Canada Day: 1)Canada Day events in Simcoe County: Celebrate with a BANG!, 2) Where to watch fireworks for Canada Day in Simcoe County; 3) True patriot love. Large Canadian flag raised in Barrie symbolizes a free and independent country, says Mayor
1) Canada Day events in Simcoe County: Celebrate with a BANG!
Fireworks and more across Simcoe County and Muskoka
Courtesy Barrie 360
By Dan Blakeley, June 25, 2025
Here’s your guide to where to celebrate Canada Day across Simcoe County in 2025.
Canada Day On The Move – Barrie
Barrie is bringing the celebration to local parks with Canada Day On The Move! These pop-up events feature family-friendly fun including:
- A DJ dance party
- Face painting
- Games
- Inflatables
- Interactive art with the MacLaren Art Centre
- Nature play activities with the City’s Parks team
Plus, enjoy a reptile show from Scales Nature Park and high-energy hula hoop performances by Darlin’ Darlin’ Cowgirl.
Open Air Dunlop Canada Day – Downtown Barrie
Celebrate Canada Day in the heart of downtown Barrie with live music, street performances, and all-day family fun along Dunlop Street and at Meridian Place. This vibrant street festival features:
- Live entertainment and roaming performers
- Family fun zones with games and activities
- Kids Day activities presented by the Kiwanis Club
- A live wrestling showdown at Meridian Place
- Free Canada Day cupcakes
- Big band and country music performances
- Fireworks over Kempenfelt Bay at 10 PM
- A Salsa after-party with live instruction
It’s an action-packed day filled with community spirit!
Celebrations at Centennial Park – Barrie
Satisfy your cravings at Barrie’s Canada Day Food Truck Festival! Enjoy a tasty lineup of food vendors serving everything from sweet treats to savoury eats. Families can check out the paid fun zone by Moonwalk Entertainment, featuring inflatables, games, fun food, and more. Play passes available on site starting at $20.
Later in the day you can enjoy Ultimutts Animal Actors Show where trainers will showcase the talents of incredible animals who have performed in TV and movies.
Other fun activities happening at Centennial Park include:
- Darlin’ Darlin’ Cowgirl Hula Hoops Show
- Phil Dacosta Magic Show
- Roaming & Musical Buskers
- Luna Periwinkle Fire Show
- Fireworks over Kempenfelt Bay at 10 PM
Zipline at Snow Valley – Minesing
Experience the thrill of summer adventure this Canada Day weekend at Snow Valley with the launch of Summit Soar, a new 1,400-foot zipline soaring 75 feet above Ontario’s Best Snowtubing Park.
Opening on Saturday, June 28, Summit Soar promises adrenaline-pumping excitement for all ages, featuring four lines where riders can reach speeds up to 65 km/h. Designed for shared fun, families and friends can race side-by-side or enjoy the scenic views together.
Beyond the zipline, guests can indulge in outdoor games, scenic photo opportunities, and treats from the Sno-Nut Hut. Summit Soar marks Snow Valley’s commitment to year-round adventure and enhancing local tourism with thrilling new experiences close to home.
Canada Day Celebrations – Wasaga Beach
Wasaga Beach is throwing an all-day Canada Day celebration packed with family fun, live music, and fireworks by the water.
Enjoy a pancake breakfast, garden games, a bubble zone, face painting, and arts and crafts in the Children’s Activity Tent. Stick around for an evening concert featuring Juno Award winners The Strumbellas, plus performances by Grace and Fiyah Brigade.
Upgrade your experience with $20 VIP tickets for front-row seating, exclusive food trucks, and access to the Side Launch Brewing Co. beer garden.
Cap it all off with a dazzling fireworks display over the beach!
Canada Day Celebrations – Town of New Tecumseth
The Town of New Tecumseth invites everyone to a fun-filled Canada Day celebration at Tottenham Conservation Area. From 4 PM until dusk, enjoy free entry to festivities featuring:
- Food vendors
- Live entertainment
- Fireworks
- Mascots
- Face painting
- Carnival games
- Vendor market
- And more
A convenient shuttle runs from Coventry Park to the event site to make your experience easy and enjoyable.
Canada Day Celebrations – Bradford West Gwillimbury
Join the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury for a festive Canada Day celebration at the Bradford & District Memorial Community Centre from 4 PM to 10:30 PM. Enjoy a full evening of entertainment including magic shows, dance performances, live music by The Wheat Kings, and the dazzling Pyromeo Fire Circus Act. The day features official ceremonies, Civic Awards, and ends with fireworks at 10 PM.
Highlights include:
- FireGuy Show and Bella Magic Show
- Elite Dance Corps performances
- Pyromeo Fire Circus Act
- Live music by The Wheat Kings
- Official Ceremonies & Civic Awards presentation
- Fireworks finale at 10 PM
- Kids Zone with inflatables, obstacles, and games
- BBQ fundraiser by the Bradford Lions and Leos
- Food vendors including Mister Treats and Hay Carumba
- Airbrush and glitter tattoos
- Community group booths and strolling entertainers
- Photo booths, giant Canadian puzzle, and Canada Flag photo station
Parking is limited on site, but a free shuttle is available from BWG Leisure Centre.
Canada Day Celebrations – Friday Harbour
Friday Harbour is celebrating Canada Day all weekend long from June 27 to July 1 with festive activities, live entertainment, food and drink specials, and plenty of outdoor fun.
June 27 – Kick off the weekend with Canadian-themed food and drink specials at the Pier Bar, Beach Club, and Lake Club. Enjoy live DJ sets at CIBC Pier from 6 PM to 11 PM. Outdoor adventure options include golf at The Nest and rentals for kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, and SUP.
June 28 – Try slime-making at the beach for $10, catch the Mango Love Band and DJ performances at CIBC Pier, and cozy up at the beach campfire. Don’t miss Canvas in Motion, a unique art showcase featuring a custom Bentley transformed by Canadian artist Peter Triantos.
June 29 – Enjoy canoe paddle painting ($50 per paddle) and Mill St. Beer Tasting happening from 4 PM to 7 PM. Evening entertainment includes a DJ at CIBC Pier and ongoing food specials. Outdoor rentals and golf continue throughout the day.
June 30
Canadian food and drink specials remain at the Pier Bar, with dinner service at Lake Club. Outdoor activities and rentals are available all day, plus golf at The Nest.
July 1 – Canada Day
Celebrate with Canadian specials, Mill St. Beer Tasting, and live DJ sets. End the weekend with spectacular fireworks over the Harbour at 10 PM.
Canada Day Weekend – Horseshoe Valley
Celebrate Canada Day Weekend at Horseshoe Valley Resort on Saturday, June 28, 2025, with fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Dress in your red and white and enjoy a full day of adventure including:
- One round of Ridgetop Mini Golf
- Unlimited scenic chairlift rides
- Gem mining kit
- Unlimited rock climbing wall access
- Full-day access to Lake Horseshoe, including unlimited tube ride pulls
Adventure day passes are $45 for adults (18+) and $30 for youth under 18. All regular summer activities remain open daily through July 1.
Collingwood Festival for Canada Day – Downtown Collingwood
Celebrate Canada Day in style at the Collingwood Festival for Canada 2025! From June 28 to July 1, enjoy markets, music, family fun, and fireworks, all set against the beautiful backdrop of downtown Collingwood and the harbour.
Saturday, June 28
- Take a selfie with the Candid Canuck Canadian icon
- Shop local at the Farmers’ Market (8 AM–1 PM)
- Kids’ LEGO Creative Club with 15,000+ bricks (9 AM–4 PM)
- Explore 70+ local artists at the Collingwood Art Market (10 AM–4 PM)
- Music Stomp: live performances at multiple downtown spots (11:30 AM–3:30 PM)
- Balloon twisting & glitter tattoos (11 AM–2 PM)
- Optimist Club Kids Fishing Derby (8 AM–12 PM)
- Evening concert at Shipyards Amphitheatre featuring Lyric Dubee and Wing Night (6 PM onwards)
Sunday, June 29
- Pop-up roller skating rink at Town Square Park (12 PM–5 PM) — free skating sessions
Tuesday, July 1
- Celebrity Pancake Breakfast with maple leaf-shaped pancakes (8 AM–11 AM)
- Family Bike Parade along Hurontario Street (10 AM)
- Balloon twisting & glitter tattoos (11:30 AM–3 PM)
- Citizenship Reaffirmation Ceremony & giant birthday cake at Federal Building (12 PM)
- Free children’s shows by Theatre Collingwood at Shipyard Amphitheatre: Fiddlefire (1 PM) and Earth, Seas & Air (3 PM)
- 20th Annual Rubber Duck Race at Hume Street Bridge (2 PM) — tickets $5 each or 3 for $10, with cash prizes
- Spectacular fireworks display from Millennium Point (10 PM)
Oro-Medonte Farmers’ Market Canada Day Celebration – Chappell Farms
Kick off your festivities with the opening of the Oro-Medonte Farmers’ Market on Canada Day! The celebration begins at 10 a.m. with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome shoppers and visitors. Explore over 45 local vendors offering a wide variety of fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and artisanal treats. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in some of the best poutine this side of Montreal, a true Canadian comfort food favourite.
In addition to the market, visitors can explore Chappell Farms, adding an authentic farm experience to the day’s fun. Whether you’re shopping for fresh ingredients, enjoying delicious food, or soaking in the community atmosphere, the Oro-Medonte Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination this Canada Day.
Canada Day Celebrations – Orillia
Join the Orillia Canada Day Committee for a full day of family-friendly fun at Couchiching Beach Park and along Mississaga Street as we celebrate Canada’s 158th birthday!
All-day activities include:
- Pancake Breakfast with real maple syrup and sausages (starting 8 AM)
- The Canada Day Parade at 12 PM, starting at City Hall and ending at Couchiching Beach Park
- Wheely Great Parade — decorate your bikes, wagons, skateboards, or scooters and join the fun
- Children’s Village featuring free bouncy castles, crafts, and superhero photo ops
- Midway rides, games, and carnival treats
- Food and Vendor Villages with delicious eats, ice cream, poutine, and local shopping
- Live entertainment at the Rotary Aqua Theatre throughout the day
- Beer Garden with local brews (family-friendly with adult supervision)
- Annual Canada Day Cake cutting at the Pavilion by the lake
- Spectacular Fireworks display at 9:45 PM
The event is made possible by hundreds of dedicated volunteers and sponsors who help create this unforgettable community celebration.
Come early, bring your family, and enjoy a memorable Canada Day in Orillia! See the event map here.
Midland Canada Day Festival 2025
Celebrate Canada Day on July 1st at Little Lake Park in Midland with a full day of family fun, entertainment, and community spirit. The festivities start with the Midland Civitan Canada Day Parade at 10:30 AM (starting at Bayshore Drive and ending at Little Lake Park), followed by a lively day in the park packed with activities.
Festival highlights include:
- Live entertainment on the Little Lake Park stage from 11 AM to 5 PM featuring local talent like Cooper Reynolds, Bex in Motion, Trulee Odd, and FireGuy
- Strolling characters including Stitch, Blippi, and Mario throughout the festival
- Balloon Maestro creating amazing balloon art
- Air bounces and kids’ activities
- Face painting by Bling Face Painting and jewelry-making crafts
- Artisan market with unique local vendors (cash accepted at some stalls)
- Delicious food trucks offering a variety of treats
The day wraps up with a fireworks display at dusk over Penetanguishene Harbour. See map of activities here.
Note: Construction on Yonge Street may affect routes, so visitors are encouraged to use the King Street entrance to Little Lake Park.
No matter where you choose to celebrate, Simcoe County is bursting with exciting Canada Day events for everyone to enjoy. From lively parades and family activities to delicious food and dazzling fireworks, there’s something special for every age and interest.
Happy Canada Day!
2) Where to watch fireworks for Canada Day in Simcoe County
Activities will start at Meridian Place at 12 p.m on Saturday
Courtesy Barrie360.com
By Release, June 27, 2025
Whether you’re lakeside, in town, or heading to a summer resort, there are plenty of amazing spots in and around Simcoe County to catch a spectacular fireworks display this Canada Day.
Here’s where to go:
Barrie – Kempenfelt Bay
Time: 10:00 PM
Celebrate Canada Day in Barrie with a stunning fireworks show over Kempenfelt Bay. Find a spot along the waterfront, bring a blanket or lawn chair, and enjoy the colourful show lighting up the lake.
Orillia – Couchiching Beach Park
Time: Approximately 9:45 PM
End your Canada Day celebrations at Couchiching Beach Park in Orillia with a dazzling display over the water.
Midland – Penetanguishene Harbour
Time: Dusk
Wrap up a full day of family fun at Little Lake Park with a fireworks show over Penetanguishene Harbour. A perfect finale to Canada Day in Midland.
Wasaga Beach – Beach Area 2
Time: Dusk (Approx. 9:00–9:30 PM)
Take in a breathtaking fireworks display right on the beach! Wasaga Beach’s shoreline makes for a magical backdrop as the sky comes alive at dusk.
Collingwood – Millennium Point
Time: 10:00 PM
Enjoy the fireworks from Harbourview Park Amphitheatre or along the Promenade for the best views of this lakeside spectacle.
Friday Harbour Resort
Time: 10:00 PM
Watch the sky explode over Friday Harbour and CIBC Pier at this lakeside resort. With waterfront dining and live entertainment throughout the day, it’s a great spot for a full Canada Day experience.
Bradford West Gwillimbury
Time: 10:00 PM
Head to the Bradford & District Memorial Community Centre for an evening of live music, food, and a grand fireworks finale to cap off the night.
New Tecumseth – Tottenham Conservation Area
Time: Dusk
Gather at the Tottenham Conservation Area for fireworks at dusk, following an afternoon of food, games, and entertainment.
Gravenhurst – Walkers Point Marina
Time: June 28 at Dusk
Celebrate early at Walkers Point Marina in Gravenhurst! Enjoy pop-up vendors, a ski show, live music, and a fireworks show at dusk. You can even catch the display from the water on the Canada Cruise aboard the Wenonah II.
Bracebridge – Bracebridge Bay Park
Time: Evening (After day activities)
Celebrate at the base of the iconic Bracebridge Falls. After a fun-filled afternoon on Manitoba Street and Memorial Park, stay for fireworks in this picturesque Muskoka setting.
Huntsville – Hunters Bay
Time: 10:00 PM
Close out Canada Day with a bang in Huntsville! Fireworks will light up the sky over Hunters Bay at 10 p.m.
Vaughan – Canada’s Wonderland
Time: June 30 at 10:00 PM
Kick off the holiday early with one of the biggest fireworks displays in the region. Set to a custom soundtrack and best viewed throughout the park, this show is a favourite for families looking to celebrate a day early.
Bonus Tips for Fireworks Watching:
- Arrive early to get a good spot
- Bring lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray, and snacks
- Be mindful of road closures and parking restrictions
- Check local websites or social media for weather updates
Wherever you are in Simcoe County this Canada Day, you’re never far from a fireworks show. So look to the skies, soak in the celebrations, and enjoy the magic of Canada’s birthday!
3) True patriot love. Large Canadian flag raised in Barrie symbolizes a free and independent country, says Mayor
Courtesy Barrie360.com
By Ian MacLennan, June 26, 2026
A massive flag is raised at the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus on June 26, 2025. (Image – Barrie 360)
There was just the right amount of wind for the raising of a giant Canadian flag on Thursday morning behind the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus on Fairview Road.
The flag, 35 by 70 feet in size, is attached to a 150-foot flag pole.
As the flag scaled the pole, there was a burst of applause from dignitaries including first responders from Barrie police, Barrie fire, and County of Simcoe paramedics.
The flag is a symoblic gesture by the City of Barrie amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff war and threats of making Canada the 51st state.
“We are a free, democratic country and we determine our own future,” said Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall, as the flag flapped above him in the gusty wind. “It’s important that we take stock and that we enjoy our freedoms, our country, and our independence. It’s something we need to hold on to for generations to come, as generations from the past have held on for us.”
The approximate $250,000 pole and flag is being funded by Skyline, a developer that is constructing several residential buildings at the former YMCA property on Grove Street West.
Initially, Barrie taxpayers were going to be on the hook for the pole and flag, utilizing funds from the city’s reinvestment reserve.
A March 26 motion directed the city’s Facilities Development Department to retain a company to construct a flagpole up to 150 feet at the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus in time for July 1, 2025, which is Canada Day.
In April, Skyline stepped in to cover the tab, which Nuttall approved using his strong mayor powers.
“Skyline saw the conversation and wanted to be a part of it,” said the mayor at today’s flag-raising.
Nuttall says he was told it’s the largest Canadian flag that flies in the country.
Gregory Jones, President of SkyDev, a division of Skyline, says covering the cost of the pole and flag is an opportunity to be a part of the city and invest in our national identity.
The Canadian flag comes from the Flag Store in Barrie, and the flag pole was constructed at Ewing Flagpole.