How to Fold a Canadian Flag

February of 1965 brought the inauguration of a new flag for Canada. The government adapted a symbol to be used as the national flag of Canada, and it was introduced to the country at a ceremony on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. For guests and dignitaries alike, the event culminated in the speech by Honorable Maurice Bourget, Speaker of the Senate. He introduced the flag as the nations’ symbol of unity. Though there have not been any required methods developed for folding the Canadian flag, there are techniques for flag owners to follow that will deliver a uniquely Canadian result when folded appropriately. A portion of the Red Maple Leaf will be viewed at all times after folding the Canadian flag in this manner.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 1 Canadian Flag (4 1/2 x 9 feet)

1. Present the Canadian flag from a horizontal position to a vertical one. Fold it twice, lengthwise.

2. Present the Canadian flag again in a horizontal position and then let the fly of the flag be folded in twice to the hoist. Fold the hoist side over the fly side of the Canadian flag so that that a portion of the Red Maple Leaf is still visible on the outside of the fold.

3. Handle the flag with care while folding and present the folded flag to the dignitary or recipient of the folded flag when finished. This folding of the Canadian flag will represent the care taken when handling an important national symbol such as a country’s flag.

4. Raise the Canadian flag at an appropriate moment, so it can be unfurled at the top of the flag pole. To achieve this effect, fold the Canadian flag as described above, but after folding, roll the flag toward the fly of the flag. Take a lightweight cotton wrap and tie the flag so that it remains rolled, and can be unfurled with a tug when wanted. This inspiring effect to a nation’s flag can be used at the recommendation of the event coordinator, depending on the type of event.

5. When covering a coffin at a funeral, the flag should be removed when the coffin is placed upon the lowering platform above the grave. Present the flag horizontally, move to the side until clear of the coffin, and continue folding as normal. Present the flag to the family member who is representing the deceased as a symbol of national gratitude and respect at the time of death.