Free Canadian-Themed Items Available From The Department Of Canadian Heritage

The Department of Canadian Heritage offers a selection of complimentary Canadian-themed items to citizens, providing patriotic decor, educational materials, and commemorative tokens. These freebies are accessible through an online account system on the official Department of Canadian Heritage website. The available items are designed to celebrate Canadian identity and history, and while intended for Canadian citizens, the process for requesting them involves creating an account and selecting desired products. The offerings range from visual decorations like posters and stickers to more significant items such as flown flags and official government documents.

Available Free Items

The Department of Canadian Heritage provides a variety of items that citizens can request. These items are generally related to national symbols, government documents, and commemorative portraits.

Patriotic Decor and Accessories

For those looking to decorate their homes, classrooms, or personal items, several options are available:

• Canadian Flag Poster: A classic patriotic item, the Canadian flag poster is available for request through the Department of Canadian Heritage. Once a user account is created, individuals can request the poster in their preferred language, with both English-first and French-first versions offered. The poster is described as suitable for various settings, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and classrooms.
• Canadian Flag Sticker: To personalize belongings such as laptops or guitar cases, a Canada flag sticker can be requested from the Department of Canadian Heritage. This allows for a portable display of national pride.
• Handheld Paper Canada Flag: For events or general waving, the government provides small, wave-able paper flags. These are suitable for Canada-focused celebrations or for casual use.
• Temporary Canadian Flag Tattoo: Available on the Canadian Heritage site, these temporary tattoos are described as 100% free and are ideal for Canada Day parties or sports events. The process is noted as less expensive and painful than a permanent tattoo.
• Canadian Coat of Arms Poster: A poster of the Canadian Coat of Arms, which features a lion and a unicorn, can be requested. This item measures 41 x 51 cm and is available in English or French versions. The Coat of Arms is also featured on Canadian passports.

Commemorative and Official Items

Beyond decorative items, the Department offers items of historical and official significance:

• Flown Canadian Flag: A more exclusive item available for request is a Canadian flag that has been flown on the Peace Tower in Ottawa. These flags measure 2.3 x 4.6 metres and would require a flagpole of approximately 13.7 metres. A significant waiting period is associated with this item, estimated to be around 100 years.
• Photo of the Queen: Canadians are eligible to request a free 14 x 17 inch photo of Queen Elizabeth II, who is recognized as the Queen of Canada. This portrait is available for request through the user's account on the Department of Canadian Heritage website.
• Copy of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms: For educational purposes or personal reference, individuals can request a copy of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Two formats are offered: a poster measuring 46 x 60 cm or a smaller certificate measuring 28 x 34 cm.

Special Messages

A unique service offered is the issuance of congratulatory messages from the Prime Minister for significant life events. These messages are available for specific milestones:

• 65th Birthday: And every 5-year milestone birthday thereafter (70th, 75th, etc.).
• 100th Birthday: And every subsequent birthday.
• 25th Anniversary: And every 5-year interval after that (30th, 35th, etc.).

Request Process and Eligibility

Accessing these free items requires navigating to the Department of Canadian Heritage's official website. The process involves creating a user account. Once an account is established, users can browse the available categories of items and make their requests.

While the sources primarily indicate that these items are for Canadian citizens, the request mechanism is an online system that may not have strict geo-blocking for browsing, though shipping logistics would inherently favor Canadian addresses. It is noted for certain items, such as the photo of the Queen, that while the item itself is free, the recipient may be responsible for shipping costs.

Conclusion

The Department of Canadian Heritage provides a distinct collection of free, Canadian-themed materials to its citizens. The program facilitates access to patriotic decor, educational documents, and commemorative items through a centralized online account. The range of products, from everyday stickers and posters to flown flags and official government messages, serves to promote Canadian heritage and celebrate national identity. Interested individuals must create an account on the official government website to view the full catalog and initiate a request for available items.

Sources

1. 9 Free Things You Can Get From The Government That Are Just Oh-So Canadian
2. 7 Super Canadian Free Things You Can Get From The Government Of Canada
3. Canadian Heritage
4. History and heritage