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History Will Reawaken During Annual Battle Reenactment at Old Fort Erie

August 5, 2025

Niagara Parks

  • Old Fort Erie will come to life once again during the Siege of Fort Erie on Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10
  • Visit the military encampment to meet reenactors, merchants and sutlers to discover what life was like during the War of 1812
  • Additional information and event schedule available at niagaraparks.com/siege

Fort Erie, ON – Old Fort Erie will reawaken with the sounds of cannon fire and soldiers will engage in battle once again with the return of the annual Siege of Fort Erie, Canada’s largest and longest-running battle reenactment, on Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10, 2025. Hundreds of reenactors will recreate an authentic military encampment, providing a glimpse into life during the War of 1812 and vividly demonstrating why this site became known as Canada’s bloodiest battlefield.

The annual Siege weekend is filled with family-friendly activities for all ages including 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 niagaraparks.com/siege.

Parking and Shuttle Information

Free public parking is available at the parkettes along Lakeshore Road near Beatrice Street. A free shuttle will operate throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., on August 9 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on August 10, transporting guests from the parkettes to the Old Fort Erie Welcome Centre every 15 minutes.

Media Assets are available here.

Event Highlights

Saturday, August 9

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Fort Opens, hourly guided tours until 4 p.m. (except during battles)

11 a.m. – Skirmish reenactment in commemoration of Major Buck’s Surrender

2 p.m. – Battle reenactment in commemoration of Chippawa and Lundy’s Lane

3 p.m. – Learn to be a Soldier – programming for kids

8 p.m. – Night Assault Battle

9 p.m. – Candlelight Tours (Separate Admission Ticket Required)

Sunday, August 10

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. – Learn to be a Soldier – programming for kids

Niagara Parks

Niagara Parks

The Niagara Parks Commission is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.