Get ready for an exciting time as the Civic Holiday long weekend approaches, spanning from August 2nd to August 5th. Now is the time to set your plans in motion and make the most of this fantastic opportunity for a memorable getaway with your loved ones. If you’ve been postponing your travel plans, this is the perfect chance to take a well-deserved break and create wonderful memories with family and friends.
Civic Holiday: Monday, August 5th 2024
Look no further than Clifton Hill for the ultimate destination during the Civic Holiday long weekend. This vibrant location offers everything you could desire for a fun-filled getaway conveniently clustered together on the Hill. Imagine enjoying delicious food, engaging in exciting activities, and savoring breathtaking scenic views, all while surrounded by the people who matter most to you. It’s an experience you wouldn’t want to miss!
What is the Civic Holiday?
The Civic Holiday is an annual celebration observed on the first Monday of August throughout Canada. However, it goes by various names in different provinces and territories. In Ontario, this holiday was established to pay tribute to John Graves Simcoe, who played a significant role in the establishment of modern Toronto. Additionally, it serves as an opportunity to celebrate the rich and diverse Canadian culture. Interestingly, each province and territory has embraced this holiday for its own unique reasons to celebrate.
Niagara Falls Parking
You will find plenty of parking over the Civic Holiday weekend at this lot pictured in the map below. It’s only a 5 minute walk down Clifton Hill to the fireworks and illumination show. It’s a short walk to the Fallsview Casino and their adjoining restaurants. Queen Victoria Park offers amazing scenic views of the Falls, access the Niagara City Cruises, and the Zipline to the Falls attraction!
Making the Most of the Weekend
Niagara SkyWheel: OPEN DAILY 10:00am-2:00am!
Soar 175-feet above Niagara Falls for the view of a lifetime! The Niagara SkyWheel gives riders a breathtaking panoramic view of this spectacular natural wonder from the vantage of climate controlled gondolas. Soak in the awe-inspiring scene year-round, day and night, in total comfort. Get tickets for the Niagara SkyWheel
Niagara Speedway: OPEN Mon-Thu 10:00am-1:00am & Fri-Sun 10:00am-1:30am!
A Clifton Hill hit that is not to be missed is the Niagara Speedway which combines traditional go-karts with the added fun and excitement of an elevated coaster styled track. Our most talked about attraction, with a track that spans 2000 feet and climbs up a 4-story spiral before you head down the ramp.
Movieland Wax Museum: OPEN DAILY 10am-2am!
Check out Niagara Falls’ top wax museum and be amazed by our life-like wax sculptures of characters from classic films like Aliens and the Terminator…to current hits like Black Widow and the Ironman! Snap a selfie next to your favourite stars and celebrities this weekend!
Take a picture with the all new Chris Hemsworth wax figure as Thor Odinson the Asgardian God of Thunder, Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff in Black Widow, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in Jumanji, Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean, Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, plus many more!
Click here for more details on Movieland Wax Museum
Carnival Chaos: OPEN DAILY 10am-2am!
You’ll need to bring your ‘A” game to challenge the carnies coming at you from all sides as you get deeper and deeper inside this demonic world. You’ll be whisked onto many dangerous amusement rides starting with a rickety roller coaster that crashes through the roof of a sinister workshop, then get spun out of control on the Wheel of Misfortune and the scary swing ride, then bang around in bumper cars until you are finally led to the bizarre Big Top show.
The freaks are as relentless as they are terrifying stirring up chaos throughout the journey. Every rider is armed with a laser gun to protect themselves, but working together greatly improves your chances of survival. You can also compete for the highest score by hitting as many targets as possible. This fully immersive experience is a first of its kind dark ride like no other!
Click here for more details on Carnival Chaos
Niagara Parks Power Station: Open Daily 10am-6pm
The Niagara Parks Power Station recently opened the Tunnel at the beginning of the month. Be amongst the first few visitors to explore the new underground tunnel experience at the first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River with immersive exhibits, restored artifacts and interactive storytelling. And at night, feel the once-dormant power station come to life in a breathtaking interactive experience you’ll never forget.
The Tunnel: Descend 180 feet beneath the halls of the Niagara Parks Power Station with the all-new tunnel experience, included with regular admission. Find out how this remarkable 2,200-foot-long tunnel was excavated with only lanterns, rudimentary dynamite, pickaxes and shovels. Then, step out onto a new observation deck at the river’s edge.
For 100 years, the “Canadian Niagara Power Company generating station” harnessed the powerful energy of the Horseshoe Falls and turned it into a great source of electricity. Now, years after its turbines came to a halt, the wonder of this hydropower pioneer is coming back to life in an entertaining and educational experience that highlights both the remarkable history and unique architectural features of this 115-year-old engineering marvel.
Niagara Falls Restaurants
To keep you fueled and ready for action we have two family friendly restaurants that feature a broad selection of menu items. Both Boston Pizza and Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse are the perfect way to take a break from the action while still being able to see the action from a distance that to the outdoor patio dining options.
Daily 11am-2am
“I had such an amazing experience here, the food was excellent and the service was impeccable. Kelly V helped us and she was so kind and really took the time to be attentive with us while she was also very busy. I’ll be back here again for sure!” – Alexa Mcfadyen
Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat & Sun 10:30am-2am
“I came here for lunch after a visit to the falls and it was perfect. I ordered the chicken ceasar wrap with kettle chips but there were lots of options on the menu. The food was good! Our server, Courtney, was exceptional. I really appreciate her energy and helpfulness. She made our experience a 10/10. Thank you!” -Laura Schmitz
Events for the Civic Holiday Weekend!
Below is a listing of all the top events for Civic Holiday Weekend in the Falls and the Niagara Region.
Niagara Falls Illumination
Every evening beginning at dusk the Falls are lit in the colours of the rainbow – don’t miss the unmatched beauty of the Falls at night!
Schedule:
August 1 to 15th: from 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Greg Frewin Theatre Presents Evolution!
Prepare to be dazzled by “Evolution,” a spellbinding show that combines rare and amazing magic, exotic birds, and state-of-the-art illusions to create an unforgettable experience. This captivating spectacle will ignite your imagination and leave you amazed beyond belief.
“Go see this show, it’s incredible!! This may be the best magic show we’ve ever been to see, and we’ve been to quite a few! Both Greg and Alexandra are so very talented and you can tell they really enjoy what they do. The hosts and servers are also super friendly and attentive. We did not come for the buffet prior to the show but there is a food menu you can order from if you come for the show only. We had a veggie/hummus/pita plate that was very good and popcorn. They also have special kids drinks that can be ordered and a full bar. There really didn’t seem to be a bad seat in the house but we did sit in section 1 and it was nice to be up close. Definitely recommend.” -Melissa Dillon *****
“This was the most amazing experience! Went with my whole family ages 7 through 83 and all loved it! It’s great, wholesome fun and we will remember this as one of the best parts of our trip forever! Other than the show, they had a wide variety of food and snacks, friendly service, and a cute little merch shop that you should definitely stop at! They also support the SPCA so it’s great supporting. Absolutely highly recommend to all as a must do for great and memorable family fun!” -Sar & Dar *****
Experience the Enchantment of ‘Evolution’ at the Greg Frewin Theatre!
August 2nd, 3rd and August 5th
6:00 PM: EVOLUTION MAGIC (Dinner)
7:30 PM: EVOLUTION MAGIC (Show)
Niagara Fiesta Extravaganza 2024
At Fireman’s Park: 2275 Dorchester Road. Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Step into the world of the Niagara Fiesta Extravaganza, a yearly summer celebration dedicated to honoring the vibrant Filipino heritage in the Niagara Region of Ontario and across Canada. Our primary mission is to promote multi-cultural awareness and appreciation of Philippine heritage, while also acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the Filipino community to Canada’s social and economic fabric.
This lively festival promises a diverse array of thrilling activities and attractions for all attendees. Delight in a spectacular musical extravaganza, continuous entertainment, enthralling cultural heritage presentations, traditional Filipino games, sports, a delectable food expo, diverse vendors and exhibits, and shining spotlights on community achievements, among many other engaging experiences.
Dates: August 3rd – 4th, 2024
Click here for details of the Fiesta Extravaganza
Niagara Falls’ Top Hotels
Exciting news for those planning an overnight trip during the Civic Holiday weekend! Niagara Falls offers a plethora of fantastic options for a perfect getaway. If you’re visiting from out of town, the key to having an unforgettable weekend is to stay for a night or two, allowing you to fully indulge in all the wonders the city has to offer. Opting for one of our highly recommended nearby hotels guarantees you’ll be right in the heart of all the action and excitement.
Shopping in Niagara
- Canada Trading on Clifton Hill
- Fudge Factory on Clifton Hill
- Canada One in Niagara Falls
- SmartCentres in Niagara Falls, Welland and St Catharines
- Outlet Collection at Niagara in Niagara-on-the-Lake
- The Pen Centre in St Catharines
- Fairview Mall in St Catharines
- Briarfield Shopping Centre in St Catharines
- Pendale Plaza in St Catharines
- Seaway Mall in Welland
Beer and Liquor Stores
- Beer Store
- Most of Niagara’s Beer Stores will be open
- Civic Holiday (Monday, August 5th) 10am-6pm
- Friday 10am-8pm
- Saturday 10am-6pm
- Sunday 12pm-5pm
Driving Route Alternatives
Visiting today for the Civic Holiday? Here are a few driving options to consider while getting in and out of the Falls. Have a safe and happy holiday today!
Civic Holiday Contest…Coming Soon!
Details coming soon!