Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic Fort George, now open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday until the end of October, is hopping with summer activities.
With expansive green spaces, interesting demonstrations and fascinating stories, it’s a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.
The fort has some special events on this summer.
The Tug of War: History of Military Sports exhibit – now till Sept. 5
In celebration of the 2022 Canada Summer Games, Fort George, the Niagara Military Heritage Centre and the Niagara-on-the-Lake Historical Society and Museum have teamed up to bring visitors a new temporary exhibit showcasing the important role that sports and athletics played in military life.
As soldiers trained and prepared to serve their country, both at home and overseas, this training was gruelling while other duties were often monotonous and tiresome.
Sports were critical to bolstering spirits and improving morale. They instilled camaraderie, teamwork, dedication and served as a distraction for soldiers far from home.
This exhibit tells the story of the links between sports and soldiers through photos, original artifacts and memorabilia.
Soldier’s Field Days – Aug. 20 and 21
As the Summer Games come to an end, the soldiers of the fort vye for the coveted title of “Best Soldier.”
They’ll compete in such events as, The Manual of Arms, Dressed for Duty and the famous Firing Elimination Challenge.
Check out the soldiers’ profiles on Fort George’s Facebook page.
Families activities
The fort’s large outdoor spaces allow children to freely explore the spacious grounds and discover the rich history associated with Fort George.
Upon entry, children receive an Xplorers booklet to guide their discovery and uncover unique stories of the fort.
Children can chat with costumed interpreters and have fun exploring living spaces, costuming and games. Featured presentations by senior staff with expansive knowledge of history offer children a learning experience that cannot be captured in the classroom.
The Agora, located just outside the fort walls, is popular for afternoon picnics and walking trails connect you with the Commons and the Butler’s Barracks historic site.
History enthusiasts
Rebuilt during the Great Depression, heritage buildings at the fort allow visitors to explore soldiers’ barracks, officers’ quarters, officers’ kitchen and discover an incredible collection of historic artifacts.
The oldest surviving military building in Ontario, the original powder magazine, is tucked away at the back of the fort.
Hourly musket demonstrations showcase the detailed steps of firing a Short Land smoothbore muzzle loading flintlock musket.
Costumed interpreters provide passionate knowledge on various topics such as military weaponry, clothing and food.
Visitors will also learn about the role of music in military life through performances by the 41st Fife and Drum Corp, a group of dedicated staff and youth volunteers that perform using historically accurate instruments.
Fort George is one of seven national historic sites in and around Niagara-on-the-Lake. Fort Mississauga features a refurbished brick tower and earthwork, walking paths, and viewing platform that showcases the site’s strategic location across from Fort Niagara on the U.S. side.
Check out the others at Culture – Fort George National Historic Site (pc.gc.ca).
Daily admission for adults is $12.50, seniors are $10.75 and youth 17 and under are free.
Season passes are $31.50 for adults and $26.75 for seniors. Kids are free every visit.
