If you’re looking to celebrate Canada Day long weekend away from Toronto, consider visiting Barrie. At only an hour away from Hogtown, it’s the perfect place to getaway for a day and enjoy some Canada-themed events.
Barrie Air Show
When: June 28 – 6 p.m., June 29 – 1 p.m.
Where: Kempenfelt Bay
Two spectacular shows will take place over Kempenfelt Bay featuring the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the CF-18 Demo Team.
Meanwhile, Barrie’s Five Points Theatre will be the place to escape the heat and catch some aircraft-themed events.
Canada Day concert series and family fun zone
When: July 1 – 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Meridian Place and Heritage Park
On July 1, don your red and white and grab a slice of Canada Day cake at Meridian Place, the centre of all action in Barrie. Stay for family-friendly games and great programming.
This year, two country artists will help celebrate Canada’s 152nd birthday — Kalsey Kulyk and Aaron Goodvin.
At Heritage Park, Tim Horton’s presents a free Family Fun Zone — an outdoor space complete with face painting, music, wildlife displays and more.
Fireworks
When: July 1 – 10 p.m.
Where: Kempenfelt Bay, Heritage Park and Allandale Station Park.
Canada Day wouldn’t be complete without fireworks. On July 1 at 10 p.m., lay out a blanket, set up lawn chairs around Kempenfelt Bay and look up at the area’s annual fireworks display.
Other places to catch the show include Heritage Park and Allandale Station Park.
Promenade Days
When: June 29 – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., June 30 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., July 1 – 11 a.m. to 10p.m.
Where: Dunlop Street and Meridian Place
“This is downtown Barrie’s street festival,” says Donnelly. The festival, which begins June 28 and runs until July 1, has a little something for everyone.
Start out with beer and nachos on one of the city’s many downtown patios or sample a selection of food-truck bites. There are also some shows to catch — from live bands to dance troupes. See the full schedule here.
NOTE: Dunlop Street is closed to vehicle traffic during the festival.
If you truly want to make a weekend of your Canada Day festivities, Donnelly suggests spending the weekend in Barrie.
“Barrie really has it all this Canada Day weekend,” she says. “Enjoy the incredible air show, live musical performances, great food and downtown festivities then take some time to relax and explore Barrie’s beautiful beaches, parks and trails. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”