Air quality impacts – July 18, 2026
Due to air quality concerns, City of Kitchener programs, events and services may be impacted. Please check back regularly for additional updates.
This list was last updated on July 18 at 8:35 a.m.
Pools
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All outdoor pools are closed.
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Free indoor public swims:
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Breithaupt Recreation Centre: 2:30 to 4 p.m.
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Grand River Recreation Centre: 2 to 3:30 p.m., 4 to 5:30 p.m., 6 to 7:30 p.m.
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Cameron Heights Pool: 2 to 4 p.m.
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Please note public swims are first come, first served.
Other programming
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The Kitchener Market will be open Saturday, July 18, for a limited-time outdoor experience in the Breezeway, featuring local farmers, makers and vendors.
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Kitchener Ribfest and Craft Beer Show will continue as planned from July 17-19 in Victoria Park with the following facilities to help attendees stay comfortable and beat the heat:
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Shade throughout VIP and general admission areas
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Mist tents
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Free water re-fills
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Indoor space a short walk away at City Hall
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Any sport organization with a sport field or diamond rental may self-select to cancel programming due to poor air quality conditions. If your organization decides to cancel activities, please notify the Facility Scheduler – Sportfields as soon as possible by emailing fieldbookings@kitchener.ca.
Organizations are encouraged to monitor local air quality conditions and make decisions based on the health and safety of participants, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators.
Due to air quality concerns, the City of Kitchener has enacted a temporary fire ban as of July 15, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
Backyard fires and open burns are not permitted at this time. No new open burn permits will be issued or approved during the ban.
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Stay indoors with windows closed and air conditioning turned on if it’s warm
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Visit a fresh air centre, arena or community centre during regular business hours
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Ensure you’re stocked up on anything you need such as food & medications
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Reduce strenuous activities
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Stay away from areas with high vehicle traffic
For more information:
Corporate Communications and Marketing
City of Kitchener
media@kitchener.ca
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.