‘Spectacular fireworks’ and ‘unforgettable’ live music promised for Canada Day party at Mississauga’s Celebration Square

Live entertainment, family activities, food and what Mississauga officials promise will be a “spectacular fireworks finale” are all part of the Canada Day party taking place on Saturday, July 1 at Celebration Square in the city’s downtown core.

The singers/musicians will be performing throughout the afternoon and evening, the food trucks will be on-site and open for business and Square One Shopping Centre has planned giveaways for party-goers, City of Mississauga officials say of the annual Canada Day bash in the square.

The food truck market is being presented in partnership with Night Market Toronto.

The Canada Day event runs from 4 to 10:30 p.m. and admission is free for all ages.

“The main stage kicks off with Mississauga’s own Aqyila and her TikTok viral summer vibes,” party planners at the City say. “Then, pop-rock star on the rise MICO hits the stage with his catchy lyrics and hype melodies and Canadian favourite Jamie Fine is on (stage), bringing her iconic vocals and platinum hits. The show ends with an unforgettable headline performance by pop powerhouse Faouzia.”

Following is a timetable of Canada Day events at Celebration Square:

• 4 p.m.–SaugaLive Stage featuring diverse sounds and styles of music in Canada and around the world
• 4:30 p.m.–Official Opening Ceremony
• 5:30 p.m.–Aqyila performs
• 6:30 p.m.–MICO performs
• 7:45 p.m.–Jamie Fine performs
• 9 p.m.–headliner Faouzia performs
• 10:05 p.m.–Fireworks show, presented by Tim Hortons

A host of activities for kids and families is also planned for the day. From 4 to 7 p.m., kids can get their pictures taken with favourite Treehouse TV characters including Peppa Pig, Bluey and the Care Bears.

A giant interactive mural, face painting, roaming entertainers, various other activities and splash time in the square’s fountain are all on tap as well.

For road closures and other information, visit the Canada Day celebration page.

Mississauga R&B artist Taahira Aquiyla Duff, known to fans as Aqyila, is trying to build on the success of her viral debut release, “Vibe for Me (Bob for Me).”

Released earlier this year, it garnered more than 10 million streams worldwide and landed Aqyila her first Juno Award nomination for Contemporary R&B Recording of the Year.

Canada Day headliner Faouzia, 22, is an accomplished singer-songwriter and instrumentalist in the genres of pop, R&B, synth and acoustic pop best known for her track “Tears of Gold.”

The Moroccan-Canadian musician has described her music as “emotional” and “intense.” She has released several singles and collaborated with various musicians on vocals and songwriting prior to releasing her debut EP, Stripped, in late 2020.

Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande and Beyonce are among her many influences.

Last year, after a two-year absence due to COVID-19, the colourful fireworks celebrations returned to Celebration Square and other locations across Mississauga.

With the City looking to rework its fireworks bylaws, it’s not yet clear where other, if any, large-scale fireworks displays will take place on Canada Day.