DUNNVILLE, ON – May 2, 2025 — As anticipation builds for the 49th annual Mudcat Festival, the Dunnville Chamber of Commerce and festival committee are calling on the community to help protect one of the event’s most iconic traditions: The Fireworks on the Grand.
Held each June along the beautiful Grand River, the Mudcat Festival is a cherished celebration of community, culture, and fun—featuring fan favourites like the Kidz Fishing Derby, Car Show, Midway, Kids Zone and the Music on the Grand. But for many, the emotional high point comes at the very end of the day of Live Music: a breathtaking fireworks display that reflects off the river, lighting up the sky and the faces of everyone watching from the shore.
“It’s that shared moment of awe, unity, and hometown pride that makes the Fireworks on the Grand so special,” says Rebecca Booth, President of the Dunnville Chamber of Commerce. “We know it’s something our community looks forward to year after year—but many don’t realize just how much effort and cost goes into making it happen.”
Each year, the fireworks show costs between $32,000 and $40,000, covering transportation, safety planning, specialized staff, and execution. To ensure the future of this grand finale, the Chamber is introducing a new year-round initiative: The Fireworks Fund.
Ways the Community Can Get Involved:
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💥 Donate Anytime: A donation button is now available on the Chamber’s website. Every contribution—big or small—helps.
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🎭 Attend a Fundraiser: The Chamber is partnering with Dunnville Community Theatre for a Murder Mystery Fundraiser Dinner to support the fund.
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💰 Drop Spare Change Locally: Donation jars will be placed at select Chamber member businesses, inspired by community feedback.
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🔁 Track Our Progress: Quarterly updates will be shared at dunnvillechamber.com, showing how funds are growing and where they’re making an impact.
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💡 Share Your Ideas: Community members are encouraged to pitch in with their own fundraising ideas and help shape the campaign.
Businesses interested in sponsoring any part of the Mudcat Festival are also encouraged to reach out. All sponsorships help keep the festival thriving, and funds beyond event-specific needs may be directed to fireworks support to ensure full festival success.
“This is more than just about one night of fireworks,” adds Booth. “It’s about preserving the magic of a community coming together. With everyone’s help, we can keep that spark alive—literally and figuratively—for years to come.”
To donate or get involved, visit:
🌐 www.dunnvillechamber.com
📩 Contact: info@dunnvillechamberofcommerce.com
About the Dunnville Chamber of Commerce
The Dunnville Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, member-driven organization committed to fostering a vibrant local economy. We support businesses of all sizes through advocacy, networking, promotion, and community engagement. Our mission is to cultivate meaningful connections and champion growth across Dunnville and the surrounding region.
Learn more at www.dunnvillechamber.com or contact us at info@dunnvillechamberofcommerce.com.