Families, fairs and festivals all go together and there are plenty of options to choose from in Thunder Bay in September 2019. Here’s the roundup of everything that’s going on. And if you'd like to stretch out summer just a little longer, check out the tbaywithkids.ca list of 50 fun family activities!
September 1-2
Hymers Fall Fair, Hymers
“A little country fair with a big country heart” is the theme of this traditional fair that’s been a family tradition for more than a hundred years. Sunday 9am-6pm, Monday 9am-5pm, admission required (note kids 5 and under are free, and kids 6-12 get in for $1 if they bring a zucchini or sunflower). Shuttle available at various locations.
More info www.hymersfair.com
September 2
Labour Day Picnic, Current River Park
At this annual free picnic you can enjoy yummy eats (hot dogs, corn and ice cream), inflatables, pony rides, clowns, music and games. 12-4pm, free (rain date September 3).
More info OPSEU Region 9 on Facebook
September 13-15
Thunder Bay Truck Centre Dirt Track Nationals, Mosquito Speedway
Returning to the Nolalu racetrack for the sixth year, this family event promises lots of speed and action for the car-loving kid in your life. September 13 at 4pm to September 15 at 7pm (for more info on times and prices see their website or Facebook page).
More info Mosquito Speedway on Facebook
September 14
West Thunder Corn Roast & Vendors Market, West Thunder Community Centre
Live music, bouncy castles, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides and of course lots of delicious local corn on the cob are all on offer at this family-friendly event. 11am-3pm, free admission, some activities have a fee.
More info West Thunder Community Centre on Facebook
Franco-Festival, Centre francophone (234 Van Norman Street)
Listen to live music, eat poutine and other goodies, help build the world’s largest Franco-Ontario flag out of Lego and try VR googles, all en francais at this festival celebrating francophone culture. Free, 12-4pm.
More info www.francofestival.com
Wake the Giant Music Festival, Marina Park
At this new festival, the spotlight is on Indigenous music and culture and aims to bring different cultures, music lovers and age groups together to promote community. 11am-11pm, admission required.
More info Wake the Giant on Facebook
September 21-22
ThunderCon, CLE building
Calling all superheroes and characters! ThunderCon has expanded its kid-friendly activities this year, including a Kidzone with crafts, big screen gaming, a Nerf Alley, children’s costume contest and story time. 10am-6pm on Saturday, 10am-5pm on Sunday, admission required.
More info www.thundercon.org
Meet Curious George, Toy Sense
Take your littles to meet George, and you’re welcome to come in costume or simply wear red and yellow to celebrate the curious little monkey. Saturday at May Street location and Sunday at Bay Street location. 11am-3pm, free.
More info www.toysense.ca
AAC Agility Trials, Chippewa Park
Watch well-trained doggies compete in various speed and agility competitions , all within a fully-fenced ring. This year the trials are in a new location at Chippewa Park, which also has a great playground and view of The Giant, btw. 9am start, free.
More info TDC on Facebook
September 27-28
Harry Potter Festival, Willow Springs Creative Centre
Willow Springs pulled out all the stops last year for this festival and it’s a must for Harry Potter fans. Explore various parts of the wizarding world and definitely come in costume (last year Rita Skeeter and Hermoine Granger represented tbaywithkids.ca). 3-7pm on Friday and 12-5pm on Saturday, admission required.
More info Willow Springs Creative Centre on Facebook
For all the info on family-friendly events and happenings in Thunder Bay, visit www.tbaywithkids.ca or follow us on Facebook!