Residents in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and the nearby area can anticipate a weekend brimming with various events, including fairs, festivals, and fundraisers. From August 15 to 16, there will be a range of options for community engagement, such as the Murillo Fair, Westfort Street Fair, Pawchella, Festival of India, and the Summer Matsuri.
The Oliver Agricultural Society is set to host its annual Murillo Fair at the Murillo Fairgrounds in Oliver Paipoonge, Ontario, starting from Friday through Sunday. The fair will feature traditional agricultural activities like livestock competitions, homecraft exhibits, midway rides, and lawn mower races. Admission prices are $10 for adults, $5 for youth and seniors, and free for children under five.
The Westfort Street Fair will take place on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Frederica Street East, showcasing a variety of local vendors, businesses, artists, musicians, and food options. This free fair is a celebration of the Westfort community and its local businesses.
A new dog-friendly fundraiser festival called Pawchella will be held at Kamview Nordic Centre on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. The event aims to raise funds for appendix cancer care and research through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation’s Northern Cancer Fund. Attendees can enjoy activities with their furry friends, interact with local vendors, watch agility demonstrations, and participate in dog walks ranging from two to five kilometers.
The Festival of India and the Festival of Colours, postponed due to wildfires, will return to Marina Park on Saturday and Sunday. The Festival of India will feature a chariot parade, traditional music, dancing, cultural performances, yoga sessions, wellness activities, henna art, artisan vendors, and a vegetarian dinner feast. The following day will include color throws, interactive dances, live music, DJs, yoga sessions, and more.
The Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association will host the Summer Matsuri on Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the West Thunder Community Centre. This festival will showcase Japanese Canadian culture, including live entertainment such as taiko drumming, kimono dressing, martial arts demonstrations, and a vendor market offering Japanese and Asian cuisine.
Additionally, Brother John will perform live at the Sundays in the Park Concert from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Chippewa Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for a comfortable experience at this public event.