Summer art festivals and events in Ontario

Greater Toronto Area

Luminato Festival

Luminato Festival is an international arts festival of performance, media and visual arts.

Artists from all walks of life participate in the festival by creating new, original work, allowing Canadians to meet some of today’s most exciting international talent. The Luminato Festival has become one of Canada’s most active commissioning bodies, having commissioned close to 100 original works of art in various mediums.

When: June 5–16, 2024
Where: Multiple event sites across Toronto

Toronto Outdoor Art Fair

As Canada’s largest and longest-running annual contemporary fair, the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (TOAF) showcases the works of over 400 artists and visual makers at Nathan Phillips Square and online every year.

This art event helps launch many of these artists’ careers through free public programs and fosters a growing appreciation for the arts in visitors. Since its inception in 1961, over two million dollars have been spent on artwork sales.

When: July 12–14, 2024
Where: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto

Ottawa Region

Art in the Park Festival

Formerly known as The New Art Festival, Art in the Park in Central Park is Ottawa’s longest-running outdoor art exhibit.

Around 200 visual artists participate in this juried art festival every year, displaying a variety of handmade works including ceramics, photography, jewellery and textiles. The festival was created to assist emerging and established artists promote their artwork and network with the community.

When: June 8–9, 2024
Where: 19 Clemow Avenue, Ottawa

Southwestern Ontario

Art in the Park Blenheim

Browse through the unique works of artists, creators and makers at this annual art event while enjoying the beautiful view of Talbot Trail Place in Blenheim.

Art in the Park features a variety of wares such as wooden crafts, embroidered accessories, wall art, canvas prints and other handmade goods.

When: June 24, 2024
Where: 24 John Street West, Blenheim

Southeastern Ontario

Artfest

Local and visiting artists travel to this annual art event in Kingston’s City Park to sell their handmade Canadian wares, including visual art, clothing, fashion accessories, pottery, wood and much more.

In addition, Artfest hosts a range of fun activities for kids and adults alike, and a variety of food trucks will be available in the park. Admission to Artfest is free. Art is also available to buy online.

When: June 21–July 1, 2024
Where: 79 Barrie Street, Kingston

Art in the County

Recognized as Eastern Ontario’s premiere juried group exhibition and sale, the 31^st annual Art in the County will be held on the upper level of the Picton Armoury. Art in the County is a signature program of the Prince Edward County Arts Council.

When: June 21–July 7, 2024
Where: 206 Main Street West, Picton

Muskoka Art in PEC

As part of an innovative artistic collaboration between Prince Edward County (PEC) and Muskoka, this event in PEC will showcase incredible works of art by Muskoka Arts & Crafts members. Guests are invited to view and purchase original artwork at the County Arts Lab.

When: August 9–25, 2024
Where: 206 Main Street West, Picton

Niagara Region

Niagara-on-the-Lake Studio Tour

Explore the vibrant art community in the heart of Ontario’s largest wine region. Meet artists and artisans and discuss their creative process and inspirations.

When: June 1–3, 2024
Where: Various studios in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Artistry by the Lake

Taking place in the beautiful Queen’s Royal Park near the Niagara River and Lake Ontario, this art event is a juried show and marketplace of over 80 artists and artisans displaying their original, handcrafted works in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Featured art includes paintings, fibre arts, sculptures, photography, glass and more.

When: June 29–July 1, 2024
Where: 45 Front Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Hamilton, Halton and Brant

Art in the Park (Oakville)

Founded in 1965 by the Oakville Art Society, Art in the Park was made with the goal of promoting local artists and raising funds for subsidized art programming.

Today, it has become Oakville’s premiere annual art event, featuring the works of over 175 artists from across Canada at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park. Live music and food will also be provided for visitors and artists, so everyone is sure to have a fun and enjoyable experience.

The admission paid to enjoy Art in the Park supports the Oakville Art Society and its art programming. Admission for kids under 12 is free.

When: August 5, 2024
Where: 2340 Ontario Street, Oakville

Algonquin Park, Muskoka and Parry Sound

Muskoka Arts & Crafts Summer Show

The Muskoka Arts and Crafts Summer Show is run by Muskoka Arts and Crafts, one of the oldest arts organizations in Ontario.

Established in 1963, this non-profit organization’s annual art event has long been a highlight of Muskoka summers, attracting hundreds of artists and over 16,000 visitors every year to Annie Williams Memorial Park. Admission can be purchased at the gate or on their newly designed Muskoka Arts & Crafts App for IOS and Android.

When: July 19–21, 2024
Where: 50 Santas Village Road, Bracebridge

Northern Ontario

Up Here Festival

The annual Up Here Festival brings together dozens of muralists, musicians and installation artists to transform the streets of Downtown Sudbury into an urban art gallery.

This art festival is run by the volunteer non-profit organization “We Live Up Here,” which centres itself around how art can impact people and communities. Join a guided walking tour to see all the murals or download the Up Here app for a self-guided experience. In addition to the festival, there is also an online shop.

When: August 15–18, 2024
Where: Multiple sites in downtown Sudbury