Fort Malden National Historic Site, Parks Canada

Boating and kayaking season may be here, but please remember you cannot launch or dock your watercraft on the Detroit River at .

Instead, have a look a TWEPI’s “On the Water” resources for everything you’ll need to have an informed day on the water in Windsor and Essex County: https://www.visitwindsoressex.com/waterfront/paddle/

Please note: the Town of Amherstburg’s Canada Day fireworks display will not be visible from Fort Malden this year. Instead, head to the King’s Navy Yard Park to view the display.

Before the fireworks, you can still enjoy a full day’s worth of events right here at .

Today is the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day. It's a time to recognize and celebrate the traditions, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions at this time of year. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.

Looking to learn more?

You can join Caldwell First Nation at Northwest Beach at Point Pelee National Park today, June 21, from 10 am to 4 pm for a Solidarity Day and Summer Solstice event.

It’s back!

Starting today, and other sites will have free admission until September 7, 2026! So, there is no better time to connect with Canada’s history.

Check out our calendar of events to learn more:
https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/malden/activ/calendrier-calendar

Please note that some events and programs may still have special event fees.

As part of the Canada String Pass, Parks Canada is also offering a 25% discount on camping fees at applicable sites. For more info: https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/conseils-tips/choisis-canada-choose/admission-camping

: June 18, 1812 – United States Declared War on Great Britain therefore “Canada”.

When Britain’s struggle against France in the Napoleonic Wars led to a maritime blockade, tensions rose due to actions against American ships. The Americans accused the British of infringing upon free trade on the high seas and the impressment of American citizens into the Royal Navy. Some claimed the British supported Indigenous resistance against American westward expansion.

American president James Madison signed a declaration of war against Britain. American war plans focused on what was thought to be the easiest place to hit the British: their colony Canada.

Celebrate Canada’s Birthday with right here at !

Our Canada Day celebration will feature cannons, cupcakes, live music, and more.

And better yet, admission is free!

The Canada Strong Pass returns on Friday!

Enjoy free admission at and other locations from June 19 to September 7, 2026.

Please note that certain programs and special events may still have fees.

Take me to the river, because today is !

sits on the banks of the Detroit River. The river’s name comes from the French settlers who named it the Rivière du Détroit (meaning the "River of the Strait").

The river has always played a key role in the history of the surrounding region and even of Canada itself. During the War of 1812 and the Rebellions of 1837 and 1838, the Detroit River region was a key site of confrontation, hosting numerous battles on both sides of the mighty river.

REMINDER: is closed today for set-up for the medieval faire!

Note: the fort will not be offering its regular programming while the faire is taking place this weekend.

For tickets and inquiries about this third-party event: https://faires.ca/fortmalden

See you tomorrow!

June is National Indigenous History Month.

Indigenous allies were crucial to British forces in the War of 1812.

For example, during the Battle of Queenston Heights Kanyen’kehà:ka (Mohawk) leader, Teyoninhokarawen (John Norton), led an indigenous force over the escarpment and engaged the enemy, allowing for the recapture of the position.

Likewise, Tecumseh’s Confederacy included First Nations such as the Shawnee, Potawatomi, Ojibwa, Odawa, Delaware, Winnebago, Wyandot, and Kickapoo. The presence of these warriors was essential to the capture of Detroit in August of 1812.

Indigenous forces also played key roles in the capture of Fort Mackinac, the Battle of Beaver Dams, and many others.

Learn more about Indigenous contributions to the war effort on your next visit to the museum at Fort Malden: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/malden/visit