Things to Do on Canada Day: The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating Across Canada

Planning What to Do on Canada Day 2025? Here’s How to Celebrate!

Canada Day, celebrated every July 1st, is one of the most exciting and unifying days across the country — a day packed with parades, fireworks shows, live music, food trucks, free admission to museums, and joyful gatherings. Whether you’re spending it in a small town, the heart of a city like Toronto or Ottawa, or somewhere scenic like Niagara Falls, this guide will help you plan the ultimate Canada Day celebration for 2025.

As someone who’s celebrated four Canada Days in Canada now, I can honestly say it’s one of the most magical and meaningful national holidays I’ve experienced. Here’s everything you need to know – from events and celebrations to free experiences and where to watch fireworks.

1. Attend a Local Canada Day Celebration or Parade

Nearly every city and town in Ontario hosts Canada Day celebrations – think vibrant parades, local performances, face painting, food vendors, and cultural displays. Whether you’re in a major city like Toronto or a smaller Ontario town, you’ll likely find a full day of fun nearby.

🧡 Many cities post updates about their 2025 Canada Day events on their websites by early June, so keep an eye out for free admission details and park locations.

✅ Local Tip: Canada Day in Ottawa is extra special – it’s where you’ll see the official fireworks show, national performances, and celebrations around Parliament Hill.

2. Watch a Fireworks Show

Canada Day fireworks are an absolute must. Most cities host a dazzling nighttime fireworks show, often paired with live performances or music events in local parks or waterfronts.

📍Top fireworks locations include:

• Harbourfront Centre in Toronto
• Parliament Hill in Ottawa
• Niagara Falls (watch them light up over the falls!)
• Celebration Square in Mississauga
• Downtown Halifax Waterfront

💡Bring a blanket or lawn chair, arrive early, and check city listings for fireworks timing.

3. Enjoy Live Music and Cultural Performances

Whether you love rock, folk, or Indigenous drumming circles, Canada Day always brings the best of Canadian talent to the stage. Most local events feature free live music, dance shows, and sometimes even celebrity appearances. You’ll find these shows in city parks, historic sites, or even at museums offering free admission on the day.

🎤 Don’t forget smaller venues like:

• The Toronto Music Garden
• Local city bandshells
• Street festivals or open mic nights

4. Try Iconic Canadian Food

Food is always a highlight — and many cities bring out food trucks, artisan markets, and community barbecues on Canada Day. If you’re hosting at home or exploring a park, try these staples:

🍁 Must-try Canada Day eats:

• Poutine
• Maple syrup pancakes
• Beavertails
• Butter tarts
• Canadian craft beer
• Grilled local meats

✅ Look for food trucks in city centers or near Canada Day parks — many offer free samples or themed menus!

5. Visit a Historic Site or Museum (Many Offer Free Admission!)

Many museums and historic sites across Ontario and Canada open their doors for free or discounted admission on Canada Day.

🏛️ Great places to explore include:

• Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto)
• Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau)
• Historic Fort York
• Casa Loma
• Local heritage homes and city museums

These spots are perfect for learning about Canada’s Indigenous history, immigration stories, and national milestones – all while avoiding the summer heat.

6. Enjoy a Full Day in Nature

With Canada Day falling in peak summer, it’s the perfect excuse to spend the day outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, picnicking, or simply lounging by the water, there’s no shortage of beautiful parks and green spaces across Canada.

🏕️ Some popular ideas:

• Go canoeing in a nearby lake or river
• Visit a provincial park (many offer free entry on Canada Day!)
• Take a day trip to Niagara Falls or the Bruce Trail
• Have a family picnic at your local city park

🎒 Pack tip: Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, and your Canadian flag!

7. Volunteer or Give Back Locally

Canada Day is also a great time to reflect and connect. Consider volunteering at a local event, supporting a charity booth, or helping out with community clean-ups.

It’s a feel-good way to celebrate what it means to be Canadian – kind, inclusive, and supportive.

8. Shop Local or Visit a Farmers Market

Many cities host Canada Day weekend markets, featuring everything from handmade goods to seasonal produce.

🧺 Don’t miss:

• St. Lawrence Market (Toronto)
• Ottawa Farmers’ Market
• Local small-town pop-up markets

Look out for red-and-white themed souvenirs, maple-syrup products, and local Canadian-made crafts.

9. Watch the Sunset in Your Favourite Spot

End the day with a magical sunset view – whether it’s over the city skyline or the calm of a rural lake.

📸 Some of my favorite spots:

• Toronto’s Trillium Park
• Lakeside parks in Mississauga or Oakville
• Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Any west-facing beach or rooftop patio

Bring your camera, a light blanket, and soak in the glow.

10. Dress the Part and Celebrate with Spirit

You’ll see people dressed head to toe in red and white on July 1st — and it’s one of the easiest ways to join the fun!

🎈 Essentials to show your spirit:

• Canada flag t-shirts or face paint
• Red sunglasses or accessories
• A small handheld flag or mini pin

It’s festive, fun, and totally Canadian.

What to Pack for Canada Day

• 🇨🇦 Red & white clothing or flag
• Sunscreen + bug spray
• Hat or cap
• Phone or camera for photos
• Debit/credit cards for food trucks
• Blanket or lawn chair
• Reusable water bottle

Canada Day FAQs

What is Canada Day?
Canada Day celebrates the confederation of Canada in 1867. It’s a national holiday held every July 1st, filled with festivities across the country.

Is Canada Day free?
Yes! Most events, fireworks, and museum entries offer free admission on July 1st.

Where are the best fireworks in Ontario?
Popular spots include Ottawa, Toronto, Niagara Falls, and local waterfronts.

What’s open on Canada Day?
Most museums, national parks, and event spaces are open. Many stores and services may have reduced hours — check ahead.

Where can I watch live music?
Live performances happen in major parks, city squares, and stages across the country – most free and open to the public.

Celebrate Canada Your Way

Whether you’re watching fireworks, dressing in red and white, visiting a historic site, or enjoying a local food truck, Canada Day is a celebration for everyone. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on what makes Canada special — the people, the land, and the spirit of unity.

No matter where you are in Ontario (or beyond), there are endless ways to celebrate Canada Day – so plan your full day and enjoy every moment.