County of Brant Approves Inclusion of Diwali and Lunar New Year for Fireworks Celebrations

By Chris Whelan

In a significant move towards fostering diversity and inclusivity, County of Brant councillors have voted in favour of adding Diwali and Lunar New Year to the list of days when residents can set off fireworks, marking a progressive development in the county's policies.

The current bylaw permits fireworks displays for Victoria Day and Canada Day, encompassing a three-day period before and after both holidays.

The proposed amendment, scheduled for council approval on Sept. 24, will designate one day each for Diwali and Lunar New Year, which includes the widely celebrated Chinese New Year.

Diwali, a five-day Hindu festival of lights observed in the fall, and Lunar New Year, typically falling between mid-January and midFebruary, are both based on the lunar calendar, leading to varying dates annually. The specific permissible day for each festival will be confirmed by the fire chief and prominently displayed on the county website, as outlined in the amended bylaw.

In addition to the fireworks display, licensed vendors will be authorized to sell fireworks during the six days preceding the designated dates for Diwali and Lunar New Year, enhancing accessibility to celebratory materials for residents.

The decision to formally include these cultural celebrations aligns with the county's core values of equality, diversity, and inclusion, as emphasized by Greg Bergeron, the county's director of enforcement and regulatory services, during the council session.

The initiative stemmed from public requests, prompting county staff to review the existing bylaw earlier this year and recommend the incorporation of Diwali and Lunar New Year into the festive calendar.

Commending the move as a "great step in the right direction”, Councillor Lukas Oakley acknowledged that the broader debate on whether fireworks should be restricted to individual use or organized county events remains a topic for future consideration.

residents regarding the impact of fireworks on farm animals, pets, and instances of irresponsible use while under the influence, Councillor John MacAlpine highlighted the importance of responsible fireworks handling.

The amended bylaw stipulates prohibitions on specific types of fireworks, including firecrackers, exploding matches, cherry bombs, and battle-sky rockets, even on the designated celebration days.

Notably, other municipalities in Ontario such as Ajax, Mississauga, and London have already extended permission for fireworks displays on Diwali and Lunar New Year, reflecting a broader trend towards cultural inclusivity and celebration within the region