Discover cost-free attractions in Niagara Falls for a budget-friendly and enjoyable summer. We understand the importance of finding affordable options, whether you’re exploring with family or embarking on a solo adventure. With admission costs on the rise during peak tourist seasons, we’ve compiled a list of free activities to help you slash expenses.
Satisfy your desire for complimentary experiences as we unveil a variety of attractions in Niagara Falls that won’t cost you a penny. Embrace the city’s natural beauty and historical significance without breaking the bank. We’ve gathered recommendations from locals, ensuring you access the best free spots that the Falls has to offer.
Here’s our comprehensive list of free things to do in Niagara Falls. Keep the savings coming as we continue to share more affordable eateries and entertainment in our upcoming blogs.
Fireworks in Queen Victoria Park
When: Daily until October 9th, 2023
Join us for an unforgettable experience at the 2023 Falls Fireworks Series in Niagara Falls. Prepare to be mesmerized by jaw-dropping fireworks displays set against the iconic American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. For years, Niagara Parks’ Falls Fireworks Series has amazed visitors with over 100 spectacular displays annually.
The fireworks can be enjoyed from various vantage points, including Clifton Hill, Queen Victoria Park and the Top of the Falls, every day from now until October 9th, starting at 10 pm. Please note that all displays are subject to weather conditions.
Fiesta Extravaganza Niagara
When: August 5 & 6, 2023 at Firemens Park
Experience the NIAGARA FIESTA EXTRAVAGANZA, a lively summer festival that promises a blend of music, cultural performances, delectable cuisine, games, and a captivating display of cars and bikes. Mark your calendar for August 5 & 6, 2023, as the festivities unfold at the picturesque Firemen’s Park, 2275 Dorchester Rd, Niagara Falls, ON.
Embrace the spirit of unity and diversity as the Niagara Fiesta becomes the inaugural Filipino summer festival in the Niagara Region. Thousands of participants from Niagara and neighboring cities gather to celebrate and support the flourishing Filipino Canadian community in the area. This event is open to all, regardless of cultural background, extending a warm welcome to everyone.
In addition to the nonstop entertainment, interactive booths, and engaging games, the Niagara Fiesta Extravaganza joins forces with the Bumper to Bumper Carshow – Niagara Falls, treating car enthusiasts to an impressive showcase of modified cars that leave onlookers in awe. Furthermore, an awarding ceremony and oath-taking for dual citizens add an extra layer of significance to the festivities.
Don’t miss the chance to partake in this unforgettable celebration of culture, friendship, and joy. Join us at the NIAGARA FIESTA EXTRAVAGANZA and immerse yourself in a world of genuine smiles, delightful performances, and the camaraderie of a diverse community coming together in the heart of Niagara Falls.
Port Colborne Canal Days
When: August 4th to 7th, 2023
Join us for the 45th Annual Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival in 2023, where family-friendly activities and attractions await. Celebrate the history and heritage along the Welland Canal every Civic Holiday weekend with a four-day extravaganza.
The festival embraces the entire community, with various locations hosting exciting events. At the Vale Health & Wellness Centre, witness Ontario’s largest outdoor Classic Car Show and an indoor Craft Show. Seaway Park offers a kids’ zone filled with games, entertainment, and activities. Discover the history of the Welland Canal at the Port Colborne Historical & Marine Museum, where heritage artisans showcase their crafts. Stroll along Historic West Street, home to local businesses, festival food, shopping kiosks, the Empire Sandy Tall Ship, other vessels, and a recreation zone. The H.H. Knoll Lakeview Park hosts the Canal Days Concert series, featuring top-notch entertainment nightly.
Experience Port Colborne’s warm hospitality and rich nautical history at the junction of the Welland Canal and Lake Erie north shore. As a working marine community, the city takes pride in this picturesque town’s growth and prosperity, inviting over 300,000 visitors annually to share in the festivities.
Don’t miss out on the excitement! Join us at Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival and create unforgettable memories with your family. Check out the thrilling moments captured from past celebrations!
Niagara Falls Illumination
When: See Charts Below
| AUGUST 1 – AUGUST 15 | 8:00 PM – 2 AM | ||||||
| AUGUST 16 – AUGUST 31 | 7:30 PM – 2 AM | ||||||
| SEPTEMBER 1 – 19 | 7:00 PM – 2 AM | ||||||
| SEPTEMBER 20 – 30 | 6:30 PM – 2 AM | ||||||
Special Illumination Schedule:
| August 1, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Light-Up Amber for Appendix Cancer Awareness Month | Yellow, Orange |
| August 3, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Wounded Warriors Canada Ride for Mental Health | Red, Blue, White |
| August 5, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Food Day Canada | Red, White |
| August 6, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Bolivia Independence Day | Red, Yellow, Green |
| August 7, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | World PVNH Disorder Awareness Day – 12th edition | Pink, Yellow, Pink, Yellow |
| August 10, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Ecuador Independence Day | Yellow, Blue, Red |
| August 12, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | India’s Independence Day | Orange, White, Green |
| August 15, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Korean Independence Day | Red, Blue |
| August 16, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | 78th Indonesia Independence Day | Red, White |
| August 18, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Restoration Day – Dominican Republic | Red, White, Blue |
| August 19, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Restoration Day – Dominican Republic | Red, White, Blue |
| August 23, 2023 | 9:45 – 10:10 | Ukraine’s Independence Day | Blue, Yellow |
| August 23, 2023 | 10:45 – 11:00 | Ukraine’s Independence Day | Blue, Yellow |
| August 24, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Niagara Irish Festival | Green, Orange |
| August 31, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Independence of Uzbekistan | Blue, White, Green |
| August 31, 2023 | 10:45 – 11:00 | International Overdose Awareness Day | Purple |
| September 1, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | National Day of the Slovak Republic | White, Blue, Red |
| September 1, 2023 | 10:15 – 10:30 | Dystonia Awareness Month | Blue, White |
| September 2, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Prostate Cancer Awareness Month | Blue |
| September 2, 2023 | 10:15 – 10:30 | Shine Gold for the Kids | Yellow |
| September 4, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | PKD Awareness Day | Teal, Orange |
| September 7, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Brazil’s Independence Day | Green, Yellow, Blue |
| September 7, 2023 | 10:15 – 10:30 | World Duchenne Awareness Day | Red |
| September 8, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Independence Day of the Republic of Tajikstan | Red, White, Green |
| September 9, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Viva Mexico at the Niagara Falls | Green, White, Red |
| September 10, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Light up for Living Donation Week | Green |
| September 11, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Childhood Cancer Awareness Month | Yellow |
| September 13, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | World Sepsis Day | Pink |
| September 15, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Costa Rica Independence | Blue, White, Red |
| September 15, 2023 | 10:15 – 10:30 | Blood Cancer Awareness Month – Light it Red for Lymphoma | Red |
| September 15, 2023 | 10:30 – 10:45 | Independence Day of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras | Blue, White |
| September 15, 2023 | 10:45 – 11:00 | Craniofacial Acceptance Month | Red, Yellow, Blue |
| September 16, 2023 | 10:00 – 10:15 | Chiari Awareness Month | Purple |
Niagara Falls History Museum Free Events
The Niagara Falls History Museum located at 5810 Ferry Street is the place to go to learn everything historical about Niagara Falls. Step inside and you will be met with three galleries; all of which have a story to tell about Niagara Falls.
Date Night at the Museum
August 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st; September 7th, 14th & 21st
Experience a romantic evening at the Niagara Falls History Museum with ‘Date Night @ The Museum.’
Every Thursday from 5-9 p.m., enjoy FREE admission as you and your partner explore the Museum’s artifacts and exhibits.
Elevate your experience with local craft beer and wine available for purchase.
Date Night @ The Museum information
Community Art Project
August 3rd, 17th & 31st; September 14th at 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Join the annual Community Art Project at the Niagara Falls History Museum this summer, led by local artist Rachelle Wunderink. Residents of Niagara Falls are invited to take part in free community art workshops in July, August, and September. Titled ‘It Takes a Village,’ the project will create an amorphous city comprised of individually collaged houses, displayed throughout the museum entrance for the Niagara Falls Night of Art on September 21.
Inspired by the challenges faced during the pandemic, this art installation reflects the resilience and strength of our community. Participants can collage their own house, choosing images that bring comfort or hold special memories. Don’t miss this amazing chance to connect with others and collaborate on this inspiring art installation!
Trivia Night – 90’s Edition:
August 25, 2023; 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Righteous! You asked for it and we’re coming at you with another Trivia Night – 90’s Edition, hosted by trivia master Lee Beaupre of Niagara’s Name that Tune!
Throw on some fly 90’s threads, get your team together, groups of 2-6, and come on down to the museum for a night of musical trivia, drinks and prizes.
Trivia Night – 90’s Edition information
Niagara Falls Night of Art
September 21, 2023; 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The City of Niagara Falls is excited to announce that the 12th annual Niagara Falls Night of Art is set for Thursday, September 21 at The Exchange.
Expect a fun night of art, live music, video, art installations, fabulous artisanal work, improv, delicious food and lots of laughs located in and around the Niagara Falls History Museum.
Stay tuned for more details this summer!
Niagara Falls Night of Art information
Niagara on the Lake Annual Peach Festival
When: August 12th from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Join us at the Peach Festival on Saturday, August 12th, 2023, from 10 am to 6 pm, on Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, for an exciting celebration of all things PEACH!
Discover a variety of mouthwatering treats, sweet and savory, infused with our homegrown peaches from Niagara-on-the-Lake’s talented food vendors and merchants.
Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the afternoon, making it a memorable experience for all.
Don’t miss the highlight of the event, the traditional peach pie contest, where the best peach pie in Niagara will be crowned!
Extend your stay and explore the rich history and natural beauty of Niagara on the Lake’s charming town. There’s much to do, from attending the Shades of Rosé Dinner on Sunday, August 13th, to experiencing plays at the Shaw Festivals, visiting wineries, and exploring the Shopping on Queen Street historic district.
Get ready for a delightful day full of fun and delectable peach delights at the Peach Festival. Don’t forget to check our website for more information on attractions and accommodations.
Mark your calendar and immerse yourself in the celebration of peaches and everything Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer. Join us at the Peach Festival for a weekend you won’t forget!
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE
- 10:00 am-10:15 am – Fife & Drum Band
- 11:00 am-3:00 pm – The Steel Band
- 11:00 am-3:00 pm – The Toronto-All Star Big Band
- 3:00 pm-6:00 pm – Soul Jam
Siege of Fort Erie Reenactment
When: August 12th (10am-9pm) and August 13th (10am-5pm), 2023
Witness history come to life at Old Fort Erie during the Annual Siege of Fort Erie Reenactment on August 12th to August 13th, 2023.
Step back in time to the War of 1812 as soldiers clash and cannons roar. Experience the intensity of Canada’s bloodiest battlefield as hundreds of reenactors demonstrate life at the fort.
Don’t miss the thrilling full battle reenactment on both Saturday and Sunday!
Admission to all camp and battle reenactments is free, starting at 10 a.m. at the Welcome Centre. Separate admission applies to Old Fort Erie and the Saturday Night Lantern Tour. Free parking is available in front of the Welcome Centre.
No registration is required for this exciting event. However, reenactment participants must register separately.
Discover Niagara’s captivating history as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a fort under siege. Daily tours and musket demonstrations add to the experience, making Old Fort Erie a must-visit War of 1812 National Historic Site.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the past and learn about Niagara’s pivotal role in the War of 1812. Experience the captivating history and excitement of the Annual Siege of Fort Erie Reenactment at Old Fort Erie.
Event Highlights
Saturday, August 12
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Fort Open, hourly guided tours until 4 p.m. (except during battles)
- 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. – Welcome Centre Open
- 11 a.m. a skirmish for Major Buck’s Surrender of the fort
- 2 p.m. Battle reenactment in commemoration of Chippawa and Lundy’s Lane
- 3 p.m. Mini Militia where kids can learn to be a soldier.
- 8 p.m. Night Assault Battle
- 9 p.m. Candlelight Tours (Separate Admission Ticket Required)
Sunday, August 13
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Fort & Welcome Centre Open, hourly guided tours until 4 p.m. (except during battles)
- 1 p.m. Battle reenactment of the Sortie
- 2 p.m. Mini Militia where kids can learn to be a soldier
All battles are free to the public and take place in the South Field behind the fort.
Additional Free Things to Do This Summer
- Go to the Horseshoe Falls point of view
- Hike at the Niagara Glen nature reserve
- Stroll through the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
- Wander around Clifton Hill’s Street of Fun by the Falls
- Explore the Dufferin Islands Trails at the top of the Falls
- Cycle the Niagara Parkway
- Visit the Floral Clock on a Scenic Drive Down the Niagara Parkway
- Chill at the Oakes Garden Theatre
- Hike the Heartland Forest Trails
- Peruse the Daredevil Alley Downtown Niagara Falls
- Take in the View at Queenston Heights Park
- Navigate the Queen Victoria Park pathways by the Falls
- Cruising On The Q car show on Queen Street Niagara Falls every Tuesday starting at 5pm