SASKATOON — The future of Saskatoon’s two major fireworks displays is uncertain as organizers face logistical hurdles due to ongoing bridge closures and low river levels.
Shad Ali, president of Saskatoon Fireworks Festival Inc., said his not-for-profit group may have to cancel the Canada Day Fireworks Show and the Nutrien Fireworks Festival if they can’t find viable alternative launch sites.
The group traditionally launches fireworks from the Broadway Bridge, which is currently closed for rehabilitation until fall. Canada Day this year falls on a Tuesday, and Ali said they have six weeks to secure a plan. The Labour Day weekend festival is three months away.
“Under normal conditions, we would be firing the fireworks from the Broadway Bridge, but it will be closed both on Canada Day and the fireworks festival,” said Ali.
Originally, organizers hoped to launch the fireworks from barges on the South Saskatchewan River. However, unusually low water levels and heavy sediment have made the river unnavigable.
“We’re trying to figure out where to set up the fireworks. The city won’t allow us to close another bridge, and the next option is to fire from the water. But to set that up, we need barges,” Ali said.
The group has appealed to the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency to release more water into the river. Rainfall or spring runoff from Alberta could also improve conditions in time for the late summer festival.
Ali said the team is actively exploring solutions and working with fireworks companies, but time is running short.
“We could shoot the fireworks from land, like River Landing or Rotary Park,” said Ali. “However, that would limit viewing options. We can’t have fireworks set up close to people.”
Canada Day fireworks were previously held at Diefenbaker Park, which had more open space. Back then, the event attracted up to 18,000 people. Since moving the show downtown, attendance has grown significantly, with 47,000 people last year and about 52,000 expected in 2025.
Ali said the team remains committed to delivering a safe, enjoyable experience, but much hinges on water conditions and municipal cooperation in the weeks ahead.
