FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
National Ceremony at Beechwood Marks Day of Remembrance and Victory in Europe
Ottawa, Ontario – May 8, 2026 – Beechwood Cemetery, the National Cemetery of Canada, in partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, will host a national Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War ceremony at the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Held annually on May 8, this solemn occasion honours the millions who lost their lives during the Second World War and reinforces the enduring importance of remembrance in safeguarding peace, democracy, and freedom.
This year’s ceremony carries added significance as the international community continues to respond to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The event will serve not only as a moment of historical reflection, but also as a reaffirmation of Canada’s and its allies’ continued support for Ukraine and the principles of sovereignty and the rules-based international order.
The ceremony will feature remarks from His Excellency Andrii Plakhotniuk, alongside senior representatives from the Canadian Armed Forces and national community leaders. The presence of international partners underscores the strength and unity of the global response.
Attendance has been confirmed by dozens of Ambassadors, Deputy Ambassadors, Defence Attachés, and representatives from organisations supporting Ukraine, reflecting a strong and coordinated international presence.
The ceremony will include a traditional Act of Remembrance, the sounding of the Last Post, a moment of silence, and a formal wreath-laying sequence recognizing Canada, Ukraine, the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans, and the people of Ukraine. A wreath will also be laid on behalf of the Ottawa Defence Attachés Association, representing the collective support of allied nations.
“The Day of Remembrance and Victory in Europe is not only about honouring the past, it is about recognizing the ongoing responsibility to defend the values that were fought for,” said Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy, Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach at Beechwood Cemetery. “As we reflect on the sacrifices of the Second World War, we are reminded that peace is not guaranteed. It must be upheld through continued vigilance, partnership, and resolve.”
The event will take place at the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Armed Forces within Beechwood Cemetery and is open to the public.
Event Details:
What: Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War
When: Friday, May 8, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Where: National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Armed Forces, Beechwood Cemetery, Ottawa
Media Contact:
Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy
Director, Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach
Beechwood Cemetery
About Beechwood Cemetery
Beechwood Cemetery is the National Cemetery of Canada and a National Historic Site. As a not-for-profit organization, it serves as a place of national remembrance, honouring the lives and legacies of Canadians from all walks of life. Home to the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Armed Forces, Beechwood plays a central role in preserving Canada’s military history and commemorative traditions.
