39 Things to Do After Dark in South Eastern Ontario
By day, South Eastern Ontario is a little slice of paradise with a unique combination of local culture and stunning natural landscapes. But that doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! The fun continues in the region at night to provide some one-of-a-kind experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. Read on for 39 things that make nighttime the right time to shine in South Eastern Ontario!
Bay Of Quinte
1. Downtown@Dusk
Get ready for an enchanting street party in downtown Belleville! Set for Friday, June 21 with shopping, local vendors, featured artists and food. Grab a spot on a lively patio, see street performers, and listen to music rising through the carriageways. From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. celebrate the summer solstice on Front Street, which will be turned into a pedestrian promenade for the evening!
2. Old Church Theatre and Tipsy Vicar Pub
A night at the Old Church typically means plenty of live music with a side of excellent wood-fired pizza. This 140-year-old historical landmark sits atop a hill and from the top of its signature tower with four windows, you can look into all three of the surrounding counties; Hastings, Prince Edward and Northumberland. Special evenings are a tradition here – find some amazing tunes with upcoming artists like Sultans of String, Suzie Vinnick, Lynne Hanson and more!
3. Night Glow Kayak Excursion
Book your sunset glow excursion today and witness the magical view while listening to your favourite playlist on our Bluetooth speaker. Experience a two-person, one-hour kayak excursion in a glowing, clear kayak! Lite and Glow Water Rentals is a new vendor at the Pop Ups On the Bay - take in the waterfront at night and get ready to make your summer glow.
4. Signal Brewing Company
It doesn't get much better than local beer, great food and live music on a spacious waterfront patio along the mighty Moira River. Signal Brewing Company makes every evening special with its rustic interior and amazing views. Stop by for a friendly chat, tunes, tastes and discover your new favourite brew.
Prince Edward County
5. Movies at the Mustang Nostalgia at its best! The Mustang Drive In is brimming with possibility and retro vibes. Catch a double feature under the stars or one of their live music events. It has been a community mainstay since the 1950s – and is still going strong creating memories to last a lifetime.
6. Night Watch at Base 31
An illuminated nighttime adventure! Equipped with a magical lantern, gather your friends to embark on a journey through 10 immersive exhibits brought to life with dynamic lighting, spectacular video projections and a soundscape for adventure. Swing by the exclusive Night Watch bar to mingle with fellow explorers and savour drinks under the starlit sky.
7. Cocktails at The Russ and Co.
Unwind and relax with a refreshing cocktail or cold one at this bespoke bar in PEC. Craft cocktails and great vibes are plentiful in this intimate space that’s sure to become your new favourite hang. No resos needed – come as you are and come thirsty. Open until 2 a.m. from Wednesday through Sunday.
8. Magic Hour Markets
This enchanting market showcases fun, innovative and art-centric vendors under a curated collection of talented Canadian artisans, creators, makers and producers. Magic Hour Markets is proudly hosted by PEC Markets and Base31. Peep intriguing finds and designs, each echoing the community’s spirit. Swing by every Friday night from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. until August 30.
9. Bar Duchess
Is it cocktail hour yet? Bar Duchess is a brand spanking new late-night place to be in Wellington. When the sun sets and the cocktails are flowing, this bar full of character lights up. Be there to taste and experience elevated drinks after dark at Bar Duchess.
10. Barn Parties at The Hayloft
Home of the best drink-sloshing, boot stomping parties in The County! The Hayloft Dancehall has been throwing open its barn doors for about 50 years as the 170-year-old barn rocks late into the night welcoming live music, drag shows, dances and burlesque. A true after-dark summertime tradition in Cherry Valley.
11. Listen Live in the County
From jazz at Adega Wine Bar to folk at Karlo Estates, Prince Edward County is a hotspot for live entertainment after dark. Check out a full slate of events and never enjoy hopping to a different live experience every night throughout the summer!
Lennox & Addington
12. The Sky’s the Limit at L&A Dark Sky Viewing Area
Grab lawn chairs and a blanket – and prepare to be awed by the breathtaking night sky seen at the Lennox & Addington Dark Sky Viewing Area. Rediscover the night sky as it looked 100 years ago at the most southerly dark sky night viewing area in the province! Be sure to look for the laser guided stargazing tour nights - big hat tip to nature for making this evening unforgettable.
The ultimate beer and music festival! Back to the Farm at MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company in Bath has grown to welcome thousands of people to revel in awesome live music and enjoy quality craft beer brewed on site. Party down home style on Sunday August 18, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. to close – better book the next day off work now. Watch for artist announcements coming soon!
14. Dinner al-fresco in L&A County
As it cools off at dusk, pull up a chair at a waterside restaurant and enjoy the twilight hours while savouring locally crafted food. Try out The Waterfront River Pub & Terrace, Napanee or Beachside BBQ in Bath which specializes in Southern smoked barbecue in a fun tropical atmosphere, or even The Lakeview Tavern in Erinsville where we hear has some stellar fish and chips.
Frontenac County
15. Camp at Frontenac Provincial Park
Set your course for adventure! Frontenac Provincial Park offers more than 100 km of hiking and backpacking trails in interconnected loops, so you can hike or paddle to your overnight site! This interior camping park lets you get back to nature with intriguing features to see along the way like beaver ponds, century old remains of homesteads and even abandoned mica mines. Trail lengths and difficulty vary; be sure to plan ahead. If you need help preparing, get in touch with Walt at Firefly Adventures who will create an amazing wilderness experience for you and your crew.
16. Hotel Wolfe Island events
Home of loads of live music and special events that will spice up your life – waterside! With a newly renovated waterfront patio overlooking Lake Ontario and a full lineup of summer music paired with delicious eats and cold drinks, Hotel Wolfe Island is the place to gather with friends when day turns to night. Take a look at how summer is sizzling at Hotel Wolfe Island!
1000 Islands Gananoque
17. Dockside Theatre at Night
Make it an evening to remember with on-stage magic at the Thousands Islands Playhouse! Canada’s Dockside Theatre produces seven high-calibre, professional productions each season in two fully-accessible venues that overlook the stunning St. Lawrence River. The venues create a true river ambiance, with the Springer Theatre veranda providing the perfect place for patrons to enjoy a glass of wine while watching the twinkling lights after sunset on the St. Lawrence River during intermission. The Thousand Islands Playhouse has been presenting live entertainment in the heart of the 1000 Islands for more than 40 years with a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River.
18. Thousand Islands Shorelines Casino
For other fast-paced action, test your luck at the Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands in Gananoque! With hundreds of slot machines complementing numerous live and electronic table games, any night becomes instantly more entertaining.
19. Brockville Railway Tunnel
The Brockville Railway Tunnel is a must-see destination – but did you know it’s especially enchanting at night? Once darkness falls, the lights inside Canada’s first railway tunnel seem amplified. The tunnel doors close at 9 p.m. so there is plenty of time to visit after watching the sunset over the St. Lawrence River on Blockhouse Island. Marvel at being able to walk through a piece of our country’s history.
20. Sleep out on an island
Sleeping on one of the famed 1,000 Islands under a blanket of stars with the water lapping at the shoreline nearby is second to none. Camping is the best way to experience the renowned natural aspects of the 1,000 Islands first hand. Both Thousand Islands National Park and the City of Brockville own several islands within the fabled 1,000 Islands region that are available for camping bookings! Plan ahead and book a campsite for an unforgettable adventure on your own island retreat. Thousand Islands National Park even has oTENTik accommodations available on several islands, which is a cross between a tent and a rustic cabin for an easier camping experience. The oTENTik accommodations on Gordon Island and McDonald Island provide an ideal base camp and private retreat for paddlers exploring the Thousand Islands, or some extra living space for boaters. Don’t forget the marshmallows!
21. Full Moon Cruise
Escape the ordinary and cruise the St. Lawrence River under a full moon! 1000 Islands & Seaway Cruises is embarking on June 21 and throughout the summer for every full moon over the river. Featuring live entertainment, as well as themed snack and beverages, this upscale evening out is a mesmerizing night cruise to remember.
22. Brockville Arts Centre
Known for an experience that make theatregoers feel close and connected to the performers on stage, the Brockville Arts Centre presents some of the best live entertainment in Eastern Ontario. This beautiful restored heritage theatre is well-known for its comfort, friendly staff and fine acoustics. See movies, as well as live shows at night here! The Brockville Arts Centre has a long history as a true community gem.
23. Throw some axes
Grab some friends and make a night of it at The Capitol Axe Throwing in Brockville! Enjoy the fast growing sport of axe throwing in a safe, clean and family friendly facility which accommodates groups and special events.
1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways
24. Staging a magical summer’s night
The St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival in Prescott brings Shakespeare to life through professional outdoor theatre staged against the backdrop of the St. Lawrence River in the amphitheatre at the town’s harbour. It all makes for a magical night under the stars as the stage is filled with enchanting professional outdoor performances. This summer look for The Tempest, She Stoops to Conquer and Play On! A Shakespeare Inspired Mixtape on the bill.
25. Tempt your taste buds and stroll the waterfront in Prescott
Prescott’s pubs beckon! Indulge in dinner at O’Heaphy’s Irish Pub or a cozy gathering at the Red George Pub following by a moonlit stroll along Prescott’s Heritage River Trail.
26. Diablo Manor
Indulge in an evening of Victorian decadence as you enter The Diablo Manor with Scott McClelland in Spencerville. A truly unique evening awaits - experience Victorian hedonism, strange artifacts, bizarre performances, and a delicious meal all steeped in the realm of the supernatural.
27. Live at The Cove Inn
Live music almost every night of the year! Feel right at home at the restaurant with a vintage feel and welcoming ambiance. This is a special place in Westport – superb locally-inspired food, a waterview patio surrounded by gardens, and epic live music entertainment. As the sun goes down and the lights come on, hit the dance floor to turn a late night into the talk of tomorrow!
Kingston
28. Improbable Escapes: Wonderland (West-End)
Inspired by storybooks and fairytales, the games at Improbable Escapes Wonderland in the west-end of Kingston are fully immersive puzzle-solving adventures! With themes like Seven Dwarves: Mining Mission and Neverland: Heist on the High Seas, these escape rooms promise family-friendly fun while still being challenging. Did you know all games at Improbable Escapes are fully designed in house by their development team?
29. Sunset Dinner Cruise
Join Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises for a Sunset Dinner Cruise to experience a spectacular evening on the water! Float from day to night in a bistro where the scenery is always changing. Dine aboard the glass-topped Island Star, where you’ll be treated to a three course dinner.
30. Movies in the Square
Thursday nights throughout the summer, starting June 27, 2024, Springer Market Square is transformed into an outdoor movie theatre at dusk! Grab a blanket or lawn chair, friends or family and hunker down to enjoy movies on the big screen while munching on popcorn or cotton candy! Find out what’s playing and plan to attend.
SDG Counties
31. Take in a show at Upper Canada Playhouse
The Upper Canada Playhouse in Morrisburg serves up a memorable prescription of musicals and comedies. Four shows this summer will keep visitors laughing, engaged, surprised and singing along, including The Perfect Wedding, Bedtime Stories by Norm Foster, Leaving Margery Bliss and Those Movies – a new comedy by Norm Foster. Operating out of a charmingly converted former factory, the Upper Canada Playhouse is one of the most acclaimed professional theatre companies in Eastern Ontario. Hilarious summer comedies cap off sensational spring and fall concerts and a magical, musical Christmas show - all performed on a stage where everyone’s close to the action.
32. Stonehouse Vineyards
Be sure to take in vineyard tours and four (yes, you read that right!) patios at Stonehouse Vineyards just down the road. The tastings and tours are a great way to explore the vineyard with your own guide – as well as book a private patio tasting for you and a special someone. Bring a chair or blanket to sit back and enjoy live music into the night set against the beautiful vines. With wine and snacks available, this is the perfect summertime evening waiting to happen! Make a night of it and stay at Groovy Yurts, hand-made and authentic Mongolian four-season yurts at a farm in Alexandria.
33. Stonecrop Acres Winery
The perfect evening pairing: wine and music. Experience it all a stone’s throw from where the grapes grow. Enjoy wine and cider tastings, wood fired pizza and incredible concerts at this winery and vineyard near Morrisburg. Have a peek at their upcoming events and plan to attend.
Cornwall
34. Aultsville Theatre
Hosting top notch performances and live music in its spacious theatre for more than 45 years, audiences at the Aultsville Theatre enjoy excellent acoustics, with no seat more than 90 feet from center stage! Artists such as Jim Cuddy, Steve Earle and the Irish Rovers have performed here. From local artists to world class touring performers, audiences and artists alike appreciate the exceptional experience provided by this 680-seat performing arts space. This season, look for artists like Ashley MacIsaac with the Festival of Small Halls, April Wine, as well as tributes to Johnny Cash, the Eagles – and much more.
35. Archie’s Golf
Unleash your inner child! Archie’s Golf has been a fixture on the Cornwall scene since the 1950s. With a driving range, 9-hole course, 18 holes of mini golf adventure, and 9 holes of foot golf, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to indulge in a sweet treat from Archie’s beloved Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop!
36. Cornwall Motor Speedway
Get your motor running at the Cornwall Motor Speedway! Hear the roar of the engines at night during this fun summertime tradition; the speedway promises several feature races every Sunday on the quarter-mile dirt track. Check out the upcoming events as the track often heats up with special races throughout the summer and fall as well, such as a Canada Day Spectacular and the Canadian Super Dirt Weekend in the fall.
37. Rush Hour Escapes
You’re in the middle of a mystery: solving puzzles, riddles, and hidden games! To complete the mission in this challenging real-life adventure game, find clues, crack codes and solve puzzles to escape before time runs out. Your adventure awaits with one of the two escape room missions: The Expedition and Mildred Murphy’s Missing. Groups of four to eight players have 60 minutes on the clock to find their way around the mission by solving puzzles that test your brain and teamwork skills. Level up your evening!
38. Esca Gourmet Pizza and Bar
This gem on Pitt Street in Cornwall features a 1,000 square foot patio, perfect for enjoying the warm weather with a cold drink. It’s also open late until midnight most nights, so it’s a great option for cocktails, nightcaps and slow drinks with friends.
Prescott-Russell
39. Music in the Vines at Vankleek Hill Vineyard
Get your toes tapping at Vankleek Hill Vineyard Fridays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Take a look at the lineup for the summer and plan to pop by! No reservations needed – first come first served. Bring your own lawn chair if you’re worried about seating. Enjoy wine by the glass, bottle or flight as well as artisanal pizza and charcuterie.
Be inspired by all of the incredible offerings in South Eastern Ontario to embrace the dark! Just because the lights go out doesn’t mean the fun dims. What will your next after-dark adventure be?