Celebrating Canada Day 2025: What to Expect and How to Join In
Hey everyone, happy early Canada Day! July 1st is right around the corner, and this year marks the 158th anniversary of our amazing country. I wanted to take a few minutes to walk you through everything you need to know about what’s happening across Toronto, Ottawa, and other communities as we celebrate one of the most patriotic days of the year.
Let’s start with what’s going down in Toronto. If you're in the GTA, you’ll have plenty of ways to enjoy the festivities. There will be spectacular fireworks displays happening at Queen’s Park, Ashbridges Bay Park, and Mel Lastman Square, all kicking off around 10 PM. So bring a blanket, some snacks, and your best patriotic spirit—these shows are always a highlight of the summer.
Several major attractions will also stay open during the holiday. That includes Canada’s Wonderland and the Toronto Zoo, both of which will welcome guests for a day full of fun and celebration. But do take note: LCBO stores will be closed, although some select Beer Store locations will still be open. Most supermarkets are also taking the day off, though a few pharmacies will remain open with reduced hours. Always best to double-check with your local shop just to be safe.
As for shopping, there’s a mix of open and closed malls. Eaton Centre, Markville, Pacific Mall, and Vaughan Mills will be open if you’re planning a little holiday shopping. However, Scarborough Town Centre, Fairview Mall, and Yorkdale will be closed for the day.
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Public services will also be on pause. That includes banks, government offices, libraries, and mail delivery. Public transit will operate on holiday schedules—TTC will follow a holiday timetable, and GO Transit will run on a Saturday schedule.
Now, shifting over to Ottawa—the heart of the national celebrations. According to the city’s tourism officials, there's been a noticeable boost in domestic travel interest this year, largely due to a sense of growing national pride and a decrease in cross-border travel to the U.S. Thanks to programs like the Canada Strong Pass and increased local marketing, hotel bookings are on the rise, and officials are optimistic about a strong turnout.
LeBreton Flats will be the main celebration venue again this year. The daytime festivities kick off at noon and run until just after 1 PM, with the evening segment beginning at 8 PM and wrapping up with fireworks from 10 to 10:15 PM. Don’t forget, OC Transpo services—including buses and light rail—will be free all day. The Confederation Line (Line 1) starts running at 6 AM and goes until 2 AM the next morning. Other lines like Line 2 and 4 will also be running extended hours.
Back on Parliament Hill, you’ll find traditional favorites like the Changing of the Guard at 10 AM, military band performances in the afternoon, and the iconic Snowbirds flypast at 4 PM. Be sure to leave your car at home, as streets around Parliament Hill will be closed to traffic.
Across the city, different neighborhoods are hosting their own events—ByWard Market is throwing a four-day celebration filled with art and music. Communities like Barrhaven, Kanata, Orléans, Riverside South, and Greely are also holding local events that you can find online through their official websites.
Whether you're planning a staycation, hitting up a local fireworks show, or heading to Ottawa to be part of the national energy, Canada Day 2025 has something for everyone. So grab your red and white gear, plan ahead for closures, and most importantly, celebrate safely and proudly. Happy Canada Day, everyone!
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