Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to welcome the season than by celebrating Victoria Day? After months of waiting for warmer weather, it’s time to make the most of it by enjoying some fantastic outdoor activities. Whether you want to dine on a patio with a view, explore the stunning scenery of Niagara, or immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, there are plenty of options to choose from. And, of course, no Victoria Day celebration would be complete without an amazing fireworks display!
If you’re looking for the perfect destination to celebrate this long weekend with your loved ones, look no further than Niagara Falls. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic escape with your significant other, or a weekend getaway with friends, Niagara Falls has something for everyone.
Make sure you don’t miss out on the very first fireworks display of the season at Queen Victoria Park on Friday, May 19, 2023 at 10pm! It’s the perfect way to end a day full of fun and excitement. So, come join us and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls in all its glory this Victoria Day weekend.
Discover an extraordinary holiday weekend brimming with non-stop entertainment options at Clifton Hill’s World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls! As Canada’s premier tourism and family entertainment destination, we offer a one-of-a-kind experience that promises to leave lasting memories.
Explore a diverse array of exciting activities, attractions, and dining options, all conveniently located in one place. From heart-pumping rides and games to unique museums and exhibits, Clifton Hill caters to all tastes and ages. Our tantalizing dining options offer a mouth-watering selection that caters to every palate.
Niagara’s Top Attractions All Within A Block of the Falls!
Enjoy all your favorite attractions this Victoria Day long weekend on Clifton Hill! With the Fun Pass, you can experience the Niagara Skywheel, Zombie Attack, and outdoor mini-golf at Dinosaur Adventure Golf. And, with the entire Niagara Region filled with endless options for fun and games, we’ve curated a list of our top recommendations so that you can focus on having fun instead of planning.
If that wasn’t enough, the entire Niagara Region is bursting with even more options for fun and games making choosing what to do quite the feat! We’ve created this list of our top recommendations so that you can focus more on enjoying yourself and less on planning.
Victoria Day Facts and Information
Victoria Day is a Canadian Public Holiday that takes place annually on the last Monday of May. The holiday exists to honour Queen Victoria’s birthday who was the reigning Queen when Canada became its own country in 1867, but the holiday has been around and celebrated even before Canada was officially a country! Canada continues to celebrate it in various ways across the land, on a specific Monday in May. In Quebec, the same day was, since the Quiet Revolution, unofficially known as Fête de Dollard until 2003, when provincial legislation officially named the same date as Victoria Day the National Patriots’ Day. Additionally, it’s a statutory holiday for six of Canada’s ten provinces and three of its territories.
Not only is it celebrated here in Canada, but also in Scotland. For many of us Canadian’s, Victoria Day means that the summer season is just around the corner which is cause for great celebration… winter in Canada is no joke! When the Queen died in 1901, the parliament declared that her legacy is celebrated at the end of May.
Victoria Day Weekend Events in Niagara
Niagara Falls Fireworks
Canada’s popular annual fireworks series begins May 19, 2023 and runs to October 9th, 2023!
QUICK FACTS
- Dates and Times: Friday, May 19 – Monday, October 9, 2023 at 10:00 pm each night,
(5) minutes duration - Best Views: The fireworks displays can be enjoyed from multiple vantage points across the city of Niagara Falls. These include outdoor spaces in Niagara Parks, high above at the Skylon Tower and Niagara SkyWheel, aboard the Falls Fireworks Cruise with Niagara City Cruises, and indoors at the many hotels and restaurants with views of the Falls.
- Cost: There is no charge to view the fireworks
Niagara Falls Fireworks
Get ready for an unforgettable experience this summer, as the 2023 Niagara Falls Summer Fireworks series is set to commence on Friday, May 19th, just in time for the Victoria Day long weekend. This breathtaking display of pyrotechnics will continue to light up the sky every night at 10:00pm, right through to the grand finale on Monday, October 9th, which coincides with Canadian Thanksgiving. With the shows taking place each night from May until October, there’s ample opportunity for you to witness the awe-inspiring fireworks exhibition, complemented by panoramic views of the iconic Niagara Falls.
But that’s not all! In addition to the fireworks, make sure to catch the Falls Illumination, a mesmerizing showcase of colorful lights that dance against the backdrop of the Falls. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. So, plan your visit now, and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Niagara Falls!
The best views are in Queen Victoria Park overlooking Niagara Falls or catch it on our Falls cam page. Please note: all dates are subject to change and dependent upon weather and wind conditions. (more fireworks info).
More Victoria Day Weekend Events
Virgil Stampede 2023: Victoria Day Weekend May 20, 21 & 22, 2023
Fifty-five years ago a group of neighbors got together to organize fireworks for Victoria Day. Today the Virgil Stampede celebrates with rides, games, fun events and great food — every year we add something new and this year will be better than ever. Net proceeds of this year’s Stampede is going to the proposed Pump Track Concept. Get Details
Virgil Sports Park
1565 Four Mile Creek Road, Virgil, Ontario, Canada
Hours:
Sat. May 20: 10:00am – 9:00pm | Sun. May 21: 11:00am – 8:00pm | Mon. May 22: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Admission Cost: Adults $5.00/ea; Children under 10 Free; Free Admission on Sunday
If ride wrist band is purchased in advance entry is free.
**For a full list of events check out our events calendar.
Niagara Activities:
Clifton Hill The World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls
Clifton Hill really does have everything that you might need in order to make the Victoria Day weekend something worth remembering. This popular amusement area is known for its uplifting energy and an abundance of activities that anyone of any age can enjoy.
Since most families like to stretch their dollars, save by purchasing the Clifton Hill FUN PASS directly online and save up to $30 off. Simply select your offer and the quantity needed, and you’ll be all set.
Clifton Hill is where “FUN” happens everyday! Between restaurants, gift shops, and the nightlife how can you possibly get bored? Most of all, enjoy discounts on attractions when you pick up the Fun Pass, or take advantage of our Midway Token Offer to get 160 Great Canadian Midway tokens for $44.25! ONLINE ONLY SPECIAL!
Ways to Relax on Clifton Hill
Open Air Patio Dining!
Kelsey’s Clifton Hill
Kelsey’s Patio Overlooking the Speedway!
For lunch or dinner visit one of the newly opened outdoor patios on Clifton Hill. Stop into Kelsey’s or Boston Pizza to browse through hundreds of menu items that’ll satisfy any craving. Once you’re full and energized you’ll be ready to enjoy each of the activities on Clifton Hill…Most noteworthy, the Niagara Speedway, now open for the season!
Race on the Niagara Speedway
Niagara Speedway
Visit North America’s largest elevated go-cart track facility. The the first of its kind in Canada! Niagara Speedway is a marriage of traditional go-karts with the added fun and excitement of an elevated coaster. Test your driving skills along the straight away, negotiate the hair -pin turns and climb the elevated ramp as you head for the checkered flag!
Ticket Pricing:
Driver $13.00 (Per ~5 Minute Race)
Rider $4.00 (Per ~5 Minute Race)
TICKETS ARE TO BE PURCHASED ON-SITE IN-PERSON
*Prices do not include applicable tax.
Hours of Operation:
| Fri. May 19th | Sat. May 20th | Sun. May 21st | Mon. May 22nd |
| 10am-1:30am | 10am-1:30am | 10am-1:30am | 10am-1am |
*Hours are weather dependent and subject to change.
Niagara Boat Cruises
There’s nothing quite like a boat tour in and around the famous Niagara Falls to celebrate a long weekend. The only question to ask yourself is- how wet are you willing to get?!
Whirlpool Jet Boats (details)
For a gentle misting, opt for the Niagara City Cruises. For something a little more immersive (you may want to consider bringing a change of clothes!) we recommend the Whirlpool Jet Boats. For a tour that falls somewhere in between, there’s always the classic Journey Behind the Falls.
Niagara City Cruises (details)
Get ready to hop aboard and make your way to a memorable experience, no one ever forgets – the Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour. A trip like no other, get up close and personal with the American Falls and the full-mist of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, or ride after sunset for a light-mist experience (that’s still heavy on the magic) with the illumination of the Falls. For a late-at-night moment you’ll only find here, there’s nothing quite like a 40-minute Falls Fireworks Cruise featuring starry skies, panoramic skyline views, stunning illuminations and, of course, fireworks that light up the sky — and your smiling faces.
More Victoria Day Activities
Nature Adventures
White Water Walk
The Niagara Falls Region has an impressive number of options for you to be able to enjoy the incredible wildlife and blooming flowers without getting hit with a single drop from the Falls. Fully immerse yourself in the changing of seasons and the awakening of the beauty that comes with the warmer weather by spending an afternoon at the Botanical Gardens. Just next door is the Butterfly Conservatory, an unforgettable experience with nature that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy the rest of spring and the summer to come. Don’t forget the exciting White Water Walk with the exciting spring run off driving high volume river flow.
Niagara Falls Hiking
The Niagara Region is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a diverse and extensive network of trails to discover. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and experience the breathtaking scenery.
Embarking on a hike in this region is an excellent way to reconnect with the great outdoors, take in stunning views, and breathe in the fresh air. With its serene surroundings, a hike through the Niagara Region’s lush forests and rolling hills can help you find inner peace and stay grounded during these uncertain times.
In fact, studies show that spending time in nature can have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress, easing anxiety, and lowering the risk of depression. By exploring the trails and parks of the Niagara Region, you can enjoy these benefits and rejuvenate your body and mind.
From challenging treks to more leisurely walks, there’s a trail for everyone in the Niagara Region. Whether you’re seeking adventure, solitude, or just a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a hike in this beautiful area is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack a water bottle and some snacks, and hit the trails in the Niagara Region. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it!
Click here to see our list of Epic Hiking Trails in Niagara Falls
Nearby Parks
Niagara Biking
The Niagara Parkway is a key destination for cyclists, offering the 54-kilometre Niagara River Recreation Trail, which spans the entire length of the Niagara River corridor from Fort Erie, past Niagara Falls, and into Niagara-on-the-Lake. Riding along the Recreation Trail is a visual oasis that boasts gardens, recreation, hiking, bouldering, golf courses, restaurants, heritage and historic sites, gift shops and the Niagara Falls.
Fort Erie: 350 Lakeshore Rd, Fort Erie, ON L2A 1B1
Fort George: 51 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Niagara Falls Victoria Day overnight stays!
Holiday weekends are always a vibrant and exciting time on Clifton Hill, and there’s no better way to enjoy Niagara than by spending a night or two in the area. If you’re looking to simplify your vacation planning process, take a look at the various hotels located nearby Niagara Falls.
With a wide range of accommodation options available, you can easily find a hotel that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy and comfortable room, a luxurious suite, or a family-friendly hotel with lots of amenities, there’s something for everyone in Niagara Falls.
Staying in the area also gives you the chance to fully experience all that Niagara has to offer, from the stunning natural beauty of the Falls to the numerous attractions and activities available. Take a leisurely stroll down the promenade, explore the shops and restaurants of Clifton Hill, or try your luck at one of the local casinos.
Starting at $240/Night
Starting at $221/Night
Starting at $322/Night
Starting at $296/Night
Starting at $266/Night
Starting at $201/Night
By planning your trip in advance and selecting the right hotel, you can make the most of your time in Niagara Falls and create unforgettable memories. So, start your vacation planning today by checking out the nearby hotel options and getting ready for an unforgettable trip to one of Canada’s most popular destinations!
Clifton Hill Parking
One-stop-shop: Parking on Clifton Hill’s World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls will put you close to many of the Falls’ top facilities and you will also find many food and beverage options including ice cream shops, hotdog vendors as well as Boston Pizza on Clifton Hill!
Niagara Border Crossing
Proof of vaccination and re-entry testing will no longer be necessary for travellers entering Canada by land, air, or water.
Please note: Monday is Victoria Day in Ontario and is considered one of the busier cross-border weekends in the Niagara–Fort Erie corridor. The busiest day being Victoria Day Monday. Travelers taking advantage of the many cross-border activities on Victoria Day, should consider some of the following border crossing tips to limit hassles between crossing the U.S.A. and Canada.
Click here for full border crossing details: https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid
LCBO Niagara Falls
Both LCBO and The Beer Store will be open during the long weekend. Hours will depend on the specific location.
Generally all the local Niagara LCBO and Beer Stores will be closed Monday, May 22nd, 2023.
Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Holiday Monday: Closed
With so much to offer, Niagara Falls is the ultimate destination for a fun and memorable Victoria Day weekend. Don’t miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in one of Canada’s most beautiful and exciting locations!