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How to Wear a Poppy

Tomorrow is Remembrance Day in Canada, and this year more Canadians than ever are wearing poppies as a way to honour our veterans for their sacrifice. With the recent attacks in Canada fresh in our minds, I wasn’t surprised to read that 19 million poppies have been distributed this year – one million more than last year.

Remembrance Day has certainly taken on added meaning after last month’s tragic events. This year Remembrance Day ceremonies will feel very raw for all of us.

Below are a few poppy etiquette suggestions to ensure you are showing the most respect for the honoured tradition.

• Traditionally, a poppy is worn on your left side, closest to your heart, but the fact that you’re choosing to wear the poppy speaks volumes.
• Poppies can be worn any time of year to show support for fallen soldiers, but traditionally poppies are worn from the last Friday in October until November 11.
• Nothing should be worn in front of the poppy.
• After November 11, poppies can be attached to a wreath at your local cenotaph after the Remembrance Day service.
• If you find a discarded poppy, The Salvation Army suggests you place it in the cemetery or at the foot of a war memorial.

We encourage you to purchase a new poppy every year as the money raised through poppy donations goes toward programs and financial assistance to help veterans in need and their families.

Tip: To prevent your poppy from falling off, try sliding a plastic earring backing on the end of the pin. Here are some more tips to keep your poppy in place. What tips do you have for keeping your poppy in place?

Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette and tagged poppy etiquette, Remembrance Day.