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

Honourary Colonel Michelle Douglass - Vimy Award Laureate 2025

Since 1992, the Vimy Award has honoured Canadians who have strengthened our nation’s defence, security, and democratic values. Named for the bravery shown at Vimy Ridge in 1917, it has traditionally recognized military leaders, diplomats, and public servants.

This year, the Conference of Defence Associations Institute presents the Vimy Award to Michelle Douglas—whose battlefield was not combat, but conscience.

Learn more about the 2025 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

The Legacy Among Us - A Vimy Gala Tribute

Please note photo submissions for the Gala Tribute are now closed.

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

Join us in a special tribute honouring those who have served — not only in the pages of history, but in our families, our friendships, and the lives connected to the guests of the Vimy Gala.

For many of us, the Canadian Armed Forces is not just part of Canada’s story. It is 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 service, and the service of those you hold dear.

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 reminder that this legacy lives among us.

Please submit your photo to Jennifer Giguere at jennifer@cdainstitute.ca subject line: Vimy Gala Tribute.

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.