Port Colborne announces details of Top Hat ceremony to open Welland Canal for 2026 season

Port Colborne will be celebrating the opening of the Welland Canal's 2026 shipping season this weekend

The city's annual 'Top Hat' ceremony will be held at Lock 8 Gateway Park on Sunday morning at 9. Mayor Bill Steele will greet the captain of the first vessel and present them with the martime tradition of a top hat to mark their journey.

Members of the community are also invited to attend a free breakfast before the ceremony at 8, hosted by the Port Colborne Fair Trade Committee. 

(Written by: DJ Blokzyl)