We shall not forget: Remembrance Day events part of weekend roundup

By: Patricia D’Cunha and Amber LeBlanc

It’s been 70 years since the end of the Second World War, and the memories are still fresh in the minds of veterans and their families. Stories from this war, battles past and ongoing missions will be shared at ceremonies leading up to Remembrance Day next week.

On Nov. 11, Canadians will stop to remember soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom, and those who are currently serving in countries around the world.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
– Lt.-Col. John McCrae

A Remembrance Day ceremony and a tribute will be held in Toronto this weekend. Those heading down to those events should note there’s a partial subway closure on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) due to TTC work.

Remembrance Day events

Remembrance Day at Scarborough Civic Centre
A number of ceremonies and events honouring Remembrance Day are taking place across Canada this weekend, ahead of the solemn day next week. In Toronto, a commemoration will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Scarborough Civic Centre.

Queen’s Own Rifles Day
Hear performances by the Queen’s Own Rifles band and meet members of the regiment at Casa Loma during Saturday’s event being held in honour of Remembrance Day. First World War and Second World War re-enactors will also be on hand, including military vehicles and armament. Soldiers, veterans and cadets will be able to access Casa Loma for free Nov. 7-11.

Since its inception in 1860, the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada has been called to service during the Fenian Raids and the North West Rebellion, as well as the two world wars. The regiment is based in Toronto, and is part of 4th Canadian Division’s 32 Canadian Brigade Group. Click here to read about the history of the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada.

Other events

Toronto International Antiquarian Book Fair
Fall in love with the written word, or rekindle your love affair with it, at this book fair. No, Kindle readers won’t be for sale here. Rather, antiquarians will be able to find first editions and signed works, incunabula (a book printed before the start of the 16th century in Europe), illustrated books, as well as maps, prints, manuscripts and other treasures. The fair is being held at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) from Friday to Sunday. It is free with admission to the AGO.

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
Bringing the country to the city! A beloved November tradition is back at Exhibition Place for its 93rd year. The fair starts Friday and runs until Nov. 15. Along with the farm animals, there are world class horse shows, exhibits, a butter tart competition, a wine garden, food, a petting farm and many other events and activities for all ages.

Big Bold Brass
There’s something lovely and beautiful about the deep rich sounds of lower-pitched instruments like the tuba.

Hear that and other instruments at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s concert celebrating all things brass on Saturday. One of the performances includes Richard Wagner’s The Ride of the Valkyries, which features the thumping tuba, trombones, trumpets and horns. Showtimes are at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Before the show, concert-goers can catch a performance by Toronto’s tuba quartet Euba in the lobby.

CN Tower Climb

It’s a little daunting but thousands of people are about to get the ultimate workout for a very good cause. On Saturday, it’s the CN Tower Climb for the United Way. You can register in-person for the public climb by going to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North Building, Hall C), with a fundraising minimum of $100. The United Way says those who conquer all 1,776 stairs will help make meaningful change for thousands of families in the city. The corporate challenge takes place on Sunday.

Hockey Hall of Fame induction weekend
The careers of some hockey stars will be solidified into “legend” status this weekend. It’s induction weekend at the Hockey Hall of Fame, with a number of activities planned. You can see some retired big names in action Sunday during the Hall of Fame Legends’ Classic hockey game at the Air Canada Centre featuring Team Gilmore vs. Team Bure. The class of 2015 will be officially inducted on Monday.

Canada’s Walk of Fame
Some very famous Canadians are getting red-carpet ready for a glam afternoon in downtown Toronto on Saturday. Canada’s Walk of Fame is holding its 2015 induction ceremony, which will feature celebrities walking the red carpet including Michael Bublé, Silken Laumann, and Don Cherry & Ron MacLean. After the star presentation, there’s a show and concert at the Sony Centre hosted by Jason Priestly and featuring a performance by rising Pickering pop star Shawn Mendes. Click here for ticket information.

TTC closure

Partial closure on Line 2

Another subway shutdown this weekend. Trains won’t be running between Keele to St. George on the Bloor-Danforth line Saturday and Sunday because of track work.

All trains on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) will turn back westbound at Keele Station and eastbound at St George Station, but frequent shuttle buses will be running.