Niagara Parks Blog

The Snowbirds are Coming!
Wednesday, May 29 6 p.m.

As part of the ongoing 125th Anniversary celebrations of The Niagara Parks Commission’s (NPC) Queen Victoria Park, Canada’s iconic military jet

Snowbirds in the hangar at CFB Borden

demonstration team – the Canadian Forces Snowbirds – will be soaring above Niagara Falls on Wednesday, May 29 at 6:00 p.m.

The “Snowbirds Over the Falls” performance will be a 25 minute air show.  The event will allow spectators to witness the military precision of all nine Canadian Forces tutor aircraft flying in perfect unison, only inches apart, above the mighty Falls and parklands of The Niagara Parks Commission.

Live commentary of the event will be made available to the public outside NPC’s Table Rock Welcome Centre. Niagara Parks restaurants: Elements on the Falls and Edgewaters will provide one of the best places to sit, watch and hear the event. Both facilities will be featuring a special event menu along with the broadcast that evening. To view the menu and make reservations please visit www.niagaraparks.com/dining.

Members of the public and their families are welcome to bring their lawn chairs and cameras to enjoy the “Snowbirds Over the Falls” performance. For up to date information, please follow us on our “Snowbirds Over the Falls” Facebook page.

DATE:
Wednesday May 29, 2013

TIME:
6:00 p.m.  Live commentary starts at 4:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Table Rock Welcome Centre is located at 6650 Niagara Parkway.
Elements on the Falls is located at Table Rock Welcome Centre.
Edgewaters Restaurant is located at 6345 Niagara Parkway

Live commentary will only be available at the Table Rock Welcome Centre and Edgewaters Restaurant.

Members of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds team, Canadian Armed Forces, and volunteers of “Snowbirds Over the Falls,” greatly appreciate the support from area communities, governments and park agencies on both sides of the border for making this historic event possible.

The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, NPC is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency. 

Since opening on May 24, 1888, Queen Victoria Park has been the heart of Niagara Parks, playing a vital role in preserving the rich heritage and natural beauty of Niagara Falls. Join us over the Memorial Day weekend for great events at Niagara Parks!

To mark the historic 125th anniversary of the public opening of this park, we’re launching a special 125 Memories of Niagara Parks photo contest through our Facebook page. Stop by and ‘Like’ us, and click the link to share your own photos and stories, then vote on your favourites.

And this weekend is a perfect time to build even more great memories of Niagara Parks. Check out these great commemorative events coming up!

• Wednesday, May 29 6 p.m.
  Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds Exhibition over the Falls
  The one and only Canadian Forces Snowbirds Demonstration Team will be performing their legendary air show demonstration over Niagara
  

  Snowbirds in the hangar at CFB Borden

  Falls for the first time! The team is comprised of pilots from the Canadian Forces, who will use this unique and famous landmark as the perfect backdrop.

  This singular opportunity to see a 25 minute formation display of Military precision featuring all nine Canadian Forces tutors in perfect unison and only inches apart will be a memorable event enhanced by live commentary from the Snowbirds. The show will be announced by Skyboss David Whyte at the Table Rock Welcome Centre. For the best seats to capture this show, be sure to reserve your space:

  Table Rock’s Elements on the Falls [Menu] or Horseshoe Landing Patio [Menu/Beverage Menu]
  (905) 354-3631
  Queen Victoria’s Park’s Edgewaters Restaurant  [Menu]
  (905) 356-2217

• Friday, May 17 – Sunday, June 16, open daily
  Queen Victoria Park 125th Anniversary Photo Exhibit
  Free feature exhibit open to the public in the Victoria Park Gift Shop, depicting the early years of Queen Victoria Park from 1888 to 1950. Seehow NPC constructed the beautiful Park seen today and several of the earliest attractions such as the Journey Behind the Falls and Floral Showhouse.

• Return of the Canada’s Longest Running Fireworks Series
  

  Fireworks over Niagara Falls

  Falls fireworks will take place on Friday, May 24, Sunday, May 26, and Monday, May 27 at 10 p.m., and will continue every Friday, Sunday, and holiday until September 1, preceded by the popular Coca Cola Concert Series on the Victoria Park Stage. The best views are in Queen Victoria Park overlooking Niagara Falls.

• 2013 Coca-Cola Concert Series
  Join us at Victoria Park Stage for a night of great entertainment! Concerts start at 8 p.m. followed by fireworks at 10 p.m.May 24 – Max Hillier & Gatorbait
  May 26 – New York Minute
  May 27 – Rich & the Poor Boys

More About Queen Victoria Park

Tasked with the stewardship and protection of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, The Niagara Parks Commission established Queen Victoria Park as a public asset, to foster the preservation and enjoyment of Niagara Falls for future generations.

Bounded by the steep Fallsview moraine and the Niagara River Gorge, the Park contains a valuable collection of unique native and international plants and beautifully maintained gardens. According to the Annual Report of the Commission in 1888, Queen Victoria Park was opened to the public on the 24th day of May in honour of the 69th birthday of Her Most Gracious Majesty, Queen Victoria.

You may have seen the stunning new video from our friends at Visit Niagara Canada, showcasing just a handful of the fantastic things to see and do in Niagara, but can you name them? How about this short snippet?

This couple is visiting the Laura Secord Homestead in Niagara Parks, just one of the many heritage sites that have been preserved for future generations. Here you can step into the past and learn about Canada’s most famous heroine and her perilous journey in the service of her country.

This beautiful home was the residence of Laura Secord from 1803 until 1835. Ransacked by invading American soldiers during the Battle of 1812, this lovingly restored homestead offers guided tours by costumed interpreters, as well as informational displays that will captivate you with the incredible tales of this courageous Canadian icon.

2013 also marks the year of the Laura Secord Commemorative Walk: a 32-km journey in her footsteps, from her homestead in Queenston, Ontario to Decew House in Thorold. There are also a number of shorter options for those that do not wish to take the full journey. Visit the Friends of Laura Secord website to learn more about the events during the walk and to register.

Admission to the Laura Secord Homestead is $9.50 for adults and $6.25 for children. As always, children five and under are admitted free of charge to all Niagara Parks attractions and sites. You can also save over 35% with the Niagara Heritage Trail Pass, which includes admission to Laura Secord Homestead, Old Fort Erie, Mackenzie Printery and McFarland House. Discover the Heroes and Legends of 1812!

Since opening on May 24, 1888, Queen Victoria Park has been the heart of Niagara Parks, playing a vital role in preserving the rich heritage and natural beauty of Niagara Falls.

To mark the historic 125th anniversary of the public opening of this park, we’re launching a special 125 Memories of Niagara Parks photo contest through our Facebook page. Stop by and ‘Like’ us, and keep an eye out later this week for more details on our page. You’ll be able to share your own photos, stories, and vote on your favourites.

And this weekend is a perfect time to build even more great memories of Niagara Parks. Check out these great commemorative events:

• Friday, May 17, 8 – 10 p.m.
  Special season opening concert by the Mantini Sisters on the Victoria Park Stage, followed by fireworks at 10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 18 11 a.m.
  Special public rededication ceremony and plaque unveiling with dignitaries in front of Queen Victoria Place 12 p.m. – Ceremonial cake cutting (free for public – first come, first served)
• Wednesday, May 29 6 p.m.
  Canadian Air Force Snowbirds Exhibition over the Falls
  The one and only Canadian Forces Snowbirds will be performing their legendary air show demonstration over Niagara Falls for the first time!  Using this unique and famous landmark as the perfect backdrop, this singular opportunity to see a 25 minute formation display of Military precision featuring all nine Canadian Forces tutors in perfect unison and only inches apart will be a memorable event enhanced by live commentary from the Snowbirds. The show will be announced by Skyboss David Whyte at the Table Rock Welcome Centre. For the best seats to capture this show, be sure to reserve your space:Table Rock’s Horseshoe Landing Patio (905) 354-3631
  Queen Victoria’s Park’s Edgewaters Restaurant (905) 356-2217
• Friday, May 17 – Sunday, June 16, open daily
  

  Fireworks over Niagara Falls

  Free feature exhibit open to the public in the Victoria Park Gift Shop, depicting the early years of Queen Victoria Park from 1888 to 1950. Seehow NPC constructed the beautiful Park seen today and several of the earliest attractions such as the Journey Behind the Falls and FloralShowhouse.

• Return of the Falls Fireworks Series
  The Victoria long weekend also marks the return of Canada’s longest-running fireworks series. Falls fireworks will take place on Friday, May 17, Sunday, May 19, and Monday, May 20 at 10 p.m., and will continue every Friday, Sunday, and holiday until September 1, preceded by the popular Coca Cola Concert Series on the Victoria Park Stage. The best views are in Queen Victoria Park overlooking Niagara Falls. For full concert listings, visit www.niagaraparks.com.

More About Queen Victoria Park

Tasked with the stewardship and protection of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, The Niagara Parks Commission established Queen Victoria Park as a public asset, to foster the preservation and enjoyment of Niagara Falls for future generations.

Bounded by the steep Fallsview moraine and the Niagara River Gorge, the Park contains a valuable collection of unique native and international plants and beautifully maintained gardens. According to the Annual Report of the Commission in 1888, Queen Victoria Park was opened to the public on the 24th day of May in honour of the 69th birthday of Her Most Gracious Majesty, Queen Victoria.

Left: White and Red Trilliums, Right: Blue Spotted Salamander

Signs of spring are all around us these days in the nature areas of Niagara Parks.  With this beautiful weather, our local wildlife has suddenly become very active!

Male turkeys (toms) are strutting their stuff for the females, baby geese (goslings) are playing in the grass, snakes are leaving their hibernacula and basking in the sun, salamanders are slithering their way through the mud, and several species of birds have migrated back to the Niagara River and are busy building their nests.

Even the trees have come out of ‘hibernation’!  Many of our native species such as maples and willows are starting to flower with their leaves not far behind.  A variety of flowering crab apple trees along the parkway are also showcasing their brilliant pink and white blooms in contrast to the bright yellow daffodils.  Spring ephemerals such as Red and White Trilliums, Wild Columbine, and Dutchman’s Breeches are also starting to inch their way out of the ground in the Niagara Glen to display their unique short-lived flowers.

Over the next few weeks, the assortment of these blooming species will continue to change.  Only solution to seeing all of them; come back often!

Where does the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory get its butterflies? We think it’s important to support nature’s wonders, and our friends at the El Bosque Nuevo Butterfly Farm agree!

This incredible, self-sufficient farm in Guanacaste, Costa Rica started in 1995 and practices integrated agro-forestry, planting local species, several crops, and host plants needed for adult butterflies and their pupae. The best part? 100% of their profit is used for reforestation, rainforest conservation and research!

Check out this fantastic video showcasing their efforts. Looks like another shipment of butterflies is on its way to the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory!

It has been almost a year since garden enthusiasts gathered at the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse to witness the “world’s tallest flower” bloom. The Amorphophallus Titanum, or Titan Arum, blooms for only a brief period, but its height and unique smell never fail to fascinate.

Since blooming on May 4, 2012, the first flower went dormant and has since restarted the development stage. The vegetative stage began in mid-October, 2012, where a single, large leaf (measuring about 15 feet tall and 11 inches in stem-diameter) spans almost 17-feet-tall!

This vegetative phase can last up to one to two years, during which the tuber will increase in size. The leaf will eventually die, and the tuber will sit dormant again. At the end of this dormancy is when the exciting wait period begins for another bloom.

The second flower, which bloomed 10 days after the first flower, has sat dormant up to early March of 2013. At this point, there is still no visible developing leaf. Each tuber is different in the length of time it sits in each phase, so it is difficult to predict a bloom. Times can range from two to three years between bloom dates. In addition to these two tubers, there are four smaller tubers in various stages of vegetative growth.

During the blooming of the second tuber, The Niagara Parks Commission was contacted by Ohio State University in hopes of attaining pollen for their own developing flower, which requires pollen from another flower to develop seed. The NPC shipped frozen pollen gathered in late May, and Ohio State University returned the favour by sending back approximately 200 seed. The seed was planted on March 6, 2013 and may take up to 160 days to germinate.

Come check out the specimens on display at the Floral Showhouse, open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. You’ll also enjoy the Spring Show, on now until May 10!

Amorphophallus Titanum

Specimen #1
Planted: Jan 6, 2012
Full height: 255 cm (96 in.)
Bloom date: May 4, 2012

Specimen #2
Planted: Jan 6, 2012
Full height: 210 cm (82.5 in.)
Bloom date: May 15, 2012

Join us for the Trees Ontario Community Tree Planting Event
Saturday, May 4, 2013
10 a.m. – noon

Location:
Corner of the Niagara Parkway and Whirlpool Road
Parking available courtesy of Niagara Helicopters, 3731 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls

Tree Planting at Niagara Parks

Join us as we partner with Trees Ontario as part of a province-wide FREE community tree planting event on Saturday, May 4! This annual Community Planting Weekend brings together families, community members and volunteers to take part in a half-day tree planting activity, promoting local engagement and environmental awareness.

Participants will get the chance to directly support their community in a local reforestation project and learn about the benefits of trees, shade and green urban spaces. Last year, the initiative drew more than 550 volunteers and a total of 3,275 trees were planted province-wide.

The planting site is located at the corner of the Niagara Parkway and Whirlpool Road (parking available courtesy of Niagara Helicopters, 3731 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls) and the event will be held rain or shine. Participants are asked to bring their own shovel, gardening gloves and lots of energy! NPC and Trees Ontario will supply the rest – the trees, forestry specialists, mulch and snacks. Appropriate outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes (steel toe if possible), a hat and sunscreen are also recommended. For more information and to register, please visit www.treesontario.ca.

More About Trees Ontario
Trees Ontario is the largest not-for-profit tree planting partnership in North America. The organization is leading efforts to strengthen Ontario’s tree planting infrastructure by enhancing the capacity of its partners through financial support and professional development, delivering landowner incentives through cost offsetting and educating the public through awareness campaigns and workshops. Trees Ontario is the lead delivery agent for the government of Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program. The program significantly cuts landowners’ costs of large-scale tree planting and boosts the number of trees planted across the province. For more information: www.treesontario.ca

Other supporting sponsors include: CAA South Central Ontario, CAA North & East Ontario and TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.

Get Involved – Register Today!

Today is the day we’ve all been waiting for – the official season launch of the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tours!

Maid of the Mist at at the dock

Have you always wondered what it would be like to experience Niagara Falls up close?  Seeing the beautiful photos is one thing, but nothing matches standing next to this world-famous wonder, feeling the pounding force of the water crashing down beside you and feeling the mist on your face.

A ride aboard the world-famous Maid of the Mist is a half-hour thrill of a lifetime!

Did you Know? The Maid of the Mist is North America’s oldest tourist attraction, and millions of visitors have enjoyed the boat tours since 1846. Read more…

 Niagara Falls Adventure Pass: The Ultimate Falls Experience

The Niagara Falls Adventure Pass gives you the best way (and the best value!) to experience the Falls. You’ll save on admission to the Maid Of The Mist, Niagara’s Fury: the Creation of the Falls, White Water Walk and Journey Behind The Falls. That is 30% off the normal price for the Adventure Pass. The pass includes TWO free days of WEGO transit: a bus transit service that services all of your favourite Niagara Parks attractions, as well as other key tourism areas in the city. You’ll also receive an additional $30 bonus discounts for extra attractions, shopping and dining, including:

Journey Behind the Falls

•          $3 off at the Butterfly Conservatory and Old Fort Erie;
•          $2 off at the Whirlpool Aero Car, Sir Adam Beck Power Tour, Laura Secord Homestead, and Fort George;
•          $1 off at the Floral Showhouse, McFarland House, and Mackenzie Printery;
•          $1 off 5 oz. Mini-Melts Ice Cream;
•          $1 off Sugar Sugar at Pop & Lolly’s Candy Store;
•          Buy-2-get-1-free Tapas at Elements on the Falls Restaurant;
•          $5 off a min. purchase of $30 at any Niagara Parks gift shop.

You can buy the Pass on-line or at any of our attractions or Welcome Centres located at entrances to the Park and at Table Rock next to the Horseshoe Falls. When you arrive at Niagara Parks, go to a Welcome Centre or attraction and make timed ticketing reservations for your visits to Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Walk and the Butterfly Conservatory. (Priority Access is NOT available for Maid of the Mist.)

The Adventure Pass can be used over as many days as you like, anytime the attractions are open, from April 19 until October 24.  Adults (13+ yrs) only $46.95. Children (6-12 yrs) $34.95. * (2013 prices quoted in Canadian dollars, taxes not included.) Children 5 and under are admitted to all attractions free of charge!

Don’t miss out on your opportunity this season to explore the Falls and create memories that will last a lifetime! Be sure to connect with us on Facebook and Twitter to share your stories and photos – we’d love to hear from you!

Join Niagara Parks to Celebrate Earth Day: Saturday, April 20, 2013

In celebration of Earth Day, The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) will host a number of events on Saturday, April 20, to encourage a greater appreciation of nature and our environmental surroundings. Join us and take part in the following programs:

4th Annual Friends of the Niagara Glen Earth Day Event
Niagara Glen Nature Centre
3050 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Friends of the Niagara Glen invite everyone to gather at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre for free guided tours of the Glen, home to Ontario’s

Tree Planting at Niagara Parks

greatest concentration of Species at Risk. Tree plantings, geocaching demonstrations and a photo scavenger hunt will also be offered. The Friends Group and their partners will also be showcasing various displays and educational materials about their conservation efforts. Those planning to spend the day are encouraged to bring their own bagged lunch, refillable water bottles and appropriate footwear for rugged terrain.

NPC will also be offering free mulch for pick-up in the Niagara Glen parking lot. Please bring your own shovel and bags.

“Capture the Moment” Photography Workshop with Teresa Forte
Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Conservatory Classroom
2565 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens is pleased to host a special photography workshop, directed by garden photographer and columnist, Theresa Forte. Packed with practical advice for both novice and experienced camera enthusiasts, this hands-on workshop will encourage you to ‘see’ interesting compositions and take better pictures with the camera you already have.

Theresa Forte

The workshop will teach the basic mechanics of good photography, different aspects of lighting and train participants to “think like an artist” no matter what type of camera they use. Forte’s light-hearted approach will inspire you to create pictures you will be proud to show off. Outdoor clothing/footwear is required, and participants are encouraged to bring their own bagged lunch and refillable water bottles. Whether you own a Digital SLR or just a smartphone camera, you do not want to miss this event.

Cost for the workshop is $65.00 (plus tax) and pre-registration is required:
•    In person at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture;
•    By mail: 2565 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2E 6S4;
•    Phone (905) 356-8554 ext. 242; or by
•    Email: lfoster@niagaraparks.com

Registration forms can be obtained online at http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden-trail/botanical-gardens.html.

The Niagara Parks Commission is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.