Everything You Need to Know Before Canada Day at Spencer Smith Park
June 24, 2026
Looking for the perfect place to celebrate Canada Day? Head to Burlington’s beautiful waterfront on Wednesday, July 1, for a full day of free family fun, live entertainment, local food, and an unforgettable drone and fireworks show over Lake Ontario. Hosted by the City of Burlington, Canada Day at Spencer Smith Park brings together residents and visitors for one of the city’s biggest celebrations of the year.
Canada Day Event Highlights
Start your day with an energetic run, enjoy family-friendly entertainment, browse local vendors, and stay for an incredible evening of live music and fireworks.
Schedule at a Glance
8:30 a.m. – Canada Day Run (pre-registration required)
9 to 11 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Burlington Lakeshore Rotary Club
11 a.m. – Free Yoga in the Park
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Family entertainment featuring Lexy the Rap Dad, SuperDogs, and more
Noon to 10 p.m. – Food trucks, local marketplace vendors, and community exhibits
4 p.m. – Official Opening Ceremony led by Burlington’s Junior Redcoats
5 to 9:30 p.m. – Live performances featuring Hayley Verrall, Ol Child, and additional local artists
Approximately 9:40 p.m. (Dusk) – Spectacular synchronized drone light show followed by fireworks over Lake Ontario.
Please note that event details and performance times are subject to change.
For the full timeline and detailed event info, visit the official City of Burlington Canada Day page.
Family Fun All Day Long
Spencer Smith Park transforms into a lively festival filled with activities for every age. Kids can enjoy interactive entertainment, exciting performances, and plenty of space to play, while adults can browse local vendors, sample delicious food, and relax along Burlington’s scenic waterfront.
Getting to the Celebration
With thousands expected to attend, planning ahead will help make your day even more enjoyable.
Ride the FREE Canada Day Shuttle
Skip the parking stress by taking the complimentary Canada Day shuttle.
Shuttles operate continuously from the south side of Burlington GO Station beginning at 12 p.m., with service running until approximately 11:30 p.m.
The shuttle drops passengers near Lakeshore Road and Brock Avenue, just steps from the festivities.
Taking Burlington Transit?
Burlington Transit will be free on Canada Day and will operate on a regular Saturday schedule.
Routes 2, 3, 4, and 10 provide convenient service to the downtown celebration. Seniors (65+), youth (13 to 19), and children 12 and under ride free with a PRESTO card. Use Google Maps, your favourite transit app or MyRide for real-time trip planning. Burlington Transit will operate on a regular Saturday schedule on Canada Day.
Parking Information
Parking downtown will be extremely limited throughout the day.
Accessible parking is available in Lot 12E at Spencer Smith Park on a first-come, first-served basis for permit holders.
A designated rideshare pickup location will also be available near 2084 Old Lakeshore Road following the evening road closures.
Whenever possible, consider walking, cycling, taking transit, or using the free shuttle to make your arrival and departure easier.
Tips for a Great Canada Day
A little preparation goes a long way.
Before you head out, remember to:
- Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket.
- Arrive early for the best viewing spots.
- Dress for the weather.
- Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Charge your phone for photos and videos.
- Be mindful of posted parking restrictions.
- Leave accessible spaces available for those who need them.
Make a Day of It in Burlington
There’s plenty to enjoy before or after the celebration. Start your morning with breakfast at a local café, explore the downtown shops, stroll the waterfront promenade, or cool off with a visit to the nearby splash pad before the festivities begin.
If you’re visiting for the first time or continuing a family tradition, Burlington’s Canada Day celebration offers a memorable way to spend the holiday together.
For more things to do in Burlington before or after Canada Day, be sure to explore the official Burlington Visitor Guide.
