Across the country, people are getting ready for the Victoria Day long weekend.
The May Two-Four holiday traditionally honours Queen Victoria and falls on the final Monday before her birthday.
Today, it’s a weekend full of outdoor festivities, with many opting to visit patios, open their cottages for the first time of the season, and, perhaps most importantly, watch a fireworks display later in the evening.
Across the Hamilton, Halton, and Niagara Region there will be free pyrotechnic displays for the public to enjoy.
Whether you plan on buying your own or are looking for more information on where to watch, CHCH News has all the information you need.
Where to watch fireworks displays near you
Hamilton
In Hamilton, the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley will hold a free fireworks display at the Dundas Driving Park on Sunday evening.
The event will begin at 4 p.m. and feature an artisan market, live music and food trucks.
The park itself will be closed to vehicular traffic starting at 7 a.m. Free parking will be offered onsite, although it will be limited. The public is encouraged to visit one of the many nearby municipal lots with free parking.
For more information, click here.
Halton Region
In Milton, the Woodbine Mohawk Park will host a night of live horse racing, food and drinks, with a fireworks display kicking off at 10 p.m.
Doors open at 5 p.m., and admission is free.
Niagara Region
Niagara Falls will host a fireworks show every night of the weekend, starting on Friday.
Each show begins at 10 p.m. Victoria Day marks the return of the nightly firework display that will run throughout the summer and into part of the Fall.
Thinking of having your own firework show?
If you’re planning on purchasing your own fireworks, it’s important that you follow your local bylaws and stay safe.
In Hamilton and Halton, fireworks can only be set off between dusk and 11 p.m.
The earliest time that they can be lit in Niagara Falls is 6 p.m. and no later than 11 p.m.
A fire extinguisher isn’t just a recommendation, in Niagara Falls its a legal requirement.
The City of Hamilton says fireworks should only be purchased, handled, and discharged by an adult 18 years of age or older — and only one should be appointed to do so.
A clear, open space that’s away from buildings and combustible materials should be cordoned off. It may not be a public roadway.
Fireworks should be lit one at a time, and never held in your hand.
In the event that someone is burned, the city says you should run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes. If necessary, seek medical attention.
For a full list of safety tips, click here.