Matching the colour of the skies in which they fly, landmarks across Canada - and the world - will be illuminated in blue for one day to celebrate the Royal Canadian Air Force’s centennial.
On April 1, the RCAF will celebrate its official centennial. For a century, the air force and its personnel have defended Canada, its people, allies, and interests.
In celebration of those who have and continue to serve Canada at home and abroad, famous landmarks, city halls, businesses, embassies, and residences across the world will be illuminated in blue on April 1.
Currently, more than 300 landmarks in 20 countries are confirmed to be participating in the illumination campaign.
In Canada, this includes the CN Tower, Montréal Tower, Calgary Tower, Vancouver Sails of Light, Esplanade Riel, and Niagara Falls. More landmarks and countries are expected to join the illumination campaign in the coming weeks.
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The RCAF is also encouraging Canadians across the country to join in the campaign and light up their cities, businesses, and homes in blue, and to share photos on social media using the hashtags #RCAF100 and #100YearsOfFlyingBlue.
Additionally, the RCAF is collaborating with Guinness World Records, as they will attempt to break the world record for most landmarks illuminated in 24 hours.
The Guinness World Record attempt is just one of many ways the Royal Canadian Air Force will be celebrating its centennial.
Throughout the spring and summer, events like air shows, the RCAF Run, gala balls, and commemorative tree plantings will take place across Canada and the world.
In spring 2023, RCAF Hon.-Col. Loreena McKennitt told the Record when she reflects on the history of the Air Force, there is much more than just combat.
“There’s peacemaking, there’s sovereignty patrol, there’s search and rescue, there’s transport, and of course the disaster relief domestically and internationally. So when one is talking about the history of the RCAF, one may primarily first go to what was accomplished in the contribution of the wars. But in actual fact, there’s been so much and there is every single day. So much that goes on to protect and serve Canadians.”
For more information on these events, visit the RCAF 2024 Centennial website.