Media Release: Canada Day Fireworks Update

The Town of Smiths Falls is providing residents with an update regarding the Canada Day fireworks incident that occurred on July 1, 2026.

As previously communicated, the decision to cancel the planned fireworks display was made due to severe weather conditions and out of concern for public safety. The safety of residents, visitors, staff, volunteers, and emergency response personnel was the Town's primary consideration.

Following the cancellation announcement, the fireworks display proceeded unexpectedly, resulting in confusion and disappointment for many residents and visitors. Since that time, the Town has been in discussions with the fireworks provider to review the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine appropriate next steps. Those discussions have now concluded, and the Town is pleased to advise that the matter has been resolved.

The provider has expressed sincere regret for the confusion and inconvenience experienced by residents and has offered to provide a replacement fireworks display at no additional cost to the Town.

"The decision to cancel the fireworks display was made with public safety as our foremost concern," said Mayor Shawn Pankow. "While the events that followed were not what anyone anticipated, I am pleased that through constructive discussions we have reached a positive resolution for our community. We appreciate the provider's commitment to making things right and look forward to giving residents the opportunity to enjoy the celebration they were expecting."

The Town is currently working to determine a new date for the replacement fireworks display. Further details will be shared with the public once arrangements have been finalized.

The Town of Smiths Falls thanks residents for their patience, understanding, and continued support as we work toward delivering a safe and enjoyable community celebration.

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Media Contact
Joanne Plontz
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1122
Communications@smithsfalls.ca