Mississauga’s Canada Day celebrations are getting a makeover! After the beloved Paint the Town Red festival was cancelled for 2025, local businesses and city officials are teaming up to craft a new event to keep the patriotic spirit alive on July 1.
Last week, the Paint the Town Red organizers pulled the plug on this year’s festivities, citing “funding shortages, rising costs, logistical hurdles, and economic uncertainty.” The festival, a Port Credit tradition since 2003, promised to return in 2026—but that hasn’t stopped the community from rallying for a replacement this summer.
The annual event, known for its vibrant Canada Day parade, live music, street vendors, and dazzling fireworks, has long been a highlight of Mississauga’s festival scene. Its cancellation sparked an outpouring of disappointment online, with fans mourning the loss of a family-friendly favorite.
But hope is on the horizon. The Port Credit Business Improvement Association (BIA) is stepping up, exploring a new celebration to fill the void. They’ve already locked in a food-tasting event for July 1, which will now expand to include Canada Day festivities—complete with a partial closure of Lakeshore Road to make room for the fun.
“We’re ready to show our Canadian pride in 2025,” the BIA announced on Facebook. “This is a chance for our community and visitors to unite, celebrate Canada, and boost our local economy.” City officials are also pitching in, working to ensure the day isn’t left unmarked.
Paint the Town Red had earned its reputation as one of Mississauga’s most spirited gatherings, drawing growing crowds each year to revel in the nation’s birthday. This time around, attendees had been especially eager to wave the flag high amid U.S.-imposed economic sanctions rattling national pride.
Traditionally, the festival kicked off with a parade down Lakeshore Road, followed by street performances, kid-friendly activities, food stalls, and live tunes at Memorial Park—capped off with a booming fireworks finale.
The BIA promises their new event will deliver the same sense of unity and celebration while supporting local businesses. “Stay tuned for more details as we plan a day to honor Canada and bring people together,” they teased.
With a fresh vision brewing, Port Credit is determined to keep July 1 red, white, and lively—proving that even a cancellation can’t dim Canada’s birthday spirit.