An Invite to All from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission
Posted August 7th, 2024 on Niagara At Large
Old Fort Erie to Reawaken During Annual Battle Reenactment Weekend – Saturday, Aug 10th thru Sunday, August 11th
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* Step back in time at Old Fort Erie and experience Canada’s largest and longest-running battle reenactment
Old Fort Erie, across the upper waters of Niagara River from Buffalo, N.Y. in Fort Erie, Ontario
- * Guests can visit the military encampment to meet reenactors, merchants and sutlers for a glimpse of life during the War of 1812
- * Additional information and event schedule available at niagaraparks.com/siege
Photos courtesy of Niagara Parks Commission
Fort Erie, ON – Cannons will roar and soldiers will clash once more as Old Fort Erie hosts the 39th annual Siege of Fort Erie on August 10 and 11.
Known as Canada’s largest and longest-running battle reenactment weekend, hundreds of reenactors will recreate an authentic military encampment and demonstrate why it is known as the country’s bloodiest battlefield.
The annual siege weekend is packed with activities for all ages, including the Mini Militia Kids Experience, historic weapons demonstrations and live skirmishes.
Visitors are welcome to explore the Fort and military camps, including Merchant’s Row—where they can browse the wares of merchants and sutlers (those allowed to follow and supply the army) dressed in period costume, carrying on business as it was done during the 1800s.
Battle reenactments and camp areas are open to the public at no charge, with all battles occurring in the South Field behind the Fort. Admission to Old Fort Erie and the Saturday Night Lantern Tour can be purchased on-site.
For more details, visit Annual Siege of Old Fort Erie Reenactment (niagaraparks.com).
Event Highlights
Saturday, August 10
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Fort Open, hourly guided tours until 4 p.m. (except during battles)
- 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. – Welcome Centre Open
- 11 a.m. – Change in Command Ceremony
- 2 p.m. – Battle reenactment in commemoration of Chippawa and Lundy’s Lane
- 3 p.m. – Mini Militia programming for children
- 8 p.m. – Night Assault Battle
- 9 p.m. – Candlelight Tours (Separate Admission Ticket Required)
Sunday, August 11
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Fort & Welcome Centre Open, hourly guided tours until 4 p.m. (except during battles)
- 1 p.m. – Battle reenactment of the Sortie
- 2 p.m. – Mini Militia where kids can learn to be a soldier
About Niagara Parks- Since its establishment in 1885, Niagara Parks has remained a self-financed agency of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, entrusted to preserve and protect the land surrounding Niagara Falls and the Niagara River. Today, Niagara Parks boasts gardens, a horticulture school, recreation, golf courses, restaurants, heritage and historic sites, gift shops and, of course, Niagara Falls. In short, natural landscapes, history, family fun, hiking, culinary delights, attractions and adventure.
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