Amherstburg marks Canada’s 159th birthday

Canada Day fireworks were held over the Detroit River.

Canada Day fireworks were held over the Detroit River.

Patriotism was on full display in Amherstburg on Canada Day.

A full day of activity occurred in the town’s downtown core to celebrate the country’s 159^th birthday, starting with the Canada Day 5K Run, Walk and Wheel and ending with the fireworks over the Detroit River.

In between, Toddy Jones Park was busy during the day with children getting a closer look at town-owned vehicles, getting an extra douse or two of water in the splash pad thanks to the Amherstburg Fire Department, field hockey games with the Amherstburg Admirals, dancing by the Rivertown Dance Academy, cupcakes, facepainting, food trucks and more.

A musket firing demonstration was held as part of events at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada on Canada Day.

Later in the day, the opening ceremonies were held in King’s Navy Yard Park with the Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 colour guard leading in members of Amherstburg town council.

Mayor Michael Prue welcomed the crowd and thanked everyone for being there. He pointed out Heritage Canada for helping to fund the activities, sponsors including James H. Sutton Funeral Home and J&J Marine, the latter supplying the barge from where the fireworks were launched from. He added the town’s gratitude for all who supported the Canada Day festivities in Amherstburg.

The Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 colour guard leads members of Amherstburg town council to the stage in King's Navy Yard Park as part of opening ceremonies during Canada Day festivities July 1, 2026.

The barge was parked in front of King’s Navy Yard Park, with the public encouraged to go to the park as the prime place to view the fireworks from.

Town departments such as parks and facilities, infrastructure services, tourism and fire were also recognized.

Bethany D'Alimonte and her band perform in King's Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg July 1, 2026.

“Thank you for making Amherstburg the best place – the best place to celebrate Canada, the best place to showcase your pride in the country and the best place to live and work,” said Prue.

The mayor added while “we live in troubled times,” Canada will always fight through them.

The Adam Butcher Band performs as part of Canada Day festivities in King's Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg July 1, 2026.

“We will survive and be stronger than ever,” said Prue. “We’re here because we are so proud of the town and the people who live in it.

Bethany D’Alimonte, Adam Butcher and their respective bands provided the entertainment in the park, with the fireworks starting promptly at 10 p.m.

By Ron Giofu