Extreme weather cancels east London Canada Day gathering, downtown festivities still set to go

(Reta Ismail/CTV News London)

The Optimist Club of East London and the Argyle Business Improvement Area have cancelled the planned Canada Day celebration at the East Lions Community Centre because of extreme weather conditions forecast for Wednesday.

Organizers said the decision was made out of concern for public safety and to ensure the facility remains available to support residents during the heat event.

The East Lions Community Centre is serving as a cooling centre for the area, and organizers said they do not want event activities to limit access for those seeking relief from the extreme temperatures.

“We regretfully have cancelled our celebration at the East Lions Community Centre due to the extreme weather warnings,” organizers said in a statement. “The East Lions Community Centre is also a cooling centre for the area, and we do not want to take up that space for those in need.”

The Optimist Club of East London and the Argyle BIA thanked the community for its understanding and encouraged residents to prioritize their health and safety during the heat warning.

Canada Day road closures

Londoners going downtown for Canada Day are encouraged to plan their route and drive carefully or consider walking, cycling or taking transit.

Tuesday, June 30

• Dundas Street between Ridout Street and Richmond Street
• Talbot Street between King Street and Carling Street

Wednesday, July 1

• Dundas Street between Ridout Street and Richmond Street
• Talbot Street between King Street and Carling Street
• Queens Avenue from Ridout Street North to Riverside Drive and Wharncliffe Road North
• Ridout Street North from Fullarton Street to King Street
• Thames Street from Dundas Street to Harris Park Gate
• Queen’s Bridge and Kensington Bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic starting at 8 p.m.

Parking information

Londoners driving downtown for the fireworks can park at one of the City’s municipal parking lots nearby Harris Park, including Municipal Lots 12, 21, 6 and 20. On-street parking meters are free of charge on Wednesday.