Celebrate Canada Day at Riverside Park

Angela Crawford • June 28, 2025

Get ready to celebrate Canada's 158th birthday in style! After a period of uncertainty, Guelph's beloved Canada Day celebrations are officially returning to Riverside Park on July 1, 2025, promising a day filled with patriotic fun, community spirit, and spectacular fireworks.


A New Chapter for Guelph's Canada Day Traditions


This year marks an exciting transition for Guelph's Canada Day festivities. A Canada Day event is happening for 2025, hosted by Supercrawl Productions, who also own and operate the Sonic Hall venue in Guelph. This comes after the Rotary Club of Guelph, who had been longtime organizers of the city's Canada Day celebrations, stepped back from hosting duties in 2024.


Supercrawl Productions brings fresh energy to the event while maintaining the cherished traditions that make Canada Day in Guelph so special. Known for their expertise in organizing large-scale festivals and events, they're well-positioned to deliver an memorable celebration for the whole family.


What to Expect at Riverside Park


The free event starts at 3 p.m. at Riverside Park, near the baseball diamond, giving families plenty of time to enjoy a full afternoon and evening of festivities. Riverside Park has long been the heart of Guelph's Canada Day celebrations, and its spacious grounds and scenic location along the Speed River make it the perfect backdrop for our national holiday.


While specific programming details are still being finalized, past Canada Day celebrations at Riverside Park have featured an impressive array of activities that bring the community together. Based on previous years, attendees can typically look forward to live music performances, family-friendly activities, food vendors, and various entertainment options that celebrate Canadian culture and community spirit.


Fireworks Return to Light Up the Night


One of the most anticipated aspects of this year's celebration is the return of fireworks to Guelph's Canada Day festivities. Prepare for the night sky to be lit up by fireworks in Guelph once again for Canada Day. The fireworks display has been a beloved tradition that draws thousands of spectators to Riverside Park each year, creating a magical finale to the day's celebrations.


The fireworks show provides the perfect ending to a day of Canadian pride, as families gather on blankets and lawn chairs to watch the spectacular display illuminate the summer sky. The park's open spaces offer excellent viewing opportunities for everyone attending.


A Community Celebration Worth Attending


Riverside Park's Canada Day celebration represents more than just a day of fun—it's an opportunity for the Guelph community to come together and celebrate what makes Canada special. From longtime residents to new Canadians, the event welcomes everyone to participate in the festivities and connect with their neighbors.


The free admission ensures that all families can participate regardless of their financial circumstances, staying true to the inclusive spirit that defines both Canada Day and the Guelph community. This accessibility has always been a cornerstone of the city's Canada Day celebrations.


Attend with Free Transit Service


Getting to and from the Canada Day festivities just got easier! Guelph Transit is offering free service beginning at 7 p.m. on Canada Day. While the free transit service starts at 7 p.m. — after the 3 p.m. event kickoff — you'll still have plenty of time to enjoy the evening festivities and catch the spectacular fireworks display. Shuttle buses will run from Riverside Park to and from the Downtown Central Station for your convenience.


The transit service includes several options, covering most of Guelph:

Fireworks Shuttle Service: Direct shuttles between Riverside Park and Downtown Central Station make it easy to get to and from the fireworks.

Extended Route 99 Mainline: The Route 99 Mainline will provide extended service from the Guelph Central Station to the Smart Centres. They run every 10 minutes from 7:15 p.m. to 12:05 a.m.

Five Zoned Evening Routes: Starting at 7:15 p.m. from the Guelph Central Station and 7:30 p.m. at the University Centre zoned transit routes will be in operation to help you get around the city efficiently. These routes cover the entire city, ensuring residents from all neighborhoods can easily access the celebrations.


Planning Your Visit


Mark your calendars for July 1, 2025, and plan to arrive at Riverside Park by 3 p.m. to enjoy the full day of activities. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available, or you can take advantage of the free transit service starting at 7 p.m. to catch the evening events and fireworks. Consider bringing lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating during performances and the fireworks show. Don't forget to dress in your best red and white attire to show your Canadian pride!


As we approach Canada Day 2025, Guelph residents can look forward to a renewed celebration that honors both tradition and innovation. With Supercrawl Productions at the helm and the beautiful Riverside Park as our backdrop, this year's Canada Day promises to be a memorable celebration of our great nation.

By Angela Crawford June 23, 2025
Four charming campgrounds all within 25 km of Guelph offering lakeside beaches, forested retreats, scenic trails, and family-friendly amenities for your next outdoor escape.
March 21, 2025
Exploring the Best Craft Brew Pubs in Guelph: A Local’s Guide. Guelph, Ontario, is a city known for its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and, more recently, its flourishing craft beer culture. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or someone who simply enjoys a cold one with friends, Guelph’s craft brew pubs offer something for everyone. As we head into the spring season in March, the city's pubs are gearing up for new seasonal brews, exciting events, and a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy a pint or two.
March 11, 2025
St. Patrick's Day is just around the corner, and Guelph is gearing up for a lively celebration on March 17th, 2025. Whether you’re a family with kids, a music lover, or someone who enjoys a festive night out, Guelph has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of the best events and activities happening in and around Guelph this St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
March 10, 2025
March Break is here, and it's the perfect time to spend quality time with family and create lasting memories. Guelph has an abundance of activities that will keep everyone entertained, from outdoor adventures to creative workshops and fun indoor experiences. No matter the age of your kids or your family’s interests, there’s something exciting for everyone!
June 27, 2024
When buying a home in Guelph, the quality of local schools is often a critical consideration for parents. They seek neighbourhoods known for their excellent schools to provide their children with a strong educational foundation. High-performing schools not only deliver academic excellence but also foster well-rounded development. As a result, families are often willing to invest in homes within school districts renowned for their educational achievements, extracurricular programs, and diverse learning opportunities. Continue reading to discover the top 16 Public and Catholic schools in Guelph, the neighbourhoods they are in, their unique strengths, and their rankings among Ontario's best schools. GUELPH'S EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE Guelph's public and Catholic schools are distinguished by their access to top-ranked institutions, specialized programs, and a wide array of extracurricular activities that cater to various interests and talents. Here are a few notable examples: Sir Isaac Brock Public School: Renowned for its strong academic programs and supportive learning environment, this school consistently ranks among the top in Guelph. It offers numerous extracurricular activities, including sports teams, clubs, and academic competitions. St. Paul Catholic School: This school provides a nurturing, faith-based learning environment, integrating Catholic values into all aspects of education. It emphasizes academic achievement, character development, and spiritual growth, with extracurricular activities such as religious clubs, service projects, and sports teams. Aberfoyle Public School: Known for its focus on academics and student development, Aberfoyle offers a variety of educational opportunities, including specialized programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), arts, and languages. Students can also engage in extracurricular activities like music ensembles, drama productions, and community service initiatives. DIVERSE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES IN GUELPH Guelph's leading schools offer a variety of educational opportunities that enhance family life and student development: Specialized Programs: Many institutions provide tailored programs for different interests and learning preferences, including gifted education, French immersion, and unique educational methods. Extracurricular Activities: Students have access to a broad spectrum of activities, such as sports teams, clubs (e.g., robotics, debate, environmental), arts programs (e.g., music, drama, visual arts), and leadership opportunities. Community Engagement: Guelph schools emphasize the importance of community involvement, encouraging students to participate in volunteer work, service projects, and collaborations with local organizations. Learning Support: Schools offer extensive support services, including special education programs, English as a Second Language (ESL) support, and counseling, ensuring that every student receives the assistance needed for academic and emotional success. RANKING OF GUELPH SCHOOLS Below is a ranking of Guelph schools based on the 2023 Report Card on Ontario’s Elementary Schools:
April 22, 2024
Saying farewell to your home can evoke a range of emotions, from anticipation to sentimentality. Amidst the flurry of packing and moving, it's crucial not to overlook certain important tasks.
April 22, 2024
Spring is here, and if you're considering buying a home in Ontario this year, it's time to make your move. The spring season marks the busiest and most competitive time in the real estate market, and for good reason. With the arrival of warmer weather and the disappearance of snow, homes showcase their best features, attracting more potential buyers.