Changing of the Guard, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada

Changing of the Guards

June 26-August 20, 2016

Every summer morning Parliament Hill is alive with music and colourful drills. The Changing of the Guard began as a morning routine on the Hill in 1959, and has turned into an annual tradition. This large-scale production includes a regimental band and pipers. The ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. each morning, but arrive about 15 minutes early to grab a spot with a great view.

Changing of the Guards




Fast Facts

  • The ceremony begins on Parliament Hill at 10:00 a.m. sharp each morning, following a march by the Guard from its Cartier Square Drill Hall just south of Parliament Hill and up Elgin Street.
  • The Ceremonial Guard is assembled from two regiments – the Governor General’s Footguards and the Canadian Grenadier Guards – and also has its own regimental band and pipers who perform in the ceremony.
  • Most of the Ceremonial Guardsmen taking part in the ceremony are university and college students; all are primary reservists in the Canadian Forces.
  • Performances are free of charge. For best viewing, arrive on Parliament Hill at 9:45 a.m.

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards

Changing of the Guards