Holiday fireworks displays in Ontario

When to see professional fireworks

Popular professional fireworks are held in Ontario for the following holiday events.

Victoria Day

Victoria Day is a national public holiday in Canada. It was declared in 1845 to celebrate the birthday of Queen Victoria, the reigning queen at the time.

The holiday occurs on the last Monday of May before May 25. Communities across Ontario host elaborate Victoria Day fireworks displays to commemorate this historic occasion.

If you’re looking for things to do on Victoria Day, catching a fireworks show should be first on your list.

Canada Day

July 1 is Canada Day, a federal statutory holiday. Formally called Dominion Day, Canada Day is held on the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation, when Canada as a nation was formed on July 1, 1867.

The biggest and best Canada Day fireworks displays take place in major cities, although smaller towns and communities will also host fun events and activities with evening fireworks energizing night skies.

Labour Day

The Labour Day holiday in Canada takes place on the first Monday of every September and will often feature fireworks in the evening.

Historically part of a labour union movement for workers’ rights in terms of conditions and pay, the holiday has evolved into a celebration of workers' achievements.

New Year’s Eve

Celebrated around the globe, New Year’s Eve on December 31 marks the last day of the year in the Gregorian calendar.  Revellers will celebrate at parties with food, drinks, dancing and a countdown of the last remaining minutes of the year. A great fireworks presentation is often the highlight of the event.

Where to watch fireworks in Ontario

Here are some great places to watch professional fireworks in Ontario.

Ottawa Parliament Building, Ottawa

Every year, hundreds of people come to watch the official Ottawa Canada Day fireworks celebrations in the heart of the nation’s capital city. As part of this official event, you’ll enjoy interactive activities and live performances by Canadian musicians.

The exact location of where the fireworks in Ottawa are launched has changed in past years, so check official websites ahead of the Canada Day event for current information. In 2024 the fireworks will take place at LeBreton Flats Park.

Location: Wellington Street, Ottawa

Ashbridges Bay, Toronto

One of the most popular Canada Day fireworks locations in Toronto, the Ashbridges Bay fireworks display was previously held at Woodbine Beach. This spectacular fireworks show usually takes place on Victoria Day and Canada Day and lasts about 15 minutes, drawing large crowds of kids and adults every year.

There may be dedicated shuttle buses from Woodbine and Coxwell stations to the fireworks site—keep an eye out for their transit schedule.

Location: 1561 Lake Shore Boulevard East, Toronto

Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan

Witness amazing fireworks at Canada’s Wonderland on various dates throughout the year. The park’s fireworks displays are held after the park closes at 10:00 p.m.

All of Wonderland’s fireworks displays boast unique, custom designs that are set to an original soundtrack. It’s a perfect way to end your fun day at the amusement park.

Location: 1 Canada's Wonderland Drive, Vaughan

Niagara Falls, Niagara

Watch both the sky and the famous Niagara Falls light up in colour with the city’s wonderful fireworks shows.

In addition to holidays like Canada Day, you can enjoy the beautiful sight of Niagara Falls’ fireworks displays during the city’s summer series fireworks. Winter Festival of Lights is another eagerly anticipated seasonal attraction. During this popular event, fireworks shows are held on weekends, over the Christmas holidays and on New Year’s Eve.

Great spots to watch Niagara Falls fireworks include outdoor spaces in Niagara Parks, atop the Skylon Tower or Niagara SkyWheel and hotels and restaurants that feature stunning views of the waterfalls.

Location: Niagara Falls

Dundas Driving Park, Hamilton

Fireworks in Hamilton are often celebrated on Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day and New Year’s Eve and will often draw sizeable crowds.

Enjoy entertainment, food trucks and of course, the main attraction of the night is the professional fireworks display shimmering in the Hamilton sky.

Location: 71 Cross Street, Dundas

Ford Fireworks, Windsor

Known as the Ford Fireworks, this breathtaking fireworks display captures audiences’ attention every Canada Day.

A variety of creative pyrotechnic effects are visible along the Detroit River. Several

Downtown Windsor streets are closed for the event and do not reopen until after midnight. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the free bus rides by Transit Windsor. 

Location: Windsor

Grand Bend Beach, Grand Bend

Enjoy live performances, concerts, and big screen viewings, as well as amazing fireworks displays in Grand Bend.

This small community located an hour northwest of London hosts the largest fireworks displays in southern Ontario. Its annual Canada Day fireworks show celebrates the holiday and signals the beginning of the region’s summer season. This event is held at Grand Bend Beach and can be viewed from there or by boat on Lake Huron.

Location: Main Street West, Grand Bend

Bracebridge, Muskoka

Experience the beautiful sight of cascading fireworks over the night sky in Bracebridge.

This Canada Day event features one of the largest fireworks displays in Muskoka, as well as live music, food vendors and a sidewalk sale.

Location: Downtown Bracebridge

Fireworks information, safety and etiquette

Fireworks displays are also weather-dependent, so make sure to check the forecast or website event pages beforehand to ensure the event is still ongoing.

As firework events take place in the evening, come prepared with warm clothing and snacks, water and folding chairs for your comfort. And be sure to leave nothing behind.

Leave the pyrotechnics to the professionals. Local cities, towns, and municipalities regulate the sale and use of fireworks, with strict rules around permitted dates and times, locations, and age limits. For the best experience, plan to attend a professional fireworks display. Check local websites for the most up-to-date information. Many of them will have their own unique schedules with dates and times.