Vimy Gala 2025

Vimy Gala

Now in its 33rd edition, the Vimy Gala is widely recognized as one of the most exclusive and distinguished events in Canada’s defence and security community. Each year, the Gala brings together Senators, Members of Parliament, foreign dignitaries, senior public servants, general and flag officers of the Canadian Armed Forces, and leaders from the defence and security industry to honour Canada’s fallen heroes and celebrate exceptional Canadians who have shaped the nation’s defence and security landscape.

More than just a ceremony, the Gala is a powerful evening of reflection, recognition, and national pride. At its centre is the presentation of the Vimy Award—an esteemed honour recognizing a Canadian who has demonstrated selfless service, visionary leadership, and a lasting commitment to national defence and the preservation of democratic values.

As a hallmark on the national calendar, the Vimy Gala is a unifying and inspiring experience that pays tribute to the values of service, sacrifice, and excellence.

Event Details

November 5, 2025
Canadian War Museum: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8

Sequence of Events
Chairman’s Circle VIP Champagne Private Reception (by invitation only) : 1700-1745
Vimy Gala Reception: 17:30-1900
Dinner and Award Ceremony: 1900-2100

General (ret’d) Walter Natynczyk, CMM, MSC, CD
32nd Vimy Award Laureate

The Conference of Defence Associations Institute is happy to announce the 2024 Laureate of the Vimy Award, General (ret’d) Walt Natynczyk for his significant and outstanding contributions to Canadian security and defence and to the promotion and preservation of Canadian democratic values.

General Walter Natynczyk’s career and service to the nation have been exemplary, culminating with the roles of Chief of the Defence Staff, President of the Canadian Space Agency, and Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs.

Learn more about the 2024 Laureate of the Vimy Award.

Sold Out

The Vimy Gala is now sold out. If you wish to be put on a waiting list, please contact Jennifer Giguere at jennifer@cdainstitute.ca

Vimy Gala Tribute

Are you attending the Gala and have a personal connection to the CAF?

Many of us share a deep and personal connection to the Canadian Armed Forces. Service to Canada isn’t just a part of our national story — it’s part of our own. It’s the friend who deployed overseas. The parent or great-grandparent who wore the uniform. The colleague whose quiet strength speaks volumes. It’s your time of service — and the service of those you hold close.

This year at the Vimy Gala, we are creating a special tribute to recognize those who have served — not just in the pages of history, but in our families, our friendships, and our lives that are connected to each guest of the Gala.

We invite you to share a photo that reflects your personal connection to the Canadian Armed Forces. Selected photos will be featured in a visual tribute during the Gala — a moment to recognize the people behind the service: those who wear, or have worn, the uniform, and whose dedication and sacrifice have helped shape our country.

Each submitted photo reflects a direct and personal tie to the guests attending the Vimy Gala, making this tribute not only meaningful — but deeply ours.

Send your photo to: galatribute@cdainstitute.ca

Hosted Guest Program

We are happy once again to provide the Hosted Guest Program which allows table holders to donate seats (in divisions of 2) to share the Vimy Gala experience with key stakeholders in our community. If you are interested, please let us know and we will help you find and connect with the right match. Participants include:

Currently serving general and flag officers (allow for a +1 spouse)
Veterans from the Perley Rideau Health Centre (allow for a +1 – caregiver)
Royal Military College Officer Cadets
Volunteer Member of the CDA Institute Board of Directors

Please note that in the case of the general and flag officers requested guests, DND will conduct due process to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest.

Once your table is secured, a member of the CDA Institute team will reach out to you regarding the Hosted Guest Program and other information on your Gala experience.

Vimy Award

Established in 1991, the Vimy Award is one of Canada’s most prestigious honours in the defence and security community. The award recognizes a Canadian who has made a significant, outstanding, and enduring contribution to the defence and security of our nation, as well as to the preservation of the democratic values that define us. Recipients of the Vimy Award are individuals whose leadership, vision, and dedication have had a lasting impact on Canada’s national security, both at home and abroad.

The award is named in honour of the Canadian soldiers—comprising the four divisions of the Canadian Corps—who fought with extraordinary courage and determination to secure victory at the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917. That pivotal moment in Canadian military history stands as a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and national pride. The Vimy Award carries forward that legacy by celebrating individuals who embody the same spirit of service and commitment to country.

Stay tuned for updates on the 2025 Vimy Award Laureate, who will join the ranks of a distinguished group of Canadians recognized for their exceptional contributions to our nation’s safety, sovereignty, and democratic integrity.