Kingston 
Fort Henry’s iconic Sunset Ceremony is returning for the 2025 season, offering an unforgettable experience on select evenings in August.
Credit: Fort Henry
The Sunset Ceremony is a captivating display of military precision, featuring disciplined marching manoeuvres, rifle drill, military music, cannon firing, and a dazzling fireworks finale. Inside the historic limestone walls of Fort Henry National Historic Site, guests are transported back in time as they witness the Fort Henry Guard’s impressive military music and drill sequences.
The featured performers for this year’s event include the Drums of the Fort Henry Guard, Drill Squad of the Fort Henry Guard and Artillery Detachments of the Fort Henry Guard.
The Sunset Ceremony takes place in Fort Henry’s Parade Square, a site steeped in history. Built between 1832 and 1837 as a vital part of the defense network for the Rideau Canal and Kingston harbour, Fort Henry was garrisoned by British soldiers until 1870. After being abandoned by Canadian troops in 1891, the fort underwent restoration in 1936 and was opened as a living history museum in 1938. Today, it stands as a National Historic Site, welcoming millions of visitors seeking a glimpse into 19th-century military life.
The shows are scheduled for August 1, 8, 15, 22, starting at 7:00 p.m. and running for approximately 1.5 hours.
In addition to the breathtaking performance, a variety of food and beverage options will be available to enhance the experience. Visitors can choose from several food and retail options at the venue, including snacks and beverages at the Canteen and Commissariat Store, alcoholic drinks from The Caesar Company, and treats at Mrs. Henry’s Treat Shop. Battery Bistro offers reservation-only dining. No outside food or beverages are allowed on-site.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance, including for children aged 0–4, who attend free with lap seating. All sales are final and non-transferable. In case of severe weather, updates will be posted via Fort Henry’s social media and email.
General Admission ranges from $14 to $20 and includes first-come, first-served bleacher seating. Premium Balcony tickets cost $50 (ages 5+), offering reserved elevated seating and a complimentary cookie. Limited cushions are available for rent. Accessibility seating is permitted.
Guests requiring assistance can avail the accessibility shuttle on a first-come, first-served basis to access the Lower Fort before and after the show. Parking is available at no charge on-site for added convenience.
August Long Weekend in Ontario
Things to Do During August in Ontario
Trip Planning — Sunset Ceremony
When: Experience the awe-inspiring performance of Fort Henry’s Sunset Ceremony, where the talented Fort Henry Guard commands the Parade Square with their impressive talent and military precision. Prepare to be captivated by their disciplined marching manoeuvres, mesmerized by their rifle drill, military music and cannon firing as the evening culminates in a breathtaking fireworks finale.
When: August 1, 8, 15, 22, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM (approx. 1.5 hours)
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Where:
Fort Henry National Historic Site, 1 Fort Henry Dr, Kingston, ON K7K 5G8
How Much:
Adult (19-64): $20.00
Senior (65+): $18.00
Student (13-18): $16.00
Youth (5-12): $14.00
Child (0-4): Free
