Remembrance Day: A Guide to Remember and Honour
First, I'd like to share a photo of my grandpa, Francis Doepker, and his brother, Bernard Doepker. They are originally from the small town of Annaheim, about 1.5 hours from Saskatoon. Both served in WWII. Thank you, Grandpa, and to everyone who has served and continues to serve.
SaskTel Centre Remembrance Day Service
Every year, SaskTel Centre holds a Remembrance Day service open to the public. This year marks the 93rd service, honouring all who have served. This event is Canada's largest indoor Remembrance Day service, and for those unable to attend in person, it will be streamed online. Doors open at 9:00 am, and the service begins at 10:00 am.
Saskatoon Transit is providing free bus transportation to SaskTel Centre, with buses departing from:
Downtown Special Events Stop (23rd Street and 2nd Avenue): Service every 20 minutes starts at 9:00 am, with the final bus leaving by 10:20 am.
Market Mall: Buses depart from the mall transit terminal at 9:45 am.
Centre Mall: Buses depart from the mall transit terminal at 9:45 am.
Return trips will begin immediately after the ceremony. Additionally, Saskatoon Transit offers free rides all day on November 11 for current Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans.
Photo Credit: Louis Christ
University of Saskatchewan
The University of Saskatchewan will host its 96th annual wreath-laying ceremony on November 11 at 1:30 pm. Held at Memorial Gates near the College Drive entrance of the Royal University Hospital, this outdoor event welcomes everyone. Please dress warmly for the weather.
Photo Credit: University of Saskatchewan, University Archives and Special Collections, RG2024-Division of Media and Technology fonds, 2006-086-1838, "Memorial Gates
Saskatoon Chambers Singers Remembrance Day
The Saskatoon Chamber Singers will hold their annual Remembrance Day concert as a tribute to those who have served. This event occurs on November 11 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at Knox United Church on Spadina Crescent. The concert includes Canadian compositions and writings, traditional acts of remembrance such as The Last Post, a moment of silence, and Reveille. Musical guests Kayla Solomon (trumpet) and Kevin Junk (oboe) will perform, with readings woven throughout the music. Tickets are $30 for general admission and $15 for students, available here.
Photo Credit: Saskatoon Chamber Singers
Saskatoon Museum of Military Artifacts
The Saskatoon Museum of Military Artifacts, located at 3021 Louise Street, invites families, veterans, and history enthusiasts to an open house on Remembrance Day from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. The museum's collection tells the stories of those who have served. Admission is free, with donations welcomed. Learn more here.
Photo Credit: Saskatoon Museum of Military Artifacts
Indigenous Veterans Day
Today, November 8, is Indigenous Veterans Day across Canada. In Saskatoon, Remai Modern will screen two films throughout the day: Cree Code Talker from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and Windtalkers from 7:00 to 9:30 pm at the SaskTel Theatre on the second floor. More information is available here.
The Métis Nation Saskatchewan also hosts a private ceremony for Métis veterans and their families on Indigenous Veterans Day, with a livestream for those unable to attend. Details are available here.
Photo Credit: Remai Modern Website-Cree Code Talker (film still)
The Royal Canadian Legion Saskatoon Branch #63
The Royal Canadian Legion Saskatoon Branch #63 will hold an open house on November 11, with doors opening at 10:30 am. Enjoy performances by the Highlanders Pipes and Drums, Saskatoon Police Pipe and Drums, Highland Dance Group, and more. Food will be available for purchase from noon to 3:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend—find more information here.
Photo Credit: The Royal Canadian Legion Saskatoon Branch #63
Each of these events offers a meaningful opportunity to honor those who sacrificed for our freedom. Thank you to all who have served. Lest We Forget.
Bailie Knowles
Bailie grew up in a small town but was always a "city girl" at heart. Saskatoon is home to her and her family. Her household is full of love and chaos with her husband, four (wild) & wonderful children, and their beloved furry companion. Bailie works as a Marketing & Communications Coordinator with Discover Saskatoon. She loves getting out into the community with her family and taking in all of Saskatoon's events and attractions. Her family loves discovering new parks, trying new restaurants and breweries, hitting up all the events, and attending sporting events like the Saskatchewan Rattlers & Huskies. Follow along with her family adventures @bailie.knowles on Instagram!