Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit if Crystal Beach is your goal — the lake water is warm by July and the beach is at its best. Old Fort Erie runs its full program of living history demonstrations during summer. The Friendship Festival takes place over Canada Day (July 1) and Fourth of July weekend, when both sides of the border celebrate together.
The shoulder seasons (May, September) are pleasant and less crowded. Fort Erie races typically run from May to October. Winter is quiet and offers little beyond the slots facility.