Ceremonial Guard performed first Changing of the Guard ceremony

The Ceremonial Guard performed its first Changing of the Guard ceremony for the 2019 season this week.

In its 61st season, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is the most recognized military tradition in Canada’s Capital and has attracted thousands of visitors to Parliament Hill since the first mount in 1959.

The first Guard Mount marks the start of the 2019 public duties season in which soldiers and musicians of the Ceremonial Guard will proudly take part in different celebrations including the annual Fortissimo military musical concert on Parliament Hill from July 18 to 20 2019.

This year, for a brief period at the beginning of the summer, the Changing of the Guard Ceremony will also take place on the grounds of Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Governor General of Canada.

“The Changing of the Guard is an honoured tradition which demonstrates the discipline and excellence of the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces. Being a member of the Ceremonial Guard involves intense training and demands dedication and a commitment to military service. It is something bigger than one’s self. It is an honour for all members of the Ceremonial Guard to represent Canada,” says Major Stephane Tremblay, Commanding Officer of Ceremonial Guard

Note that there will be no Changing of the Guard Ceremony from June 25 to 27 due to preparations for the Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill.

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony will take place on the grounds of Rideau Hall from June 28 to 30 and July 2 to 5. From July 6 – August 24 the ceremony will return to the lawns of Parliament Hill for the duration of the 2019 season.

The start time for the Changing of the Guard ceremony is at 10:00 a.m.

In addition to the Changing of the Guard ceremony, members of the Ceremonial Guard perform daily sentry duties at Rideau Hall, the official residence and workplace of the governor general of Canada.