New bandshell at Sugarbowl Park soon open for community events
October 5, 2025 at 6:48 AM
A long-promised bandshell is finally becoming a reality at Fort Erie’s Sugarbowl Park.
Approved in 2023, the $275,000 project brings a permanent stage to one of the town’s busiest public spaces. Officials say the new feature will give groups and residents more ways to use the park.
“There is no bandshell located in Fort Erie,” said Cole Patton, junior communications and marketing advisor for the Town of Fort Erie.
“The Sugarbowl has parking, washrooms, and an ample open space, but no shade structure,” he told Fort Erie Radio.
Construction of a new bandshell at Sugarbowl Park was largely funded through generous donors, including $55,000 from the Fort Erie Lions Club. Credit: Brent Jones | Fort Erie RadioThe park’s location and amenities made it the top choice, according to Patton, who added that public feedback was part of the process through the town’s parks and open space master plan.
The project drew financial support from local groups, including a $55,000 donation from the Fort Erie Lions Club and $20,000 from the Fort Erie Underwater Recovery Unit. Niagara Region also contributed a $70,000 Public Realm Infrastructure Grant.
Keith Rothney, president of the Fort Erie Lions Club, told Fort Erie Radio on Friday the project holds special significance for him and the group.
He recalled that back in the 1990s, when Sugarbowl Park was first being developed, the Lions donated roughly $300,000 to the project. Even at the time there were plans for a bandshell or pavilion to be part of the park.
“In many ways, this $50,000 donation feels like we are finally completing something we set out to do decades ago,” said Rothney.
He added that the Lions Club is proud to support the bandshell and to continue being part of the community in such a meaningful way.
Residents will soon be able to book the bandshell through the town’s website. Credit: Brent Jones | Fort Erie RadioLocal residents will be able to book the bandshell by submitting a contact form at forterie.ca.
The addition follows other recent upgrades at Sugarbowl Park, including a new splash pad and playground.
Once finishing touches are complete, the bandshell will be ready for concerts, gatherings and other community events.
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About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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