Canada Day Fireworks Return to White Rock July 1

By BRIAN HENDERSON · June 26, 2026 · PNW Daily

WHITE ROCK, B.C. — Thousands of people are expected to line White Rock’s waterfront on Wednesday, July 1, as Canada Day by the Bay returns with a full day of live entertainment, food vendors, family activities and a fireworks finale visible from both sides of the border.

For residents on the U.S. side of the border, the annual celebration offers two ways to enjoy the festivities. Travelers can cross into Canada to experience the event in person, while those staying in the United States can watch the fireworks from Blaine’s waterfront without crossing the border.

The free, all-ages celebration runs from noon until 10:30 p.m. at Memorial Park and West Beach.

Fireworks Cap Off a Full Day of Entertainment

The celebration begins at noon with welcome remarks from White Rock Mayor Megan Knight, followed by a performance of “O Canada” by Oceane Sek accompanied by bagpipes.

Live music continues throughout the afternoon before country-roots artist Antonio Larosa takes the stage at 7 p.m. The evening concludes with Bad Medicine, a Bon Jovi tribute band, performing at 8:30 p.m.

The night’s highlight comes at 10:15 p.m., when fireworks launch over Semiahmoo Bay.

The display can be viewed from White Rock’s promenade, Memorial Park and East and West Beach. Across the international border, many spectators also gather along Blaine’s waterfront to watch the show reflected over the bay.

Main Stage Schedule

Noon brings the welcome ceremony and “O Canada.” Amy Van Bergen performs at 1 p.m., followed by Generations at 2 p.m., Jim’s Boutique at 3 p.m. and Tiller’s Folly at 4 p.m. DJ Christina takes over at 5:15 p.m. before Antonio Larosa headlines at 7 p.m. Bad Medicine closes the night at 8:30 p.m.

Activities for the Whole Family

Beyond the music, visitors will find activities throughout the waterfront.

The Kids Zone near the White Rock (P’Quals) features face painting, balloon artists, temporary tattoos, games, crafts and an interactive music booth.

Sports fans can visit the Soccer Zone in Memorial Park to play one-on-one matches and celebrate Team Canada.

Meanwhile, more than 50 artisan and food vendors will line the promenade between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., offering handmade goods, artwork, clothing, jewelry and local food.

Visitors can also stroll Canada’s longest pier, one of White Rock’s signature attractions, while enjoying views across Semiahmoo Bay.

Border Planning for Blaine Visitors

Americans planning to attend in person should expect heavier-than-normal traffic at the Peace Arch and Pacific Highway border crossings throughout the afternoon and evening.

Those who prefer to avoid border delays can still enjoy one of the region’s best fireworks displays from several public viewpoints along Blaine’s shoreline.

The fireworks are scheduled to begin at 10:15 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, weather permitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is Canada Day by the Bay in White Rock?

Canada Day by the Bay takes place Wednesday, July 1, from noon to 10:30 p.m. at Memorial Park and West Beach in White Rock, B.C. The event is free and open to all ages. Fireworks launch over Semiahmoo Bay at 10:15 p.m., weather permitting.

Can I watch the White Rock Canada Day fireworks from Blaine without crossing the border?

Yes. Many Blaine residents watch the White Rock fireworks from public viewpoints along Blaine’s shoreline each year without crossing into Canada. The fireworks display over Semiahmoo Bay is often clearly visible from the U.S. side of the border.

Who is performing at Canada Day by the Bay 2026?

The main stage lineup includes Amy Van Bergen, Generations, Jim’s Boutique, Tiller’s Folly and DJ Christina during the afternoon. Country-roots artist Antonio Larosa headlines at 7 p.m., followed by Bad Medicine, a Bon Jovi tribute band, at 8:30 p.m.

Should I expect border delays on Canada Day at the Peace Arch crossing?

Yes. Americans crossing into Canada for the event should plan for heavier-than-normal traffic at both the Peace Arch and Pacific Highway border crossings throughout the afternoon and evening of July 1. Arriving early or returning after the crowds thin can help reduce wait times.