Firework reminders and holiday hours ahead of Victoria Day
Using fireworks responsibly
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 updated in 2025, 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, Victoria Day fireworks can only be set off on privately owned property on May 18 between 9 and 11 p.m. When setting off fireworks during these times, residents must meet the setback requirements, which only allow fireworks to be set off in areas over 10 metres 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 set off by people aged 18 or over.
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.
Things to do
- Activa Sportsplex indoor walking track: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Free public skating at Activa Sportsplex: 3:30 - 4:35 p.m.
- Toonie swims at Forest Heights Pool: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Register on ActiveNet.
What's open
- Kitchener City Hall: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (no in-person services available)
- Activa Sportsplex: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. (walking track), 3:30 - 4:35 p.m. (public skating)
- Forest Heights pool: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
What's closed
- All community centres
- Community arenas
- Breithaupt Centre
- Grand River Recreation Complex
- Cameron Heights Pool
- Kitchener Market and Food Hall
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.