Flags fly off store shelves in Ottawa as Trump's comments fuel wave of patriotism

Local stores are struggling to keep up with skyrocketing demand for Canadian flags as U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated threats against Canada have fuelled a surge in patriotism — just in time for National Flag of Canada Day.

"I haven't seen Canadian flags sell like this," said Brad Green, owner of World of Maps on Wellington Street in Ottawa.

Amid U.S. threats, the store has sold hundreds of flags and has had to restock to keep pace with sales.

"Anything to do with a Canada flag is very popular," Green said. "When we ran out just this morning, we started printing flags on paper or on plastic, just to keep up."

For some Canadians, flying the flag is more than an expression of national pride — it's an act of defiance, according to Carmen Celestini, a religious studies lecturer at the University of Waterloo.

"I think that this year, of all years, this is an opportunity for Canadians to say we won't back down to this bully," she said.

The patriotic response goes beyond flag-waving, with many Canadians choosing to show their frustration through economic decisions, Celestini said.

"We're visualizing our pride of being Canadian through the flag, but we're also doing it with our wallets, by not traveling to the United States," she said, adding that consumers are also seeking out Canadian-made products.

She believes the surge in flag sales is about more than a single event — it's about sending a message.

Here's what a few residents in the city had to say about why they're buying and hanging up a flag.

Erika Piper

I heard about National Flag day on the radio so my husband and I decided to get one. The flag represents the sovereignty of Canada. Despite not being born in Canada, I really feel Canadian.

Right now, I feel that our freedom, our sovereignty is being threatened. It's an upsetting situation but it feels good to see all of these flags out. Basically all Canadians are on board with this.

Sue Gibb

I grew up on a dairy farm near the Trenton air base in Quinte West, watching planes fly overhead and dreaming of joining the military. I served for 11 years to give back to this land and its people. I'm a really proud Canadian. 

I remember seeing the Red Ensign in school before Canada adopted its flag. When the new maple leaf flag appeared in our classroom, I thought, there's nothing like it anywhere else in the world. I fell in love with it, just as I already loved this country.

For years, I've displayed a Canadian flag on my apartment balcony and am happy to see others take part. Now retired, I run a small business from home, and the flag helps guide customers to the right location.

Jacques Drolet 

It's important to stand up, so I came out to buy a Canadian flag today. It's a way for me to stand up for my country in a peaceful, strong and symbolic way.

When you travel and mention you're Canadian, everyone welcomes you. There's a reason for that.

Beatriz Osorio

I have immense respect and gratitude for Canada. I moved here from Colombia 23 years ago, and this country provided everything I needed to succeed — my career, my son, and a supportive community where I truly identify with Canadian values.

Displaying the flag is my way of showing how much I care about this country and its identity. It symbolizes that — regardless of political views, race, or gender — we are all part of Canada.

Speaking out about buying Canadian products and choosing to travel within Canada instead of the U.S. not only supports the economy but also demonstrates our unity — something we need now more than ever.