Dry conditions have forced the cancellation of the fireworks display at this weekend's Rideau Canal Festival, as Ottawa firefighters say a city-wide burn ban remains in effect through the long weekend.

Ottawa Fire Services said despite recent rainfall the region is too hot and dry and has temporarily suspended all public fireworks displays within the city limits because of the potential for grass or brush fires.

The city's fireworks by-law already prohibits the use of fireworks for residents outside of the Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends.

Fire officials are also advising residents to be extra cautious when cooking outdoors and ensure that barbeques are not left unattended and that smouldering material like charcoal is completely extinguished with water. A city-wide ban on public fireworks displays remains in effect for the August long weekend. (CBC)

Rideau Canal Festival spokesman Michel Gauthier said he is not surprised by the cancellation given conditions in the region, but said the festival will go on.

"It means Saturday night we will have the night flotilla... but unfortunately we will not be able to finish it off with the fireworks," said Gauthier.

"But this is a UNESCO site, I don't think we'd want to do anything to damage it, we want to celebrate the 180th anniversary of the canal," he said.

Gatineau fireworks show still on

Across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Que., Casino de Lac-Leamy's Sound of Light fireworks display is going ahead as scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Saturday night.

Organizer Anny Spooner said since the fireworks are launched from the middle of Lac Leamy, there is less risk of fire.

"Our main concern is the grounds are very dry, but we're more concerned with smokers leaving left-over cigarettes, and we're going to be vigilant and equipped for it," said Spooner.

Organizers with the casino event are also making sure they have extra fire extinguishers on hand for the event.