Niagara Falls Events Guide Trip Planning & Itineraries

Fireworks at the Falls

There are few things as stunning as a fireworks display over Niagara Falls. Free fireworks shows are held throughout the summer. Starting from May 15 on Fridays and Sundays, go to Queen Victoria Park (to the Illumination Stage across from the Falls) for free concerts at 8pm, followed by fireworks at 10pm.

Bonus shows featuring fireworks only are held every Wednesday in July and August, and every Friday from September 11 - October 9, 2009. You'll also be treated to fireworks on the following holidays: Victoria Day (May 18), Memorial Day (May 25), Canada Day (July 1), US Independence Day (July 4), Civic Holiday (August 3). Note that fireworks displays are always weather permitting.

Niagara Falls Illumination Shows

Every evening at dusk the Niagara Falls are lit in the colors of the rainbow - don't miss the unmatched beauty of the Falls at night! The illumination of the Falls has been a tradition since 1879 (although the first true light show was held in 1860 in honor of a visit by the Prince of Wales). In summer and winter, the falls are truly spectacular at night when they're bathed in a rainbow of colors.

The Falls illumination schedule for 2009 is:

May 1 to Aug 13: 9pm to midnight
Aug 14 to Sept 30: 8:30pm to midnight
Oct 1 to Oct 31: 7pm to midnight
Nov 1 to Nov 6: 6:30pm to midnight
Nov 7 to Dec 30: 5pm to midnight
Dec 31: 5pm to 1am

Other Seasonal Highlights

It's no exaggeration - there are literally dozens of events held each year in and around Niagara Falls. Some of the seasonal highlights are listed below, you can also check the Niagara Parks events guide for more information.

• Friday Night Ghost Tours at Old Fort Erie: Fridays through October. Hear the eerie stories of the ghosts of Canada's bloodiest battlefield. For reservations call (905) 871-0540.


• Sunday Afternoon Concert Series: July 5 to September 6 from 2-4 pm. This concert Series in Queenston Heights Park feature the sounds of big bands, symphony orchestras, Dixieland and more.


• RCMP Officer Meet and Greet: June 26 to September 7 from 10am to 4pm. Canada is famous for its Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Come to Table Rock House, at the brink of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, on summer Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays to meet RCMP officers for photos and to answer questions.


• The Siege of Fort Erie, 1814: August 8 & 9. Witness the battles of 1814 that turned Old Fort Erie into Canada's bloodiest battlefield. On-going events throughout the weekend and Canada's largest Battle of 1812 reenactment. Special evening lantern tours through the fort. For information call (905) 871-0540 or visit oldforterie.com.


• End of Summer BBQ: August 30 from 4 - 9pm. Join the fun at Queenston Heights Restaurant Patio, with wine tastings, BBQ and live entertainment. Cost is $30 ($15 for children). Space is limited. Call (905) 262-4274 for reservations.