July 3, 2026, Township of Champlain - Rain may have interrupted the schedule a few times, but it certainly didn't dampen the community spirit. Residents and visitors gathered at L'Orignal Park and Beach over two days to celebrate Canada Day, enjoying live music, spectacular fireworks, family activities, local food vendors, and a welcoming atmosphere made possible through the partnership between the Township of Champlain and the L'Orignal Firefighters Association.
The celebrations kicked off on June 30 with an energetic performance by Justin Roy, and the evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks show. The organizing committee would like to extend a special thank you to Ivaco Rolling Mills and the Chevaliers de Colomb for their generous financial support of the June 30 entertainment and fireworks, helping make this evening possible for the community. With thunderstorms forecast later that evening, organizers made the decision to launch the fireworks slightly ahead of schedule, ensuring spectators could safely enjoy the show before the weather arrived.
Activities continued throughout Canada Day with inflatable games, food and beverage vendors, and entertainment for all ages. Although a passing thunderstorm temporarily emptied the beach and park, the sunshine quickly brought everyone back, creating another vibrant afternoon filled with families and visitors.
"Weather was undoubtedly the biggest challenge this year," said Sydney Collard, Director of Parks and Recreation. "François and I met regularly—sometimes every hour—to monitor the weather radar and make informed decisions together. We were fortunate that the storm cells moved through quickly, allowing us to safely continue with the festivities. I know several neighbouring municipalities unfortunately had to cancel their Canada Day celebrations or fireworks because of the weather, and I really feel for them. I know how much planning and hard work goes into organizing an event like this. We're especially grateful that, by holding our fireworks on June 30, we were able to provide the community with the celebration they had been looking forward to."
The event once again highlighted the strong community spirit that defines Champlain, bringing together local organizations, volunteers, businesses, and residents to create a memorable celebration.
"It was incredible to see our community come together once again," said François Bellemare, from the L'Orignal Firefighters Association. "I would like to sincerely thank our volunteers, community partners, Township staff, members of the L'Orignal firefighters Association, vendors, performers, and everyone who joined us to celebrate. Events like this are only possible because of the dedication and generosity of so many people."
The organizing committee also wishes to recognize the Ontario Provincial Police and members of the OPP Auxiliary Program, who were present throughout both days of the celebration to help ensure the safety of participants.
The organizing committee also extends its sincere appreciation to the businesses and organizations whose generosity helped make this year's celebration possible. Special thanks go to our major sponsors, Ivaco Rolling Mills, the Government of Canada, the Chevaliers de Colomb, and United Steelworkers Locals 8794 and 6565, as well as Asselin Independent, Schultz Barrette Surveying, Le Petit Pain Bakery, the L'Orignal Food Bank, and Home Hardware Hawkesbury Lumber. The Township of Champlain and the L'Orignal Firefighters Association thank everyone who attended and helped make this year's celebration another memorable success, and look forward to welcoming the community back next year.
