Summer Event Guide across Canada

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Summer is the best time to explore the vast reaches of Canada. From Vancouver to St. John's and at all points in between, Canadian cities offer up a wealth of summertime fun. History, music, theatre, events for the family: they're all represented nationwide between June and Labour Day (September 2).


VICTORIA

ICA Folkfest (June 28 - July 6, 2003)
Buskers from around the world come together to line Victoria's Inner Harbour in this nine-day spirited festival of music, dance, food, crafts, and entertainment. This is an interactive adventure guaranteed to take you and the whole family on an unforgettable multicultural journey.
Web site: www.folkfest.com


Butchart Gardens 2003 Fireworks (June 28 - August 30, Saturday evenings)
Enjoy Butchart Gardens set to music and spectacular Saturday night Fireworks. This season offers a whole new show that is guaranteed to take your breath away. Bring warm clothes, as well as something comfortable to sit on.
Web site: www.butchartgardens.com


Shakespeare Festival (July 11 - August 17, 2003)
Take yourself back a few centuries as you enjoy the works of the great master. This year, the Shakespeare Festival is pleased to present Twelfth Night, The Merchant of Venice, as well as the ever-popular The Tempest.
Web site: www.islandnet.com/~tinconnu/shakespeare.html

WHISTLER

Whistler Jazz and Blues Weekend (June 13 to 15, 2003)
The breathtaking scenery of Whistler provides the perfect backdrop for this springtime jazz festival. Indoor and outdoor venues showcase a multitude of jazz stylings.
Web site: www.mywhistler.com/to_do/events/jazzfest_2003.asp


Whistler Daily Street Entertainment (July 3 to August 28, 2003)
All summer long, visitors to Whistler can enjoy the off-the-wall entertainment provided by various professional street entertainers. Non-stop family fun.
Web site: www.findwhistler.com/page.cfm/2055


Whistler Summer Gravity Festival (July 14 to 20, 2003)
Whistler's new mountain biking festival showcases the world's best riders in seven days of high adrenaline downhill, Freeride, x-country and village events.
Web site: www.whistlergravity.com

VANCOUVER

Bard on the Beach (June 11 to September 21, 2003)
This professional Shakespeare Festival is held in the heart of the city in beautiful English Bay. The 2003 festival will present three performances, the Comedy of Errors, the Merchant of Venice and Pericles, Prince of Tyre.
Web site: www.bardonthebeach.org


17th Annual Vancouver International Comedy Festival (July 24 to August 4, 2003)
This celebration of laughter features an eclectic mixture of international comic artists. Performances take place on outdoor stages throughout the city, as well as in some of the best pubs and bars on Granville Island.
Web site: www.comedyfest.com


Molson Indy Vancouver (July 25 to 27, 2003)
The Molson Indy is often described as the "fastest event of the summer". The 2003 race promises to be no slower! The Molson Indy roars with fast cars and off-track action.
Web site: www.molsonindy.com


2003 HSBC PowerSmart Celebration of Light (July 30, August 2, 6, and 9, 2003)
Join thousands of people on the Vancouver waterfront to watch this astounding show. 2003 features a competition between the Czech Republic, China and Canada and a grand finale on Aug 9. The whole celebration is choreographed to music.
Web site: www.celebration-of-light.com


Festival Vancouver (August 4 to17, 2003)
This pre-eminent music event will present fifty concerts in 14 days. From morning until midnight, festival patrons will experience glorious voices, exhilarating rhythms and great chamber/orchestral works, performed by internationally acclaimed artists.
Web site: www.festivalvancouver.bc.ca


CALGARY

Calgary Stampeders Football (June to November, 2003)
The Calgary Stampeders Canadian Football League season runs from June to November, 2003. Visit the team's official Web site for home game scheduling and ticket information.
Web site: www.stampeders.com


Jazz Festival Calgary (June 18 to 28, 2003)
This annual kaleidoscope of critically acclaimed music includes main stage concerts, club events, and free outdoor performances.
Web site: www.jazzfestivalcalgary.ca


Shakespeare in the Park (July 1 to August 24, 2003)
Shakespeare in the Park has established a tradition of accessible and top-quality entertainment. For 16 years the Festival has been committed to presenting the classics in an informal outdoor setting, simulating the immediacy and exuberance of Shakespeare's own era. This year features King Henry IV and Love's Labour Lost.
Web site: www.mtroyal.ab.ca/conservatory


Calgary Stampede (July 4 to 13, 2003)
Calgary's most popular tourist attraction includes a rodeo, a midway, concerts, chuck wagon races, and much more in this unique tribute to cowboy culture. Celebrate cowboy style and see why the Stampede is commonly referred to as the 'greatest outdoor show on earth'.
Web site: www.calgarystampede.com

EDMONTON

Edmonton Eskimos Football (June to November, 2003)
The Edmonton Eskimos Canadian Football League season runs from June to November. Visit the team's official Web site for home game scheduling and ticket information at the world-class Commonwealth Stadium.
Web site: www.esks.com


Edmonton's Klondike Days 2003 (July 17 to 26, 2003)
Experience Canada's 4th largest fair, Edmonton's Klondike Days Exposition. This annual classic includes a parade, professional chuck wagon racing, midway rides and attractions, and an international show featuring cultural, culinary and shopping experiences exclusive to Edmonton.
Web site: www.klondikedays.com


The Works Visual Arts Festival (June 20 to July 2, 2003)
The Works is the provincial winner in the "Best Cultural Event" category of the Attractions Canada 2002 Competition. The festival covers a whole square mile, features 200 special events, and attracts artists and patrons from around the world.
Web site: www.theworks.ab.ca


Edmonton International Street Performers Festival 2003 (July 4 to 13, 2003)
Downtown Edmonton is never more fun-filled than in these 10 days of free performances by world-famous street acts including magicians, clowns, jugglers, mime artists, musicians & comics for the young-at-heart.
Web site: www.edmontonstreetfest.com

SASKATOON

Cameco Victoria Park Summer Festival (June 14 to 16, 2003)
For three days, families can enjoy a multitude of events and activities. Food, entertainment and a kids' fun zone are just the beginning. Don't miss the dragon boat races.
Web site: www.saskatoonsummerfestival.com


Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival (July 2 to August 27, 2003)
Famous for performing Shakespeare's works in a contemporary light, this festival presents two full-length plays in repertory and a musical revue, all on the banks of the Saskatchewan River. This year features the two classics: As You Like It and Measure for Measure.
Web site: www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com


Saskatoon Exhibition (August 5 to 10, 2003)
This year's Saskatoon Exhibition features free nightly shows, chuck wagon races, midway rides, and a ton of fun for the kids.
Web site: www.saskatoonex.com


Canada Remembers International Air Show (August 16 to 17, 2003)
Recognized worldwide as one of the best North American air shows, the Canada Remembers Air Show is dedicated to Canadian war veterans. Vintage and modern aircraft take part in the two-day event.
Web site: www.canadaremembersairshow.com


REGINA

Saskatchewan Roughriders Football (June to November, 2003)
The Saskatchewan Roughriders Canadian Football League season runs from June to November. Visit the team's Web site for scheduling and ticket information for Taylor Field.
Web site: www.saskriders.com/main.html


Buffalo Days Provincial Exhibition (July 20 to August 3, 2003)
Features a ton of family fun; midway rides, grandstand shows, livestock exhibits, fashion show, home craft, displays, exhibits, parade and racing. Free grandstand entertainment.


Saskatchewan Indian Federated College Pow Wow (June 21 to 22, 2003)
One of Canada's major pow wows, featuring dancers from Canada and the United States. Traditional foods and aboriginal crafts will be available for sale.
Web site: www.sifc.edu/president/


RCMP Sunset Retreat Ceremony (July 1 to August 12, 2003)
Witness all the pomp and pageantry of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in this ceremony at the RCMP National Training Academy. This event features the traditional lowering of the flag, a drill display by the cadet band and a march.
Web site: www.tourismregina.com


WINNIPEG

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Football (June to November, 2003)
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers Canadian Football League season runs from June to November. Visit the team's Web site for home game scheduling and ticket information at the Winnipeg Arena.
Web site: www.bluebombers.com


Red River Exhibition (June 19 to 28, 2003)
The Ex features a midway with rides, games and mouth-watering food, as well as stage acts, children's entertainers, art and craft exhibits, agricultural exhibits, youth talent shows and opening day fireworks.
Web site: www.redriverex.com


Winnipeg Folk Festival (July 10 to 13, 2003)
The 29th Winnipeg Folk Festival will host some of the hottest performers and non-stop performances in Bird's Hill Provincial Park. The 2003 line up includes dozens of world-class performers including Bob Geldof, Ani DiFranco, and The Good Brothers.
Web site: www.wpgfolkfest.mb.ca/


Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival (July 16 to 27, 2003)
The Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival now consists of over 120 theatre companies from around the world. Live theatre is presented in an informal environment, as the Fringe strives to break down traditional boundaries between audience and artist.
Web site: www.winnipegfringe.com


Folklorama (August 2 to 16, 2003)
Representing 40 cultures from around the world, this event explores ethnic traditions in dance, music, food and art.
Web site: www.folklorama.ca

LONDON

London International Children's Festival (June 11 to 15, 2003)
The London International Children's Festival is a celebration of the arts and childhood, consisting of the world's top performances for children. The Festival blends educational experiences with a celebration of the joy of childhood.
Web site: www.londonchildfest.com


London Airshow and Balloon Festival (June 27 to 29, 2003)
Don't miss Southwestern Ontario's largest outdoor event, The London Airshow & Balloon Festival. This is Canada's only combined Airshow and Hot Air Balloon Festival and features Canada's Snowbirds and some of the best of the US Air Force.
Web site: www.londonairshow.com


Sunfest 2003 (July 3 to 6, 2003)
Held in London's Victoria Park and elsewhere in the city, Sunfest is one of Canada's premier festivals of international music, dance, crafts and cuisine.
Web site: www.sunfest.on.ca


London Fringe Theatre Festival (August 1 to 17, 2003)
This festival features a variety of unique theatre and busker acts. Fun for the whole family. It takes place at various locations in downtown London.
Web site: www.londonfringe.on.ca

 

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NIAGARA FALLS

Falls Fireworks and Concert Series (June to September, 2003)
Every Friday, Sunday and civic holiday enjoy free concerts by the Falls at 8:00 p.m. followed by a spectacular fireworks finale at 10:00 p.m.
Web site: www.niagaraparks.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

Niagara International Chamber Music Festival (July 29 - August 20, 2003)
Internationally renowned musicians perform solo and chamber music in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Wine and Music concert series at Chateau des Charmes, Peller Estates, Stonechurch and Strewn wineries.
Web site: www.niagaramusicfest.com

TORONTO

Toronto Blue Jays Baseball (April to September, 2003)
Toronto's boys of summer play throughout the season at Skydome, which features Canada's only retractable stadium roof.
Web site: www.bluejays.com


Molson Indy Toronto (July 11 to 13, 2003)
Toronto's Exhibition Place is the home to the fast and furious Molson Indy, where the world's top drivers are pitted against each other in head-to-head competition.
Web site: www.molsonindy.com


Beaches International Jazz Festival (July 23 to July 27, 2003)
From a wooden platform in Kew Gardens, the Beaches International Jazz Festival has grown to be a powerhouse event, featuring top artists from the Jazz, Blues and Latin genres.
Website: www.beachesjazz.com/


Caribana Parade (August 2, 2003)
While the parade itself is scheduled for only one day, the celebrations for this renowned Caribbean festival last nearly a month. Food, music and other cultural gems attract participants from far and wide.
Web site: www.torontocarnival.com


Canadian National Exhibition (August 15 to September 1, 2003)
A Toronto tradition, the C.N.E. promises excitement for the entire family. Midway rides are just the beginning - you can't help but get swept-up in the games, food and vendor goods as well.
Web site: www.TheEx.com


OTTAWA

Changing of the Guard Ceremony (June 23 to August 25, 2003)
The Changing of the Guard at Parliament Hill showcases the pomp and ceremony of Canada's military tradition in a half-hour display that takes place every day, weather permitting.
Web site: www.parl.gc.ca/information/visitors/outdoor/changing-e.htm


Ottawa Renegades Football (June to November, 2003)
Ottawa's new professional Canadian Football League team hits the gridiron this summer in what promises to be an action-packed schedule at Frank Clair Stadium.
Web site: http://www.ottawarenegades.net/


The Age of Watteau, Chardin, and Fragonard: Masterpieces of French Genre Painting (June 6 to September 7, 2003)
Consisting of some one hundred works by twenty-five artists spanning the entire eighteenth century, this outstanding selection of paintings will constitute the first comprehensive survey exhibition devoted to French Genre painting.
Web site: www.national.gallery.ca/


Canada Day Celebrations (July 1, 2003)
Where better to celebrate Canada's birthday than in the nation's Capital Region. Events scheduled for Parliament Hill, Major's Hill Park and Jacques Cartier Park include music, fireworks and a healthy dose of national pride.
Web site: www.parl.gc.ca/information/visitors/events/content-e.htm


Central Canada Exhibition (August 14 to 24, 2003)
Midway rides, concerts and plenty of other excitement abound at this 10-day summer celebration.
Web site: www.the-ex.com

MONTRÉAL

Montréal Expos Baseball (April to September, 2003)
Join the Expos in their final season as they host a full summer schedule of Major League Baseball teams at Montréal's Olympic Stadium.
Web site: www.montrealexpos.com


Le Grand Prix du Canada (June 13 to 15, 2003)
Don't miss the only Canadian stopover on the 2003 Formula 1 circuit; the Montréal Grand Prix has become an annual event that attracts thousands of F1 enthusiasts from around the globe.
Web site: www.grandprix.ca


Montréal International Jazz Festival (June 26 to July 6, 2003)
With free admission to the majority of the 500-plus shows at this year's Jazz Festival, aficionados and curious onlookers alike will be greatly impressed.
Web site: www.montrealjazzfest.com/fijm2003/images/splash/intro.asp?flashPlugin=oui


Just For Laughs Festival (July 10 to 20, 2003)
The world-famous comedy festival celebrates two decades of laughter. Join international entertainers for over 2000 events, including over 1000 free shows.
Web site: www.hahaha.com/home/index.aspx?l=en-ca

QUÉBEC CITY

Marquet au fil de l'eau (May 24 to September 7, 2003)
This exhibition was organized in conjunction with the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux. See Marquet's work with your own eyes.
Web site: www.mdq.org/english/exhibitions.asp


Place Royale (June to September 2, 2003)
The historic birthplace of French America, Place Royale brings the traditions and culture of New France to life with a multitude of events to educate and entertain visitors.
Web site: www.mcq.org/place_royale/aalieux.html


Québec's National Holiday (June 23 to 24, 2003)
Since being declared a "National Holiday" in 1977, Ste. Jean Baptiste day is marked with a giant annual celebration of Québecois culture and history with many shows, events and parades.
Web site: www.cfn.org


Québec City Summer Festival (July 3 to 13, 2003)
More than 800 artists from over 20 countries descend upon historic Québec City for this non-stop celebration of music and culture, with traditional and contemporary music, street and circus performances.
Web site: www.infofestival.com


New France Celebrations (August 6 to 10, 2003)
Artists, dancers, musicians and artisans join together to celebrate the birth of New France, French traditions and culture, all within the walls of Old Québec.
Web site: www.nouvellefrance.qc.ca

 

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HALIFAX

CSS Acadia 90th Anniversary Celebrations (Month of July, 2003)
Join the Maritime Museum for a month of public programs and activities dedicated to celebrating the retired Canadian Hydrographic ship Acadia on the occasion of her 90th birthday.
Web site: www.museum.gov.ns.ca/mma/


Nova Scotia International Tattoo (June 29 to July 7, 2003)
The Halifax Metro Centre hosts this annual two-hour event by military and civilian performers. Military bands, dance and drama make up this popular show.
Web site: www.nstattoo.ca


Halifax Highland Games and Scottish Festival (July 5, 2003)
The enormous influence of the Scots on Halifax is acknowledged with fiddling performances, Highland dance displays, pipe bands and more.
Web site: http://www.halifaxhighlandgames.com/


Atlantic Jazz Festival (July 18 to July 27, 2003)
450 national and international performers will delight music lovers from all over with countless top-quality acts. From stage shows to intimate and casual concerts, from a giant block party to cool collaborations, from slick and refined to funky and edgy, the Atlantic Jazz Festival has something to satisfies every musical palate.
Web site: http://www.jazzeast.com/festival2003/


ST. JOHN'S

Signal Hill Tattoo (July 1 to August 12, 2003)
Military marches and drills are on display on historic Signal Hill. Performances take place, weather permitting, every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 3:00pm and 7:00pm.
Web site: www.stemnet.nf.ca/Community/Tattoo/


Cape St. Mary's Performance Series (June 1 to September 30, 2003)
A series of music, dance, drama, storytelling, slide presentations, film and visual art, held at the Interpretation Centre of Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve.
Web site: www.gov.nf.ca/tourism/welcome/default.htm


Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival (August 1 to 3, 2003)
The 27th installment of the folk festival brings together an eclectic group of homegrown artists in celebration of local customs and traditions.
Web site: www.sjfac.nf.net/fest2003


MONCTON

Campbellton Salmon Festival (June 30 to July 7, 2003)
The annual celebration of the world-famous Restigouche Atlantic Salmon. There are events for all ages including a 10 km Road Race, Canada Day Celebrations with giant fireworks, salmon suppers, the biggest street closure with food, fun and music for everyone.
Website: www.campbellton.org/En/SpecialEvents/SalmonFestival/SalmonSched.html


Festival By the Sea (August 5 to 10, 2003)
Nine days national performing arts festival presenting in excess of 100 performances, only nine requiring paid admittance. All styles of music and dance, including children's entertainment.
Website: www.festivalbythesea.com

CHARLOTTETOWN

Anne of Green Gables - The Musical™ (June 28 to August 18 , 2003)
Based on the story of Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, this is Canada's longest running musical; also been named Canada's top event for 2003.
Website: www.gov.pe.ca/visitorsguide/explore/lmm.php3


Summerside Celtic Festival (June 27 to August 31, 2003)
The College of Piping is a truly unique cultural destination! The annual summer-long Celtic Festival features an evening concert series with performances nightly at 7 pm. Featuring piping, drumming, Highland dancing, step dancing, fiddling, singing, and storytelling.
Website: www.collegeofpiping.com/events/celticfestival.php3


Summerside Lobster Carnival (July 10 to July 19, 2003)
The Summerside Lobster Carnival will feature street sales, stage entertainment, celebrity dinner, street parade, lobster suppers, talent show, harness racing, Maritime rides and attractions midway, fiddling contest, children's entertainment and much more.
Website: www.peiaexhibitions.org/summersidelobstercarnival.html


Atlantic Superstore Festival of Lights 2003 (June 28 to July 1, 2003)
Start your summer rockin' in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, at the 8th annual Atlantic Superstore Festival of the Lights. This action packed party lasts four-days and four-nights and is the largest Canada Day birthday bash east of the nation's capital!
Website: www.visitcharlottetown.com/lights/index.cfm