News

Downtown fire update: Queen Street remains closed

A portion of Queen Street in downtown St. Catharines will remain closed for at least the next couple of days, as fire officials work with the property owner on overhaul of the site.

The street has been closed between St. Paul and King streets since Friday night, when St. Catharines Fire Services was called to 17 Queen St. for a fire at the property – a large building that formerly served as the home of The St. Catharines Standard. Work is underway to determine the structural safety of the...

City of St. Catharines seeks Poet Laureate in celebration of the city’s 150th anniversary

The City of St. Catharines is inviting applications from local poets for a one-year appointment as Poet Laureate, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the City's incorporation.

The Poet Laureate, to be selected through a call to artists that opened today (Dec. 8) at www.stcatharines.ca/calltoartists, will serve as an artistic ambassador for the City, and will use poetry to engage residents, celebrate civic pride, and enrich public life through readings, special initiatives, and cultural...

Firefighters extinguish stubborn Queen Street fire

Queen Street remains closed as crews remain on fire watch

After nearly 18 hours of suppression efforts, a fire at 17 Queen St. in the City’s downtown core has been put out by St. Catharines firefighters.

The fire, which started around 11 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, was finally deemed under control at around 4 p.m. on Saturday, and was declared out around 5 p.m. Crews from St. Catharines Fire Services will remain on scene overnight on fire watch at the building, which was the former home of the St....

Hang some winter warmth on the Museum’s Mitten Tree

Join the tradition and warm some hearts and hands this holiday season with a donation to the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre’s Mitten Tree.

The museum’s annual Mitten Tree campaign begins this Saturday, Dec. 6, and runs through Jan. 4, 2026, with donated new and very gently used winter clothing items being accepted in support of Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold and Start Me Up Niagara.

These organizations are greatly in need of new men’s and women’s socks, and children’s...

City of St. Catharines launches Ice for Five pilot program

The City of St. Catharines is introducing Ice for Five, a new pilot program designed to make ice time more accessible and affordable for small groups. Beginning December 2025, skaters can book a half sheet of ice during non-prime hours for just $75 per hour, taxes and surcharges included.

Ideal for small-group training, skill development, or casual skating, Ice for Five offers a personalized experience without the constraints of traditional ice allocations. The pilot program will run from...