Kawartha Lakes gears up for a fun-filled Canada Day weekend

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Canada Day celebrations are coming to life across the City of Kawartha Lakes, with events lined up from Coboconk to Omemee and everywhere in between. With live music, fireworks, barbecues, games, and community spirit on full display, residents and visitors alike are in for a weekend to remember.

“We’re so excited to once again bring the community together, to celebrate what makes Canada and Kawartha Lakes, such a special place to live,” said Rebecca Mustard, Manager of Economic Development for the City of Kawartha Lakes. “These events are an amazing opportunity to enjoy our local businesses, see your neighbours, and take part in something truly festive.”

The festivities begin Friday, June 27th, when the Kawartha Lakes Civitan Club hosts an evening of live music and fireworks in Coboconk, complete with free Kawartha Dairy ice cream, at the Club House. Downtown Lindsay will also be buzzing with its 2025 Summer Kickoff, from 4 to 8 p.m., where visitors can enjoy extended shopping hours, sidewalk sales, kid’s activities and live music.

The main event, of course, lands on Tuesday, July 1st, with communities across the municipality pulling out all the stops.

In Bobcaygeon, the day begins at 10:30 a.m., at Tommy Anderson Park with food and family-friendly entertainment, followed by a 2:30 p.m. parade and a fireworks show, in the beach park at dusk. “Their team has been working hard all year to make this a great day for everyone,” added Ms. Mustard. “It’s always one of the biggest and best turnouts we see in Bobcaygeon.”

Fenelon Falls is offering a full schedule, including: live music, a petting zoo, and the Rotary Club’s car draw. Events kick off at Maryboro Lodge and Garnet Graham Park, and wrap up with fireworks around 10 p.m. “This is one of the most exciting days of the year for our town,” said, Maryboro Lodge curator, Glenn Walker. “The community energy is just incredible.”

In Kinmount, celebrations begin at 5:30 p.m., at the fairgrounds, featuring wagon rides, games, and an appearance by the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party, before fireworks light up the sky. Norland and Omemee are also planning full-day events with food, music, giveaways and, of course, fireworks.

Meanwhile, Wilson Fields, in Lindsay, will host its own family-friendly evening, with activities, music and fireworks, starting at 7 p.m. “We’re thrilled to offer something for everyone,” said organizer Sarah Cooke. “It’s a great chance to celebrate Canada in the heart of Lindsay.”

As residents get ready to enjoy the long weekend, the City is reminding everyone to stay safe when using fireworks. Personal fireworks are only permitted on the day before, the day of, and the day after Canada Day, this year, without the need for a permit. That’s June 30th, July 1st, and July 2nd, as outlined in a municipal By-Law. Fireworks can only be discharged between dusk and 11 p.m., and must be set off at least 30 metres away from buildings, trees, and property lines. They must be handled by adults and used strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

While sparklers are popular with children, they burn at extremely high temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Celsius. Children should only use them under close adult supervision. For a safer alternative, consider glow sticks.

To learn more about fireworks safety or by-law regulations in Kawartha Lakes, visit the City’s Burn Bans, Permits, and By-Laws webpage. If you see someone using fireworks unsafely or notice an out-of-control fire, call 911 immediately. For non-emergency complaints related to fire or fireworks, contact Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service, at 705-324-5731.

With community pride, fireworks, and festivities on the horizon, Kawartha Lakes is ready to celebrate Canada Day in style.