The RCMP Academy, "Depot" Division, is pleased to present the Sunset-Retreat Ceremony. This colourful event lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes military music, the lowering of the Canadian flag, the March Past, and a troop drill display performed by cadets dressed in the famous scarlet tunic.

You are also invited to meet our mounted riders, horses and Safety Bear following the ceremony.

The Sunset-Retreat Ceremony is performed for the public every Tuesday from July 1 through to mid-August. The events start at 6 pm. and visitors are encouraged to arrive by 5:45 pm. Parking is available at the RCMP Heritage Centre at 5907 Dewdney Avenue. Cadets in period costumes will direct guests from the parking lot to the best viewing areas.

On evenings of performances, the RCMP Heritage Centre will be open until 9 pm.

In case of rain, the event will be cancelled and an announcement will be made on local radio stations.

A Military Tradition

This ceremony is an old British military tradition dating back to the 18th century and is referred to as a “ military tattoo”. The term “tattoo”, derived from an old Dutch word meaning “turn off the taps”, comes to us from the 17th century when a soldier’s life was strictly controlled by his regiment. The daily routine of a military post was signaled by the beat of a drum. At sunset, a lone drummer was sent into the streets of town to beat out a tattoo. It was the signal for the tavern owners to close down for the night and for military personnel to return to the post. When the latter were back at the post, the flag was lowered in a ceremony marking the end of another day.

For more information, please contact Communications and Events Management Services at 306-780-5900 or email Depot.Division@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.