WELCOME to the City of Welland, one of the truly authentic canal cities in Canada. Located on the banks of the Welland Recreational Waterway (Old Welland Canal) in the heart of Niagara Region, Welland is almost mid-way between Great Lakes Erie and Ontario.

Each year, visitors are attracted to the area’s natural beauty as they enjoy our year-round sports competitions and outdoor events, annual festivals, waterfront music concerts, and multi-cultural attractions. 

As you travel our streets, look for the many landmarks and heritage buildings that are captured in the remarkable murals displayed throughout the City.

The City of Welland has been home to many major sporting events, including the Canadian National Canoe and Kayak Championships, the Ontario Open Rowing Masters and the Canadian National Rowing Championships at our International Flatwater Centre. We are also the proud host of the Little NHL Hockey Tournament, the Paperweight Lacrosse Tournament, the Niagara Dragon Boat Festival, BHI Ball Hockey International, the Welland Triathlon and literally hundreds of tournaments for soccer, baseball, basketball, volleyball, curling, gymnastics, tennis and many more.

Outdoor enthusiasts marvel at the beauty and serenity of Merritt Island – a natural paradise located steps from downtown, between the Welland Recreational Waterway and the Welland River. Here visitors and residents alike enjoy walking, hiking, cycling, rollerblading or simply picnicking in the park. Visitors can also rent canoes, kayaks and paddle boats and take a leisurely cruise along the waterway.

Throughout the summer and fall, the downtown core comes alive with some of Ontario’s finest festivals and outdoor concerts. The newly-created IlluminAqua is an event like no other in Canada – a blend of art, culture and the elements of fire and water. IlluminAqua features musical performances on a floating stage amid the splendour of firepods along the waterway. Vendors and buskers round out the entertainment on land.

The Welland Rose Festival kicks off the summer season in June, while the sweet sounds music fill the air from May-August during the Welland Community Wellness Centre Music Series. The Region’s “Tastiest Party” caps off the season in October when the Niagara Food Festival holds its annual celebration of wine, cooking and fantastic food in historic downtown Welland.

Visit www.welland.ca for information on our restaurants, accommodations, and special events. Enjoy your visit!