Fireworks are mostly summer weekends and holidays.

Yes, the illumination schedule changes with the seasons because it follows sunset. The lights are on every night of the year, but the start time shifts — earlier in winter (around 5-6 PM), later in summer (closer to 9-10 PM). You can look it up online for the exact time on your visit date, but count on about 30-45 minutes after sunset for the full effect.

Fireworks are a different story. The big shows run Fridays and Sundays from late May through early September, plus Canada Day (July 1) and maybe New Year’s Eve. There’s also a special winter fireworks series some years around the holidays. If you’re going outside of summer, don’t expect fireworks. The falls themselves are still lit — just no booms.

Weather can also cancel fireworks. Wind, rain, fog — they’ll pull the plug. No backup date. So check the official Niagara Parks site the day of your visit. That’s your only reliable source.