Mississippi Mills Fire Department to Host 114th EOFA Games in Pakenham on Saturday, June 20

The Village of Pakenham will be buzzing with excitement this Saturday, June 20 as the Mississippi Mills Fire Department (MMFD) welcomes hundreds of firefighters for the 114th Eastern Ontario Firefighters Association (EOFA) Games – one of the longest-running and most storied firefighter competitions in Canada.

Fire departments from across Eastern Ontario will go head-to-head in a full day of high-intensity events designed to showcase the strength, teamwork, precision and problem-solving skills required on the fireground. Spectators can expect to see everything from hose coupling challenges and ladder climbs to bunker gear relays, bucket brigades and the crowd-favourite Chiefs Race, where fire chiefs get their moment to shine. 

The Games will be held off Margaret Street, behind the Stewart Community Centre, with free admission for all attendees. The opening ceremony is set for 8:30 a.m., with competition beginning at 9 a.m.

“Hosting these Games is a chance to celebrate the dedication, teamwork and community spirit that define our fire service, while also showcasing everything our department has to offer,” said Mike Williams, MMFD Fire Chief. “To all the competitors, thank you for your commitment to training and public safety. To the families and volunteers who make events like this possible, we’re grateful for your support.”

Beyond the competition, visitors can enjoy food vendors, kids’ activities and purchase official EOFA Games merchandise. Guests are also encouraged to explore Pakenham’s charming shops, eateries and local attractions. 

Following the day’s events, the traditional parade of departments will begin at 7 p.m., with participants lining up at 6:30 p.m. on McWatty Road, near the Pakenham Highlands Golf Club. The 1.6-km parade route will travel:

• Left onto County Road 29
• Right onto Renfrew Street
• Right onto MacFarlane Street
• Left onto Jessie Street
• Right onto Margaret Street, finishing at the racetrack

Residents and visitors are encouraged to line the streets and cheer on the departments.

The awards ceremony will take place at 8 p.m. at the judges’ stage, followed by live music from Small Town Socials at 9 p.m. inside the Stewart Community Centre. This portion of the evening is a ticketed event and admission is set at $10 per person. 

“Events like this remind us how fortunate we are to live in communities where people show up for each other, whether in moments of celebration or challenge,” said Mississippi Mills Mayor Christa Lowry. “Our Mississippi Mills Fire Department embodies that commitment every single day, and this weekend offers a meaningful opportunity to recognize the dedication of firefighters from across Eastern Ontario who share that same spirit of service.”

Come celebrate the people who protect our communities and celebrate the camaraderie and tradition that define the EOFA Games. 

-30-

For more information:

Ashley Kulp
Communications Coordinator
613-256-2064
akulp@mississippimills.ca