National Anthem of Canada

Historical Background

Canada has two official languages—English and French. Therefore the National anthem of Canada is also in both the official languages. The music of the original National anthem of Canada was composed by Calixa Lavallée and the lyrics were written in French by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The first public rendition of “O Canada”, the National anthem of Canada was made in the year 1880, on the occasion of St. Jean-Baptiste Day celebrations. At that time the anthem failed to make a lasting impression. “O Canada” gained official status on 1 July 1980, when it was formally declared the National anthem of Canada.

Several English versions of the National anthem followed but the present official English version of the anthem is based on the lyrics written by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir in 1908. The official English version of Canada's National anthem had been suitably altered on the recommendation of a Special Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Commons.

National Anthem Etiquette

As such there is no legal code of conduct governing the playing of the National anthem of Canada.

As one of the National symbols of Canada, it is appropriate to stand during the singing of the National anthem as a matter of reverence and custom.

If anybody is wearing a hat during the playing of the National anthem, it is appropriate to take off one's hat as a matter of respect.

Here are the official versions of the National anthem of Canada both in English and French-

Official English version

O Canada! Our home and native land!

True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,

The True North strong and free!

From far and wide, O Canada,

We stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Official French version

Ô Canada! Terre de nos aïeux,

Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux!

Car ton bras sait porter l'épée,

Il sait porter la croix!

Ton histoire est une épopée

Des plus brillants exploits.

Et ta valeur, de foi trempée,

Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.

Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.

This site provides a brief historical background of the National anthem of Canada. For more information on Canada browse more through the pages of 123independenceday.com