Canada’s culture, history and natural beauty come to life in its festivals. From coast to coast, the country has a plethora of festivals that reflect its multiculturalism and natural splendor.
Whether you’re a music lover, foodie or adventure seeker, there’s a Canadian festival for you. Here are the must see festivals that showcase the best of Canada.
1. Calgary Stampede (Calgary, Alberta)
Called “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” the Calgary Stampede is a 10 day rodeo extravaganza. Held every July, the event features rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, a midway, live music and food. It’s a true Canadian experience that attracts visitors from around the world.
2. Winterlude (Ottawa, Ontario)
Get into the winter spirit in Canada’s capital with Winterlude, a festival all about snow and ice. Held in February the event features ice sculptures, skating on the Rideau Canal (the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink) and activities for all ages. It’s the ultimate winter experience.
3. Just for Laughs (Montreal, Quebec)
Comedy lovers won’t want to miss Just for Laughs, the world’s largest comedy festival. Held in July this Montreal based event features top comedians, up-and-comers and street performers. From stand-up to improv it’s a laugh riot.
4. Celebration of Light (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Every summer Vancouver lights up the night sky during the Celebration of Light, an international fireworks competition. Held over three nights in late July the event features pyrotechnic displays synchronized to music viewed from beaches and parks around the city. It’s a showstopper for all ages.
5. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) (Toronto, Ontario)
Film buffs head to Toronto every September for TIFF, one of the biggest film festivals in the world. With international and Canadian films, celebrity appearances and exclusive events TIFF is the ultimate cinematic experience.
6. Festival d’Été de Québec (Quebec City, Quebec)
This 11 day music festival in July turns Quebec City into a musical wonderland. With international superstars and local talent the festival features performances across multiple venues including outdoor stages set against the historic backdrop of Old Quebec.
7. PEI International Shellfish Festival (Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island)
Seafood fans rejoice! The PEI International Shellfish Festival celebrates the island’s famous shellfish every September. Live cooking demos, oyster shucking contests and plenty of seafood in a charming maritime setting.
8. Caribana (Toronto, Ontario)
Caribana now known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is North America’s largest cultural celebration of Caribbean culture. Held in late July and early August the festival features a colourful parade, live music and Caribbean cuisine, a taste of the islands in the heart of Toronto.
9. Stratford Festival (Stratford, Ontario)
For theatre enthusiasts the Stratford Festival is a must see. Running from April to October this world class festival is all about Shakespearean plays and other classical and contemporary works. It’s a cultural experience that attracts audiences from around the world.
10. Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous (Whitehorse, Yukon)
Go back in time to the Gold Rush era with the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous. Held in February this oddball festival features axe-throwing and log-sawing competitions, live music and local food. A one of a kind northern Canadian experience.
Festival Tips
- Book Early: Popular festivals sell out so book tickets and accommodations in advance.
- Dress for the Weather: Canada’s weather is crazy so check the forecast and pack accordingly.
- Get Involved: Try the activities and food to get the full experience.
Canada’s festivals are a window into the country’s culture, nature and communities. Whether you’re skating on ice, laughing at a comedy show or eating fresh seafood these festivals will create lifelong memories. Book now.
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Credit for pictures:
Michel Rathwell from Cornwall, Canada, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
By WikiPedant – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=59787491
FEQ Communication, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons