About Fort George – Niagara’s Favourite Historical Monument
When you visit Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake, you don’t need a time machine to travel back to the War of 1812 because our town proudly boasts this rich historical monument and the unique experiences offered there. This military post marks the place where brave young soldiers fought to protect Upper Canada during the War of 1812, and year after year, the Friends of Fort George work tirelessly to share this important part of Canadian history with visitors from across the country.
A Must-See Historical Destination in Niagara-on-the-Lake
An easy trip from Toronto and Buffalo, Fort George is just minutes from the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Victorian-inspired town centre. The site is open year-round, with different events, performances and military demonstrations happening frequently.
From April through to December, you can visit Fort George to take part in any number of events that will be as educational as they are entertaining for the whole family. From special celebrations in honour of the officers who fought in the War of 1812 through to murder mysteries, artillery days and battle re-enactments, this site is a must-see for history buffs and people, of all ages, who aren’t afraid of a little gunpowder and glory.
Planning Your Visit to Fort George
Even if you don’t want to attend a special event, you can simply travel the short distance from your accommodations in Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore the Fort’s eight meticulously rebuilt period buildings during its regular hours of operation. During your visit, you may also be able to see an internationally-renowned fife and drum corps, in full period dress, as they perform military music and demonstrations.
From musket demonstrations through to your ability to dawn legitimate War of 1812 military garb, a day at Fort George promises a highly engaging and authentic way to learn more about the battle to protect Upper Canada, alongside developing your understanding of life way back then.
Fort George Hours of Operation
December 1, 2018 – March 31, 2019
Open: Noon to 4 pm, weekends only. *Last ticket sold at 3:45 pm
April 1, 2019 – April 30, 2019
Open: 10 am to 5 pm, weekends only. *Last ticket sold at 4:15 pm
May 1, 2019 – October 31, 2019
Open: 10 am to 5 pm, seven days a week. *Last ticket sold at 4:15 pm
November 1, 2019 – November 30, 2019
Open: 10 am to 5 pm, weekends only. *Last ticket sold at 4:15 pm
Entry Fees & Admission
Adult: $11.70 | Senior: $25 | Youth: Free
Fort George Events 2019
Learn what’s happening over the next several months at Fort George, so you and your family or friends can plan to escape 2019 to a getaway back in time.
War of 1812 Officers Day
See what life in 1812 was really like as our costumed re-enactors show off the stunning looks from over two hundred years ago. Exciting historical demonstrations will take place throughout the day.
Date: May 18, 2019
Fort George Murder Mystery
Take part in a heart-racing murder mystery adventure at Fort George and help Major Blue find the clues and interrogate suspects to solve this historically-fun case!
Date: May 24, 2019
Artillery Day
Celebrate the Birthday of the Canadian Royal Regiment. Fort George will be celebrating with cannon and mortar firing demonstrations as well as feature events highlighting past ‘heavy metal’ artillery.
Date: May 25, 2019
Fort George in the Great War
This event is a commemoration that history buffs won’t want to miss. Parks Canada and re-enactors from Canada and the US will come together to recreate the ‘War to End All Wars’ and demonstrate its beginnings as Camp Niagara.
Date: June 22 – 24, 2019
Celebrate Canada Day at Fort George
Celebrate Canada’s 152nd birthday at Fort George for a historically good time. Join the Friends of Fort George for a pancake breakfast in Simcoe Park, followed by a demonstration by the 41st Regiment Fife & Drum Corps, a concert, canon demonstration and dazzling fireworks in the evening.
Date: July 1, 2019
Battle of Fort George Re-Enactment
Take part in a celebration to commemorate the 206th anniversary of the Battle of Fort George. Experience a must-see re-enactment of the famed battle that took place in 1812, including cannon and musket firings. Exciting music and entertainment will also be enjoyed during this two-day celebration.
Date: July 13 & 14, 2019
Jane Austin Tea Party in Niagara
This annual event has become a local favourite. Combining great fun, literature, tea and delicious treats, all while paying homage to Jane Austen’s famed published works. This year the tea party celebrates the Mansfield Park novel by Jane Austin.
Date: August 1st, 2019
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Navy Hall, 305 Ricardo Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Cost: $20 per person
20th Annual Fife & Drum Muster & Soldiers’ Field Day in Niagara
Join us for the 20th Annual Fife & Drum Muster and Soldiers’ Field Day. Corps and infantry from across North America meet at Fort George to demonstrate the impeccable military skills of the early 19th century. Live demonstrations and exciting entertainment will be experienced all weekend long.
Date: August 17 & 18, 2019
Echoes of Niagara’s Past: A Military Timeline Event
Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake celebrates over 200 years of historical events. Parks Canada and the Lincoln and Welland Regimental Museum play homage to its rich history in this weekend celebration.
See veterans, interpreters and animators as they share historical knowledge and insights from The War of 1812, World War I and World War II.
Date: August 24 & 25, 2019
Battle of Queenston Heights Commemoration
Join us for a celebration to commemorate the 207th anniversary of the Battle of Queenston Heights. Take part in guided tours and climb the steps to the very top of Brock’s Monument to see stunning views of the Niagara River and Queenston Heights.
Date: October 13, 2019
Time: From 10am – 5pm
Beefsteak Society Dinner
Take part in a traditional dinner complete with a steak dinner, live music, exciting entertainment and auction. Themed after the ever-popular Beefsteak Society of England from the 1700’s, this exciting fundraising event is not one to be missed!
Date: November 8th, 2019
Christmas At Fort George: Garrison Christmas
A favourite among locals and visitors alike, the Fort George Garrison Christmas event is an exciting historical holiday event in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Experience traditional holiday festivities, food, games and décor throughout the buildings at Fort George.
Date: December 14 & 15, 2019
Time: Noon – 4pm
New Year’s Day Levee at Fort George
Ring in 2020 at Fort George! Celebrate the near year at the Navy Hall and enjoy celebratory toasts, music and a must-see canon demonstration to start the new year!
Date: December 14 & 15th, 2019
Time: 3pm
Location: Navy Hall, 305 Ricardo Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
For more information about Fort George events, contact the Friends of Fort George for event details and pricing.
Incorporate a Little Elegance into Your Historical Getaway
Your visit to Fort George will take you back to a time none of us can likely even imagine. But, after you’ve explored the monuments and enjoyed the Fort’s historical demonstrations, Vintage Hotels looks forward to welcoming you back to the present in their upscale hotels in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Book your Niagara-on-the-Lake getaway now and prepare to be swept up in all the delicious foods, wines and activities that define our heritage town and the vibrancy of the well-loved Fort George historical site.
Feature image courtesy of The Friends of Fort George*