39th Annual Wards Island Fire Parade
Friday, July 31, 2026
8:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.
Withrow Street
One of Toronto Island's most beloved summer traditions returns as Shadowland Theatre hosts the 39th Annual Ward's Island Fire Parade. Culminating a week-long community arts residency, this magical evening brings neighbours, artists, and visitors together for a brilliant display of grassroots creativity.
The festivities kick off as dusk settles, featuring handcrafted large-scale puppets, dramatic stilt-walkers, and live music winding through the quiet paths of Ward's Island down to the beach. Community members are encouraged to bring their own lanterns, friends, and family to participate in the luminous procession.
To get there, hop on the ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal to Ward's Island and give yourself plenty of time to explore the island before the parade starts. It's a uniquely whimsical Toronto summer experience that showcases the best of community-driven arts.
