Bradford West Gwillimbury is making waves—literally—as it prepares to host its first-ever Flotilla Parade on Saturday, September 28, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Holland Marsh. This unique water-based event invites residents and visitors to grab a paddle, decorate their canoes or kayaks, and join a floating procession through one of Ontario’s most agriculturally significant landscapes.
“This isn’t your everyday parade,” said Mayor James Leduc. “It’s a celebration of our heritage, our community, and the engineering marvel that is the Holland Marsh.”
From Vision to Voyage
The idea for the flotilla came from Ian Craig, longtime organizer of the annual Marsh Mash. With support from Councillors Peter Ferragine and Ben Verkaik, a committee was formed to bring the concept to life. The result: a community-powered paddle that will launch from the Portuguese Cultural Centre at 11 a.m., following speeches from local dignitaries.
Listen below to our interview with Mayor Leduc, it begins at the 42:14 mark (but feel free to listen to the entire podcast!)
Participants will travel west along the canal toward the Highway 11 bridge, then turn north into Morris Drain, where a mini-celebration awaits. Along the route, historical banners will tell the story of the Marsh and its transformation into the “Salad Bowl of Canada.”
Honouring a Century of Agricultural Innovation
The Holland Marsh’s roots run deep—literally. First envisioned in 1909 and officially dug in 1925, the Marsh was engineered by William H. Day and cultivated by Dutch farmers who turned its rich muck soil into a powerhouse of produce. Today, it generates hundreds of millions in GDP for Ontario, growing over 60 varieties of vegetables, including carrots, onions, celery, lettuce, and radishes.
All Aboard: How to Join the Flotilla
Registration is available at www.townofbwg.com. While pre-registration is encouraged, walk-ups will be welcomed on the day of the event. Participants will receive commemorative t-shirts and flags, and are encouraged to decorate their vessels for the occasion.
Clubs from Barrie and Muskoka are expected to join, including war canoes and traditional Indigenous trading vessels. Dignitaries such as MPP Caroline Mulroney and MP Scott Davidson have been invited to attend.
Celebrate the Marsh, Celebrate the Community
Spectators can cheer on the flotilla from several vantage points, including Marshview at Morris Drain and other spots along the canal route.
“This is a once-in-a-century moment,” said Mayor Leduc. “We want families, paddlers, and history lovers to come out and be part of something truly special.”
