Canada Day 2025

Published: 16 June 2025

The Canada Day Service in Folkestone commemorates the 305 Canadian soldiers who died during WWI and are buried in the Shorncliffe Military Cemetery. A memorial service takes place each year on or near Canada Day at the Canadian Servicemen's graves at Shorncliffe, which is attended by local civic dignitaries, representatives from the Canadian High Commission and Canadian Provincial Governments, the local British Army Command, War Graves Commission and Veterans.

Children from several local schools are positioned by Canadian graves and lay flowers on the graves, while the adults are laying their wreaths on the memorial. This tradition started in 1919 and the Mayor of Folkestone stated in 1927 that “As far as Folkestone is concerned, the ceremony should last as long as it is in the power of human beings to do so.” This statement is strongly endorsed by all who participate in the ceremony today.

The service will be held at the Cemetery on 1 July 2025 at 1130 hrs. The Worshipful Town Mayor of Folkestone, Councillor Lucy McGirr, will be attending the service and will be accompanied by the Councillors of Folkestone Town Council, representatives from the Canadian High Commission and the Canadian Detachment in the UK.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the service.