Drones will become permanent fixture on Canada Day in Burlington

Drones and fireworks are both expected to be part of Burlington’s Canada Day celebrations in 2025 and beyond.

A memo sent to Burlington city councillors indicates the results of a public survey show most are in favour of both aerial events and the plan is to make that happen.

“As a result of the overwhelming response received from the community related to the drone and fireworks survey, the purpose of this memo is to inform council and the public that the intent is to provide both drone and fireworks displays for the 2025 Canada Day Celebration at Spencer Smith Park,” writes Kristina Clint, manager of festivals and events for the City of Burlington.

Drones were added to the celebrations this past July 1 which saw 70 of the remote-controlled flying robots combine to display several images of both local and Canadian themes. The drone show was followed by the traditional display of fireworks.

The follow-up survey showed that 86.2 per cent of the 1,300 respondents were happy with both displays.

“Based on the feedback received from the community, it is evident that the majority find value in both displays. As a result, staff will plan on offering a fireworks and drone show for the 2025 Canada Day event,” the memo reads.

The drones were included this past year as a pilot program that added $15,000 to the $22,000 the city already spends on the fireworks.

The memo, dated Sept. 4, does not indicate if city council has been asked to approve the increased costs.

Drones were first raised as an alternative to fireworks in February of this year when city staff presented a report that highlighted the problems associated with fireworks. These issues include air pollution, noise and the potential to cause distress in both humans and animals.

“Fireworks displays can trigger panic and feelings of fear and anxiety in those with pre-existing conditions as well as those who are sensitive to noise,” the February report said pointing out that drones produce no air pollutants, create minimal noise and are a reusable technology.

However, the downside to drones is that the technology can be hacked or fail which could cause serious harm if they fall out of the sky. Drones are also more expensive to operate with the cost of a full display being more than double what the City currently pays for fireworks.

Some at city hall have indicated that the permanent introduction of drones will lead to the eventual phasing out of fireworks.