The Centennial Flame is a major feature on the Parliament Hill grounds. You will find it just inside the Queen’s Gate in front of the Peace Tower. It was originally built as a temporary monument. Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson lit the flame for the first time on December 31, 1966, to open the celebrations of Canada's 100th anniversary of Confederation. Canadians loved the monument so much that it became a permanent feature. The Centennial Flame burns atop a fountain. Each side of the fountain has a bronze shield with the coat of arms of a province or territory. The year that the province or territory joined Canada is carved into the granite in front of the shield. The granite is also carved with the provincial or territorial floral emblem. The shields of the provinces and territories surround the flame to symbolize Canada's unity. Every day, visitors make wishes and toss their lucky coins into the fountain.
RR: North America meets the World RR
Date: May 2
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