Sun-Soaked Festivals & Events in Ontario’s Highlands

Summer has officially entered the chat, and Ontario’s Highlands is turning up the heat with festivals, food and feel-good fun all season long. Whether you’re chasing live music under the stars, snacking your way through local food festivals or lakeside lounging between small-town strolls, this is the place to make your summer plans shine.

From markets worth wandering and concerts by the water to fairs, patios and can’t-miss community events, Ontario’s Highlands is serving up a calendar packed with sunshine and good vibes. Consider this your sign to soak it all in.

Ottawa River Paddle Fest - Foresters Falls

When: June 6, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: OWL Rafting, Foresters Falls

Head to the ultimate in whitewater destinations, OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River to celebrate the river itself during this three-day event. Expect live music, vendor marketplace, access to the paddling film festival and a story panel with Ottawa River experts. Whether you're experienced or trying it for the first time, there are activities for all skill levels. Camp on-site to fully experience the energy of this unique riverside event.

Waterfront Live! – Pembroke

When: All summer in 2026 (except Tuesdays)
Where: Riverwalk Amphitheatre, Pembroke

Just like the name implies, this event is a chance to watch live music at the waterfront in the heart of the Ottawa Valley, in Pembroke. Nightly music beneath the stars on a warm summer night, what could beat that? Performances run between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Tickets: These performances are FREE!

Mineral Capital Concerts - Bancroft

When: Wednesdays July 8 through early September 2026 at 7 p.m.
Where: Millennium Park Bandshell

Enjoy free live music all summer long at Mineral Capital Concerts in Bancroft, Ontario! Held Wednesday evenings in Millennium Park along the York River, this family-friendly concert series features talented performers, a scenic riverside setting, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy great music in the heart of Bancroft.

Ottawa Valley PaddleFest - Arnprior

When: July 2026
Where: McLean Avenue Beach, Arnprior

Water lovers, this one is for you! Get ready to splash and play in the Ottawa River at the second annual PaddleFest. Take part in a river paddle, challenge a friend in the water bike race, or stretch and unwind with beach yoga. This event is all about the water, and is accompanied by live music on the beach to keep you grooving. 

Stewart Park Festival - Perth

When: July 17 to 29, 2026
Where: Stewart Park, Perth

For more than 30 years the Stewart Park Festival has been the destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers to experience a smaller scale Woodstock-esque, free, musical outdoor event. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and a cooler with a picnic lunch or snacks and park yourself in beautiful Stewart Park in downtown Perth for three days of music, dancing, and fun.

Haliburton Art & Craft Festival  - Haliburton

When: July 24 to 26, 2026
Where: Rail’s End Gallery and Head Lake Park, Haliburton

Browse the art of more than 100 artists in this juried show adjacent to beautiful Head Lake Park in the heart of Haliburton. More than simply an art show, you can expect to see buskers and watch art demos, sample craft beer, and more.

Haliburton Summer Festival  - Haliburton

When: Summer 2026
Where: Northern Lights Performing Arts Pavilion, Haliburton

 Running from July through August, this community theatre company offers live performances that will entertain and inspire. Get your tickets in advance for this fun community theatre programming!

Tour de Forest - Haliburton Highlands

When: Aug. 1 to 2, 2026
Where: Various artist locations in Haliburton Highlands

In August, take a scenic drive through the Highlands and visit local artist studios as the tour celebrates its 20th anniversary. It’s a summer tradition that’s part road trip, part cultural experience. 

Wilberforce Fair - Wilberforce

When: Aug. 7 to 8, 2026
Where: Wilberforce, Ontario

Called "the biggest little fair around," this event is not quite a festival, but we couldn’t resist including it in our list. If you’re looking for a small town event that is overflowing with community spirit and that hometown feel, this fair is it. Get ready for children’s activities, the horse and pony pull and the nail driving competition, and a full day of old fashioned fun that will take you back to yesteryear.

Puppets Up! - Almonte

When: Aug. 8-9, 2026
Where: Downtown Almonte

Returning every second year, this beloved festival brings the magic of puppetry to the streets of Almonte. Spend the weekend exploring a vibrant lineup of performances, hands on workshops, and family friendly entertainment. Wander through downtown as puppets of all kinds come to life, meet talented performers, and experience one of a kind creativity and storytelling.

Water and Dirt Festival - Renfrew County

When: Aug. 1 to 16, 2026
Where: Various locations throughout Renfrew County

If you love cycling, running, paddling, and swimming, this event really does have it all. Back again in 2024, you can explore the Ottawa Valley’s roads, trails, and parks in the “Dirt” side of the event, and still be able to splash it out with the fishing and paddling portion in the “Water” side of the event.

Tweed Stampede - Tweed

When: Sept. 3 to 7, 2026
Where: Trudeau Park, Tweed

Did you know that there are stampedes in this part of Canada? The Tweed Stampede and Jamboree offers the chance to experience something brand new with those who matter most. Immerse yourselves in unforgettable events like bronco riding, and experience the thrill of trucks trying to pull heavy equipment.  This festival wouldn’t be complete without the rhythms of country music to complete the experience!

Tickets: Get a weekend pass or book a campsite here.

Cavestock Concert Series - Eganville

When: August 20 and 27, 2026
Where: Bonnechere Caves, Eganville

The Bonnechere Caves are once again hosting their popular live music series featuring Classic Rock and Roll Singalong picnic on Aug. 20 and a Local Ladies Who Rock on the Rock on Aug. 27. Shows begin at 6:00 p.m.

Tickets: Tickets are $10 and available at the door.