History to come alive at annual Siege of Fort Erie re-enactment

Brent Jones
August 2, 2025 at 5:26 AM

The sounds of cannon fire will once again echo across Old Fort Erie as Canada’s largest and longest-running battle reenactment returns next weekend.

According to a news release from Niagara Parks, the annual Siege of Fort Erie event is set for August 9 and 10, bringing hundreds of historical re-enactors to the site of Canada’s bloodiest battlefield.

“Old Fort Erie will reawaken with the sounds of cannon fire and soldiers will engage in battle once again,” Niagara Parks said in the release.

Visitors will be able to explore military encampments, meet re-enactors, merchants and sutlers, and learn more about life during the War of 1812.

The weekend will feature historic weapons demonstrations, live skirmishes, guided tours and a “Learn to be a Soldier” program for children. All battle re-enactments and camp areas will be open to the public free of charge, with battles taking place in the south field behind the fort.

Admission is required for entry to Old Fort Erie itself and for the Saturday night lantern tour.

Saturday’s schedule includes a skirmish re-enactment at 11 a.m. commemorating Major Buck’s surrender, a 2 p.m. battle re-enactment marking the battles of Chippawa and Lundy’s Lane, and children’s programming at 3 p.m. A night assault battle is scheduled for 8 p.m., followed by candlelight tours at 9 p.m., which require a separate ticket.

History enthusiasts re-enact the Battle of Chippawa at Old Fort Erie. Credit: Niagara Parks

On Sunday, the site will open for hourly guided tours until 4 p.m., with a battle re-enactment of the Sortie scheduled for 1 p.m. and children’s programming at 2 p.m.

Free parking will be available along Lakeshore Road near Beatrice Street, with a shuttle operating between the parkettes and the Old Fort Erie Welcome Centre. Service will run every 15 minutes from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

More information is available at niagaraparks.com.