Firework reminders and holiday hours ahead of the Victoria Day long weekend

Residents are encouraged to keep safety in mind this Victoria Day long weekend and exercise caution with private fireworks displays. The City's Fireworks and Firecrackers Bylaw was recently updated, so residents are asked to re-familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations for fireworks in advance of the holiday.

Under the City of Kitchener Municipal Code, fireworks can only be set off on privately owned property between 9 and 11 p.m. on Victoria Day and Canada Day, and between 8 and 10 p.m. on Diwali. When setting off fireworks during these times, residents must meet the setback requirements, which only allow fireworks to be set off in areas over 25 feet away from any building or structure. Fireworks cannot be set off on City-owned lands, parks or woodlots, roadways, or schoolyards. They can only be sold to or set off by people over the age of 18.

Setting off fireworks outside of the permitted areas and times could result in a minimum fine of $1,500. To learn more about when and where fireworks are permitted and for tips on how to use fireworks safely, visit Kitchener.ca/fireworks.

For firework complaints, call the Waterloo Regional Police Service non-emergency line at 519-570-9777. In the event of an emergency or dangerous situation, always call 911.

Facilities and services

Most city facilities and services have modified hours over the Victoria Day long weekend.

City Hall

Kitchener City Hall will be closed on Monday, May 19.

Community centres

All community centres will be closed on Monday, May 19.  

Pools and splashpads

City pools will be closed on Monday, May 19, except for Forest Heights Pool, which will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Outdoor pools will open in June.

Splashpads are open for the season, operating from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily, and will be open throughout the long weekend. For details, visit Kitchener.ca/splashpads.

Kitchener Public Library

All Kitchener Public Library locations will be closed on Monday, May 19. 

Kitchener Golf

Doon Valley and Rockway golf courses are open on Monday, May 19. Visit KitchenerGolf.ca to book a tee time.

Kitchener Market

The Kitchener Market Farmers’ Market and Food Hall remains open on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market will be closed as usual on Sunday, May 18 and Monday, May 19.

The Aud and community arenas

Don McLaren, Grand River, Lions and Sportsworld Arenas will be closed on Monday, May 19.

Activa Sportsplex Arena will be open this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 8 a.m. to 4p.m. The Lyle S. Hallman walking track, will be open on Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Monday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Aud will be open for scheduled rentals during the Victoria Day long weekend.

Budd Park

Budd Park sports fields, diamonds, and indoor soccer facility will be open for scheduled rentals during the Victoria Day long weekend. The office will be closed on Monday, May 19.

For more information:

Kayla Snyder

Manager, Corporate Communications

City of Kitchener

media@kitchener.ca