decoration Day in Ontario is less about a national military observance and more about a community-driven event that fosters a sense of connection and shared history. The specific dates vary by community, with many held on a Sunday in the summer months, from May through September.

​The traditions are simple but meaningful:

​Families visit the graves of their loved ones to clean and tidy the sites.

​They place fresh flowers 💐, potted plants, or other decorations on the graves, symbolizing enduring love and remembrance.

​Many communities hold a formal cemetery service, often organized by local churches, historical societies, or the Royal Canadian Legion. These services typically include prayers, hymns, and a moment of reflection, and sometimes honour local community contributors.

​In some areas, the day is also an opportunity to make donations for the upkeep and maintenance of the cemetery, ensuring these historic grounds are preserved for future generations.

​Decoration Day reminds us that a cemetery is not just a collection of headstones; it's a living record of a community’s past. It’s where generations are laid to rest—the early settlers, the soldiers, the local business owners, and the family members who shaped the town.

The Importance of Preserving this Tradition

​In an increasingly fast-paced world, the simple act of slowing down to honor the deceased holds significant value. Decoration Day provides a tangible way for people, especially younger generations, to connect with their family history and the broader story of their town. It's a time for sharing memories, passing down stories, and reinforcing community bonds.

​For many Ontarians, it's a cherished annual pilgrimage—a ritual that embodies respect for the past and a commitment to keeping the memories of loved ones alive. By participating, you’re not just tending a grave; you're helping to preserve a unique piece of local Ontario heritage.