During the summer and on holidays, the skies over Peterborough and the Kawarthas seem to come alive with bright bursts of colours.
For generations, fireworks have marked significant community moments like Canada Day, summer festivals, and lakeside gatherings. Their colour and excitement symbolize togetherness and celebration.
But today, many residents are beginning to question what’s left behind after the smoke clears.
Fireworks may last only minutes, but their effects can linger much longer.
Studies show that metal residues such as barium, copper, and strontium settle into nearby soil and waterways after each display. These substances affect aquatic ecosystems such as fish and other plants, and can even accumulate in human bodies.
The noise, while thrilling for spectators, can cause distress for birds, pets, and wildlife.
Clinical psychologist Megan Anna Neff also notes that for people with sensory sensitivities, the intensity of fireworks can quickly lead to overwhelm and stress.
All of this, along with the added fire risk that fireworks can present during increasingly dry summer seasons, is beginning to change public attitudes.
A recent survey of the Kennisis Lake Cottagers’ Association in the Kawarthas reflected this shift. Nearly half of respondents said they were less enthusiastic about fireworks than they were five years ago, citing environmental and community concerns.
“People still want to gather and celebrate,” says one survey participant, “but many are looking for quieter, cleaner alternatives that still feel special.”
That’s where community creativity can come in. Around the world, including Ontario, people are experimenting with creative options that can still keep the spirit of celebration alive.
Alternatives like drone light shows, laser displays, and low-noise pyrotechnics are increasingly being used to replace or supplement traditional fireworks.
The drone shows, for example, use synchronized LED-equipped drones to create vivid patterns in the night sky without smoke or debris. While still a new technology, these shows are becoming more accessible and can be powered by renewable energy.
Another emerging option is community light festivals such as those held this year in the City of Pickering and in Toronto’s Distillery District Christmas market, where residents participated in tree lighting, projection art, and musical performances that highlighted the local creativity rather than combustion. These events not only reduce pollution, but also support local artists and businesses.
As with any change, education and engagement are essential.
Sharing facts about the environmental and health impacts of fireworks, and highlighting successful examples of greener alternatives can help to build public support. Families, residents, and business owners can all be part of the solution by voicing their interest in new approaches and volunteering to support pilot projects.
Municipalities and community groups can play a key role in this transition by hosting an eco-friendly light festival or integrating sustainability commitments into event planning.
By showcasing different alternatives through workshops, public outreach, and hands-on demonstrations, change can feel not just feel possible, but exciting.
Community members too can play a key role in this transition by asking event organizers to explore safer celebration options, sourcing local expertise, and providing feedback.
Transitioning away from fireworks doesn’t have to mean giving up the excitement of shared spectacle. It can mean redefining celebration through a sustainability lens — one that respects lakes, forests, and species as well as tradition.
As many communities continue to lead in local environmental action, reimagining celebrations offers an opportunity to align joy with sustainability. The next time the community gathers to mark a milestone, perhaps the lights above won’t just sparkle, they’ll reflect a shared commitment to a cleaner, quieter, and more connected future.
Learn more about taking local, sustainable action at greenup.on.ca or follow GreenUP on social media @ptbogreenup.
