Kick off summer with live music, family fun at Lakeside Long Weekend

Long Weekenders, get ready! The City of St. Catharines is kicking off summer with a bang — with spectacular fireworks, family-friendly festivities, live music, local flavours, and more.

Lakeside Long Weekend returns to Lakeside Park Monday, June 30 and Canada Day, Tuesday, July 1. Admission is free and all are welcome to enjoy one of Niagara’s can’t-miss summer festivals. Presented in partnership with Cicada Music and Arts Festival with support from Heritage Canada and Experience Ontario, the two-day event brings together the community for a cultural celebration with live music, art and family fun.

“We’re back for year three of Lakeside Long Weekend and it’s shaping up to be our best one yet,” says Andrea Connelly-Miele, the City’s community and events coordinator.

“We have an incredible mix of Canadian touring bands and amazing local acts. Whether you’re into rock-and-roll, alt-country, or both, there’s something for you. Add in delicious food, fun vibes, and that unbeatable lakeside backdrop, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable weekend. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another year.”

This year, St. Catharines proudly joins the national Canada Day Drumming initiative. At 2 p.m. on July 1, cities from across the country will unite in a powerful six-minute drumming celebration of diversity, peace, and unity. The historic Lakeside Park Carousel begins its daily summer schedule on July 1 and will open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the Canada Day fireworks display over Lake Ontario starts at approximately 10 p.m.

Festivities on June 30 and July 1 include live painting, a life-sized LEGO lounge and super-sized inflatable games. Long Weekenders can contribute to a collaborative work of art with Willow Arts Community, which will be displayed in a City park following the event. St. Catharines Fire Services will greet families with activities and everyone can enjoy good eats and summer sippers from local food trucks and craft drink vendors.

Live bands will play from the main stage from 5-9 p.m. on June 30 and noon to 10 p.m. July 1. This year’s musical lineup features: The Strictly Hip and Sloan Roberts on June 30; Crown Lands, Cuff the Duke, The Redhill Valleys, Permilla, Lunipeer, Sleepy Jean, Feverish Lemons and Rockin' Time with Mr. Rob and Friends on July 1.

Funds will be raised for Pathstone Mental Health and non-perishable food donations collected to support the Niagara Regional Native Centre Community Pantry. Parking at Lakeside Park will be free on July 1.

Visit stcatharines.ca/LakesideLongWeekend for more information.