The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is proud to announce that, with the support of communities, businesses, and citizens in Canada and around the world, it has set a new Guinness World Record for the most landmarks lit in 24 hours. This feat was accomplished on April 1, 2024, as part of the RCAF's Centennial Celebrations, highlighting a century of service and dedication to Canada.
Guinness World Records had strict requirements as to what constituted a landmark, and after reviewing the evidence, the Guinness World Records officials confirmed that the RCAF set a new World Record, with 56 landmarks illuminated in 24 hours, breaking the previous record of 38 landmarks set in 2010. To be considered a landmark by Guinness World Records, a location must be recognized by UNESCO, national governmental registers, or significant third-party registers. For this record, pre-confirmed locations were verified and approved by Guinness, with evidence including a 10-minute timestamped video, a photo of the landmark illuminated in blue on April 1, 2024, and two witness statements.
The Guinness World Records certificate was presented to Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander of the RCAF, Chief Warrant Officer John Hall, Command Chief Warrant Officer of the RCAF, and Captain Aaron Niles, Strategic Planner for the RCAF Centennial Team and lead for the illumination campaign, during the RCAF Centennial Ball on June 1, 2024, in Ottawa.
The initiative illuminated over 350 sites across Canada, including landmarks, government buildings, museums, and private residences. A display of blue light, the colour of the RCAF, marked the event, symbolizing national pride and gratitude for the RCAF's contributions over the past 100 years
The celebration of this record-breaking achievement extended beyond Canada's borders. RCAF supporters worldwide joined together to honour the RCAF's legacy and achievements, from Canadian embassies lighting up their buildings to landmarks across the globe. This global participation underscores the international respect and admiration for the RCAF's century-long history of excellence and service.
In partnership with communities and cities nationwide, the event saw iconic landmarks like the CN Tower in Toronto and Parliament Hill in Ottawa illuminated, creating a nationwide display of unity and celebration.
The RCAF Centennial celebrations, a year-long tribute to our rich history and heritage, will continue with exciting events and activities. This significant milestone in our nation's history invites all Canadians to join the celebrations and learn more about the RCAF's contributions to national and global peace and security efforts.
Quotes
“We are incredibly proud to have set this Guinness World Record. This illumination event was a visual spectacle and a heartfelt tribute to RCAF personnel, past and present, who have served our country with distinction. We are grateful to all Canadians and our global partners who participated and helped us light up the nation and the world in celebration of our Centennial.”
Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force and Chief of the Air Force Staff
“To see so many people come together to celebrate the Centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force was truly remarkable. Over the past century, the RCAF has achieved incredible feats thanks to the dedication and talent of its amazing personnel. This milestone is a testament to all who participated at home and abroad, whose unwavering support has made such achievements possible.”
Colonel Margaret Jacula, Campaign Manager, RCAF 2024
Quick Facts
Over 350 locations in Canada, across all 10 provinces in Canada participated in the illumination event.
In total, over 500 locations illuminated worldwide in 26 countries.
Internationally, locations in Australia, Austria, Bermuda, England, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Peru, Poland, Scotland, Slovenia, South Korea, and the United States participated.
The full list of participating locations from the illumination campaign can be found on the RCAF Centennial Website.
The RCAF had landmarks which counted towards the Guinness World Record in the following countries: Canada, Scotland, South Korea, New Zealand, France, Austria, Estonia, and Ireland. Out of the 56 landmarks, 42 sites were in Canada:
