Weather permitting, the City of Edmonton plans to set fireworks off over the river valley on July 1. The show begins over the central river valley at 11 p.m. and is funded by the federal government. In a media release, the city recommended “excellent” viewing locations: Good viewing locations with an indirect sightline are also available: Viewing isn’t available from Kinsmen Park, and pedestrian access will be blocked on the trail after road closures. The Kinsmen playground and picnic areas will close at 6 a.m. on Canada Day. Pedestrian access across the North Saskatchewan River will be blocked on the High Level Bridge, 109 Street from 97 Avenue to 87 Avenue, and Menzies Bridge from 9:45 p.m. to 30 minutes after fireworks end. The east sidewalk of the High Level Bridge was closed earlier this week and will remain closed next week. Groat Road Bridge, James Macdonald Bridge, Walterdale Bridge and the Low Level Bridge will stay open during that time. A portion of the river to the north of Kinsmen Park, from Menzies Bridge to the Walterdale Bridge, will be blocked to all watercraft to protect the public from the launch zone. As for watercraft, the city asked Edmontonians to keep off the North Saskatchewan River due to rising water levels. It has also closed a number of low-lying trails along the river. Operating a drone during the fireworks display is forbidden as per newly updated bylaws from May. Canada Day road closures can be found on the City of Edmonton website. Fireworks are only allowed to be launched by certified professionals with a permit from Edmonton Fire Rescue Services within city limits. Any use of fireworks without proper permits is illegal and can run an offender a $10,000 fine.
