Summer Spectacular: Ontario Festivals and Events
July 7, 2023
This summer, communities across the province come alive with a kaleidoscope of festivals and events. From music festivals to outdoor movie screenings and cultural family fun, it’s the perfect time to make memories and discover new horizons. Here are our suggestions.
Oakville
Movies in the Park, Wednesdays, July 19 to August 30
Movies in the Park is a family-focused film series taking place on Wednesday evenings from July 19 to August 30. Held in parks throughout Oakville, the series presents curated programming followed by film screenings – to bring neighbours together, entertain, and educate. Find movie schedule and details here.
Ottawa
Ottawa Asian Festival Night Market, July 21 to 23
Since its inception in 2015, this three day food festival has become a major cultural event in the region, attracting an audience of over 50,000 attendees. Celebrating culture and cuisine, it shares the best of the region’s Asian community, featuring K-pop dancers, musicians, street food chefs, and a fun atmosphere reminiscent of an authentic Asian Night Market.
See more of Ottawa with our ON Culture Guide
Milton
Milton African and Multicultural Festival, August 12
Organized by Akwaba Cultural Exchange, this inclusive and family-oriented celebration showcases the tapestry of cultures within the town. Taking place at various locations throughout Milton, the festival offers a vibrant lineup of performances, including Jahkettle, Toronto Burundi Drummers and Meep Moop – plus interactive dance workshops, storytelling sessions, hands-on arts and crafts activities, and an abundance of food options to savour.
See more of Milton with our ON Culture Guide
Mississauga
Bollywood Monster Mashup, July 21 to 22
This free family-friendly South Asian festival is the largest of its kind in Canada. It features performances by Bollywood stars, engaging arts activities, and a spectacular laser show. A highlight of this event is the delicious South Asian cuisine – a mouthwatering array of samosas, dosas, kebabs, and more.
Peterborough
Peterborough Musicfest, July 1 to Aug 19
This annual summer festival, which began in 1987, has become a beloved tradition. Taking place on the shores of picturesque Little Lake, its goal is to celebrate music, nature, and community. From July 1- August 19, visit Del Crary Park every Wednesday and Saturday for free concerts featuring a lineup of local and international acts.
See more of Peterborough with our ON Culture Guide
Port Hope
Port Hope Arts Festival, August 12
On August 12, downtown Port Hope will transform into an arts destination, with installations gracing shop windows, and ten-minute plays staged at different outdoor spots. Enjoy cinema under the stars with two outdoor movies in Memorial Park, visit food vendors, and participate in family friendly art activities.
Thunder Bay
Live on the Waterfront, Wednesdays, July 19 to Aug 31
Live on the Waterfront is an award-winning festival that unfolds on Wednesdays during the summer season (July 19 to August 31). Taking place at the picturesque Prince Arthur’s Landing, the festival offers scenery, live music from local favourites, artisans, food, and more. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, and join in the celebration of community spirit.
See more of Thunder Bay with our ON Culture Guide.
Toronto
SummerSeries in Trillium Park, July 1 to Sept 3
Trillium Park’s SummerSeries offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy free concerts along Toronto’s waterfront. The series showcases a lineup of festival weekends, including the Small World Music Festival, It’s OK* World – Music and Film Festival, Indigenous Sounds Now, City Hall Live, Wavelength Summer Thing, Summer Live Music Festival, and The Academy Presents. Plus, join in free yoga classes as part of the series.
See more of Toronto with our ON Culture Guide
West Nipissing
River & Sky, July 20 to 23
River & Sky is a multi-day music and camping festival in Northern Ontario, with a focus on inclusivity, community and sustainability. The event features bands such as the Sadies and Clerel on multiple stages, plus installation art and artists throughout the site. Bring your own tent, trailer – or rent a limited number of Glamp sites!
Windsor
Windsor Essex Pride Fest, August 8 to 12
Celebrate love, diversity, and acceptance at Windsor Essex Pride Fest this August. Experience incredible local theatre, music, art, and entertainment that raises awareness of the challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Windsor Essex.
See more of Windsor with our ON Culture Guide