On February 15th, Canadians across the country will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the National Flag of Canada. 

Canada’s iconic flag was first raised on Parliament Hill on February 15, 1965. On that day, we bid farewell to the Canadian Red Ensign and welcomed a new flag—one that reflects our shared identity through enduring and familiar symbols.

Throughout the early 20th century, Canadians called for a distinctive flag that represented our unity and independence. Determined to find a solution, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson established a parliamentary committee to review design options.

Thousands of submissions were considered. After careful deliberation, the committee selected a design proposed by George Stanley, Dean of Arts at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. Featuring a single maple leaf, his design reflected a long-standing symbol of Canadian pride, courage, and loyalty. The new Canadian flag was officially raised in Ottawa, marking a defining moment in our nation’s history.

The flag’s colours—red and white—had been Canada’s national colours since 1921 when King George V assigned them to us. The maple leaf, recognized as a national symbol since the 1830s, represents unity, strength, and pride. The adoption of the flag brought these elements together in a single, powerful emblem.

Whether flying at Canadian Forces bases, schools, or in the hands of new citizens and those born here, our flag is a profound symbol of belonging. Simple yet meaningful, it is more than just fabric—it embodies our values and celebrates who we are as a nation.

As we mark this milestone, all Nova Scotians are encourage to take part in commemorating our flag and the citizenship we share. In the months ahead, Government House looks forward to celebrating this emblem of our nationhood, unity, and collective spirit.