Canada Day on the Waterfront

It is important to reflect and understand that Canada Day means something different to everybody. For many Indigenous Peoples, Canada Day is not a time of celebration, but a reminder of our country's colonial past and ongoing challenges. The effects of the loss of traditional lands and of over a century of systemic racism and mistreatment are still prevalent and felt by Indigenous Peoples today.

The City of Thunder Bay has been built on the traditional lands of the Ojibwa peoples of Fort William First Nation, original signatories to the Robinson Superior Treaty signed in 1850, and we recognize the significant contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples to our heritage, social, cultural, spiritual and economic wealth.

Canada Day - July 1, 2023 - Walk together. Learn together. Grow together.

Prince Arthur's Landing, Marina Park

Since early 2021, there has been an ongoing re-envisioning of Canada Day on the Waterfront to reflect and recognize that Canada Day means something different to everyone, and to move forward in an inclusive, thoughtful, and meaningful way towards Reconciliation. Please join us for this event and an opportunity for us to come together as a community

Canada Day Schedule

This event runs from 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm and has a variety of activities to check out throughout the park!

Main Stage - Presented by Ontario Power Generation

3:00 pm - Orville Councillor

4:00 pm - Miranda Currie

5:00 pm - Opening Ceremony

6:00 pm - The JB Band

7:00 pm - Tennyson King

Tennyson King is a nomadic indie folk musician who seamlessly weaves together his Chinese-Canadian heritage, and by fusing these diverse elements, he creates a unique and captivating musical experience that transcends cultural boundaries.

In recognition of his exceptional talent, Tennyson was honoured with the prestigious Songwriter of the Year award at the 2022 Mississauga Music Awards. Furthermore, Tennyson's remarkable talent has earned him a nomination for the 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards, a testament to his impact and growing influence within the folk music scene.

Musician Tennyson King playing the guitar and singing on stage

8:00 pm - Tim Albertson

Tim Albertson is a talented Canadian country singer who infuses a pop twist into his rock-infused sound. Hailing from Dorion, Ontario, Tim attributes his deep connection to country music to his upbringing in his hometown. His musical journey began with a passion for singing, which was further fueled by the passing of his beloved grandmother, inspiring him to pursue his musical aspirations.

With his captivating music, Tim Albertson is poised to make his mark on the country music scene. Don't miss the opportunity to catch him this Canada Day!

Musician Tim Albertson standing on stage with a microphone

Second Stage

3:00 pm - Thunder Bay World Dance Collective
3:30 pm - Thunder Bay Chinese Music and Dance Troupe
4:15 pm - Thai Healing Centre Dance Troupe
4:45 pm - BREAK for opening ceremonies on Main Stage
6:00 pm - World Cultural Dance
6:40 pm - Italian Touch Latin Dance
7:15 pm - Arabella Middle Eastern Dance Academy
8:00 pm - Cambrian Players Improv Troupe

Park Wide Programming

Festival Area
- Food vendors
- Artisans
- CKPR Summer of Fun Crew
- Bubble station
- Outdoor games
- Information & First Aid
- Portable washrooms
Tai Chi Park / Green Space
- Sunrise Ceremony
- Sacred fire
- NAN Display
- Tipi
Skate Park
- Cinema 5 Skate Park - lessons and equipment borrowing for youth
Splash Pad & Water Garden Pavilion
- Splash Pad party
- Thunder Bay Clown Club - face painting & balloon animals
- Indoor washrooms
- Water bottle filling station
Baggage Building Arts Centre
- Information & First Aid
- Crafts with CAHEP on the patio (access up the ramp)
- Cookie painting with SonShine Sweets in the Gallery area (access through patio) *available until supplies run out
Green Lawn Area
- Healthy Kids
- Youth Move
- Canadian Army
- Let's Talk Science - Confederation College

Accessible Parking Requests

There is limited general public parking in Marina Park on July 1.
Accessible parking for those with a valid Accessible Parking Permit is available within the park. Reservations must be made in advance by calling 807-684-3844. Reservations will open Monday, June 26th at 9:00 am and be open until Thursday, June 29 at 3:00 pm or until all spaces are reserved previous to that time.

Parking Information

Free parking is available on July 1 in the Waterfront Parkade.

Important Information

No personal fireworks, alcohol, smoking or vaping is permitted at the event.

All Canadians are encouraged to take time to educate themselves, listen to truth, and reflect on how they can contribute to reconciliation, strengthen relations and make our country a more inclusive, safe, and welcoming space for everyone.

Please visit our Indigenous Relations page to learn more about the City of Thunder Bay's Anishinaabe Elders Advisory Council, our Indigenous Relations and Inclusion Strategy, relationship agreements between the City and partners, and response to the Seven Youth Inquest. Explore supports and services for Indigenous residents, local cultural events and recognition programs, Indigenous spaces found within the City, cultural education and inclusion opportunities, and additional Indigenous resources.

Volunteer Opportunities

Join the Volunteer team!

For more information, please contact the Volunteer Program Coordinator at volunteer@thunderbay.ca