Changing of the Guard

[Manfred M]

A few shots taken during the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. The guards are on duty at Rideau Hall as well as at the National War Memorial from the end of June to the end of August.


1. The "Old" Guard marches in from the East Block of Parliament Hill lead by a pipe band.





2. The "Old" Guard marches in behind the pipes and drums. The commander has the key to the guardhouse of Rideau Hall (the Governor General's Residence) tucked into his waistband.





3. The "Old" Guard wait to be relieved by the "New" Guard





4. The "New" Guard march in from the Cartier Square drill hall, accompanied by a military band.






5. The commander of the guards inspects the old and new guard





6. After the transfer of the key and guard duties, the bands, old and new guard march off Parliament Hill

[pschlute]

Over this side of the pond we all know about the Mounties. I had no idea you also had guards that wear almost identical uniforms to the ones over here.

[Tom Barry]

It is very reminiscent of the guard changing at Buckingham Palace, which I have witnessed and photographed. And quite impressive.

[rpcrowe]

Super coverage. I'd really like to see it in person!

[Shadowman]

Nice series.

[FootLoose]

I would never have guessed Canada had this tradition. Well executed captures.

[Dave Humphries]

~ I had no idea you also had guards that wear almost identical uniforms to the ones over here.

Neither did I.

It is very reminiscent of the guard changing at Buckingham Palace, which I have witnessed and photographed.

Also happens at Windsor Castle several times a week, weather and other events permitting. They march along the public roads for about 1/3 mile before the ceremony inside the castle, so even those who don't pay to go in the castle can see something (at 10:45).

Of course; there's a website with dates and other information. Not sure when in year it starts, but it runs through August and most of September.

Cheers,
Dave

[Manfred M]

Yes, Canada definitely has this tradition and the roots of the Canadian military are closely tied to that of the British one. The guard's uniforms are very similar to the ones worn by the British Queen's Guard

The guardsmen come from two different reserve regiments; the Governor General's Foot Guards (they were the red plume in the bearskin hats) and the Canadian Grenadier Guards, who have the white plumes.

The changing of the guard runs from late June through to late August every year and starts at 10:00AM every day.