53 events to live your best August life in South Eastern Ontario
The heat is on! We’re thick into summer in South Eastern Ontario – are you experiencing all that it has to offer? If you’re tired of sitting poolside and want to dive into unique regional experiences, have a look at these 53 events to elevate your August!
1. August 2 to 4 - Lombardy Fair
You can’t beat a country fair! The Lombardy Agricultural Society is celebrating 158 years of country hospitality with something for everyone from Friday, August 2 to Sunday, August 4. Look for a demolition derby, exhibits in the barn, the midway, ever-popular annual 4-H Club Dairy Achievement Day and much more.
2. Until August 4 – Le FestivISLES 2024 Gananoque
Le FestivILES 2024 is a bilingual festival! All the music in Joel Stone Park is 50% English and 50% French, making it fun for both the community and French visitors! Come down to the park August 2 at 6 p.m. for Link Traynor and The Chantal Hackett Band as well as August 3 at 6 p.m. for River City Junction & Michel Pagliaro Officiel. The Hungry Herbivore will be at the waterfront on August 3 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Then on August 4, look for a craft market from French music and vendors in Joel Stone Park, with Kevin and Frayne closing out Le FestISLES at the Royal Theatre from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. See you there!
3. August 2 to 26 – Summer Workshops at Stone Manor Studios
Explore the timeless charm of Stone Manor Studios, nestled in the heart of the Rideau Lakes area, and let your creativity bloom. This historic 1860s stone estate, located in the historic village of Newboro, is alive with vibrant art workshops throughout August including creating a 5-foot heron for the garden on Aug. 2; beginner’s course in watercolour painting; a forest bathing workshop on Aug. 22 and even a learn to weave weekend retreat on Aug. 24 to 26.
4. August 2 to 3 - Glengarry Highland Games
Music, dance, sports, fiddling, pageantry and tradition in Maxville! The Glengarry Highland Games is a huge crowd pleaser from August 2 to 3 with a long history dating back to 1948 as one of the largest games in the world. Witness massed bands and Highlands Fling, heavyweight competitions, whiskey tasting, clan parade, Wee Bairns activity area, Celtic entertainment, Highlanders’ tug-o-war and so much more. The Glengarry Highland Games has drawn almost a million people over the years to experience this impressive event – come see why!
5. August 3 - Brews and Bags Cornhole Tournament at Lost Villages Brewery
Think you have what it takes to be the ultimate cornhole champion? Compete in the inaugural year of Brews and Bags Cornhole Tournament hosted by the Lost Villages Brewery on August 3, with the Festival Showdown held on August 24.
6. August 3 and 4 - Soak up the Sunflowers and Bee Amazed - Smirnholm Farms
Stop by the farm at 65 Main Street in Morewood to enjoy a variety of activities including educational displays on beekeeping and wildflowers; a two-acre wildflower plot; horse drawn wagon rides; local entertainment; sandwiches and charcuterie boards by Simply Baked Catering, and even a cocktail! Last year, the event raised $5,000 for the WDMH Foundation – WDMHF Cancer Care Fund.
7. August 4 - Sunflower Strolls at Fields of Gold
Stroll through Fields of Gold’s Sunflowers at golden hour! Book in advance – an admission includes two adult entrance tickets to the farm, a charcuterie box to share from The Swiss Farmer Bakery, and one you-pick bouquet experience. Be enchanted and feel the magic of sunflowers at sunset! Or, take part in the hottest Mom and kid ticket in town: Stroller Sunflower Strolls. Enjoy a morning at the farm with your kiddos – including an adult entry, a snack box, story time and even a Mom-osa served to parents or caregivers at storytime. Bask in the sun at Fields of Gold.
8. August 3 to 4, and August 10 and 11 - Wynn Farms Sunflower Festival
The forecast for August is sunny! Bask in the beauty of the fields at Wynn Farms Sunflower Festival carrying over for two weekends in August. This family-friendly event includes a bouncy castle, sand pit, face painting, ice cream, pick-you-own sunflower, wandering in the sunflower fields, a colouring context and much more. Make this month mellow yellow!
9. August 3 – Murney Fest in Kingston
Join in the fun to celebrate 99 years of the Murney Tower Museum with history, food, entertainment – fun for the whole family. From yard games to yoga and karaoke to face painting and crafting, Murney Fest is set to be a community event to remember.
10. August 3 - Emancipation Day Block Party in Kingston
A block party with live music, dance workshops, business and food markets cap off the Emancipation Day Celebrations in Kingston from Aug. 1 to 3! Check out all the events with a reception, City Hall illumination, flag raising and more.
Featured Venue - ANDARA Gallery
As we savour these last weeks of summer and gear up for a busy Fall, County Arts member ANDARA Gallery has lots going on to help you enjoy all that the arts has to offer! View one-of-a-kind art by Andrew Csafordi and Tara Wilkinson in their beautiful gallery space and at Sandbanks Estate Winery, attend a jazz concert in the gallery … or take a mini arts workshop in their new ANDARA Studio.
11. August 3 - Princess Street Promenade Kingston
Take a stroll down Princess Street and revel in this popular festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 3 and September 21, 2024! The promenade closes Princess Street to vehicles from Barrie Street to Ontario Street making for the perfect opportunity to enjoy Downtown Kingston. Walk about and visit local shops, grab a bite to eat at downtown restaurants, and spend the day downtown!
12. August 4 - Barbie Dance Party and Drag Show in Cherry Valley
Come on Barbie let’s go party! Dancing! Drag performances! This Barbie Dance Party and Drag Show is sure to be Ken-ough to make your summer memorable. Taking place at the Hayloft Dancehall in Cherry Valley with doors opening at 8:30 p.m. Costumes are encouraged!
13. August 8 to 18 - Three Men on a Bike at the Eddie Hotel and Farm
County Stage Company presents the Guild Festival Theatre production of Three Men on a Bike at the Eddie Outdoor Pavilion. This laugh-out-loud comedy captures the spirit of friendship and adventure! A Guild Festival Theatre production, this delightful journey was created by award-winning writer and director team, Mark Brownell and Sue Miner who offer a theatrical vision of Jerome K. Jerome’s Victorian satire.
14. August 8 to 11 - South Grenville Bluegrass Festival
Get ready for picking and grinning! The South Grenville Bluegrass Festival is ready to heat up the Spencerville Fairgrounds from August 8 to 11, 2024 with lots of remarkable bluegrass talent from as far afield as Maryland and Tennessee. With workshops, open mics, band scramble, a choir, music all afternoon and evening and even a mouth-watering chicken barbecue, this is one event not to be missed!
15. August 8 to 11 - Brockville Ribfest
A real taste of summer! This three-day festival from August 8 to 11, 2024 is in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters Leeds Grenville and has mouth-watering ribs, chicken and more. It wouldn’t be Ribfest without fun for the whole family, so check out the kids zone, live entertainment, Cops and Kids fishing derby, rib eating contest, beach volleyball, vendor village and even a beer tent for the adults!
16. August 9 to 11 – Sheep Dog Trials in Joyceville
The Kingston Sheep Dog Trials and Canadian Border Collie Association National Championship is set to be a barking good time! Taking place at Grass Creek Park, see these working dogs strut their stuff and be amazed by their agility, focus and intelligence. Entrance fee is $10 for adults with kids under 10 years old in for free! Also on site is food and artisans, as well as the Canadian Raptor Conservancy with two shows daily featuring birds of prey.
17. August 9 to 25 - Muskoka Arts & Crafts exhibition County Arts Lab
Check out something new for a different perspective! For the first time, artwork by Muskoka Arts & Crafts members will be exhibited in PEC through an art exchange exhibition with the Prince Edward County Arts Council. Come see new artwork at 206 Main Street, Unit 2E Picton in the historic armoury building. The opening reception is taking place Aug. 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free admission!
18. August 9 to 11 – Merrickville Fair
A one-of-a-kind country fair! The Merrickville Fair is fun for the whole family with loads of animals shows, petting zoo, tractor pulls, blacksmithing demos, corn hole tournament, touch a truck, horse pull, beef and cattle open show, exhibits, and nightly live music entertainment! Three days of community and agricultural – a true summertime event.
19. Every weekend - Festival Vibes at Parsons Brewing Company
Live music and family-friendly activities – every weekend! Festival Vibes is a summer-long weekend event at Parsons Brewing Company in Prince Edward County. See the full lineup of artists gracing the stage at Parsons and plan to attend!
20. August 9 to 11 - Winchester Dairy Fest
Moooove on over to Dairy Fest in Winchester from August 9 to 11 for music, dancing, classic car show, tractor parade, bouncy castles, firefighter games, hearty breakfast, roller skating, beer garden and vendor market – and don’t forget to get in the groove at the dairy dance!
Featured Event
It's the 30th anniversary of the Velo Quebec Grand Tour. This year, the route departs from Plantagenet in Prescott-Russell, taking cyclists through the region's pretty, quiet towns before ending up in their famously atmospheric villages. Party animals and zen cyclists alike will be catered for, with concerts, DJs, a lively bistro, yoga sessions, lectures, and much more.
21. August 10 - Livestock Music and Craft Festival at Second Chance Ranch in L&A County
Live music, handmade crafts and farm animals! Sounds like a banner day. The Livestock Music and Craft Festival is held at Second Chance Ranch where visitors can find everything from jams to artisan jewellery. Top off the day by getting up close to the farm animals that call Second Chance Home!
22. August 10 - Cornwall Waterfest
Check out Cornwall Waterfest for a day of family fun located along the Cornwall Canal! With dragon boat racing, a vendor market, and live DJ entertainment, this is a day you can’t miss. This annual event celebrates its twelfth year of bringing family fun to the Cornwall area in 2024. Food and drink will be available onsite, as well as local artisan vendors.
23. August 10 to 11 - Tyendinaga Tradition Pow Wow
This event from August 10 to 11 sees First Nation communities come together to socialize, dance, sing, and honour the ceremonies of Ancestors. Visitors of all ages can spend the day immersed in traditional food, arts and culture – be sure to stop by more than 90 Indigenous vendor booths, too!
24. August 10 to 11 - Laser-Guided Stargazing Tours
A great way to get acquainted with the night sky! See it as it was meant to be seen at the Lennox & Addington Dark Sky Viewing Area – these popular laser-guided events take place on the Friday and Saturday near a new moon, with an hour-long tour of the night sky. You could even get the chance to peek through a telescope!
25. August 10 - Women’s Art Festival Kingston
Did you know that Kingston is home to the longest running Women’s Art Festival in Canada? This year marks the 41st year of the Women’s Art Festival, so mark your calendar for Aug. 10 in City Park and find more than 150 artists in an enthralling marketplace, music, kids activities, local eats, art installations and more. Celebrate women’s creativity in the arts! From paintings and ceramics to photography and jewellery, there's something to captivate every artistic taste. Throughout the years, the festival has donated more than $150,000 to over 50 local charities supporting women and children in Kingston.
26. August 10 - Comedy Country at County Cider
Picture this: laughter, a beautiful view and great bevies! Sounds like a summer core memory in the making. Join in the fun for an evening of live comedy overlooking picturesque Waupoos Bay.
27. August 11 – Centennial Celebration of Gananoque Horticultural Society Park
Step back in time! The Gananoque Horticultural Society is celebrating the Centennial of The Park on the corner of Main and Mill Streets. See a theatrical presentation, listen to 1920s music, enjoy refreshments and tour the park and gardens. Open to everyone – come mingle with members starting at 1 p.m.
28. August 13 to 31 - PEC Jazz Fest
From classic to cutting-edge modern and everything in between! With almost three decades of jazz performance and music education under its belt, PEC Jazz Fest is the premier music festival of the summer in The County. Look for the 2024 instalment of The Prince Edward County Jazz Festival from August 13 to 18, as it brings together top jazz talent, from local heroes to international stars. A true jazz lover's festival!
29. August 14 to 18: Discover L&A County MEGA Geocaching
Did you know that Canada’s largest annual geocaching event is held in Napanee? That’s right! More than 1,000 visitors from across North America, Europe and beyond are coming to Napanee on Aug. 14 to 18, 2024 to take part. With a water cache canoe and kayak cruise, night sky stargazer tour, kick off events and more than 1,500 geocaches in L&A County it’s a fun-filled weekend!
30. August 14 and 21 - Sunset ceremony at Fort Henry
A sunset event you won’t soon forget! Fort Henry’s Sunset Ceremony combines the talented Fort Henry Guard’s impressive marching manoeuvers, drills, music and be mesmerized by the cannon firing as the evening culminates in a stunning fireworks finale! Tickets required.
31. August 15 to 18 - Poutine Feast Brockville
A travelling poutine festival, you say?! Sign us up! Poutine Feast showcases the best poutine vendors from across Ontario. Set to roll into Brockville at Centennial Park from Aug. 15 to 18 - visit Canada’s largest touring poutine fest and find your favourite! Vegan and gluten-free options available.
32. August 15 to 18 - Vankleek Hill Fair
The fairgrounds will come alive with excitement from August 15 to 18 as the fair lights up the community for its 180th year! Witness the impressive machinery displays and savour delicious treats, interact with animals, enjoy rides or the artisan exhibits, experience the legendary combine derby (!) and the action-packed North American Six-Horse Hitch Classic. Wrap up with demolition derby, sheep shearing, heavy horse line classes, antique tractor pull and more! Rural life at its best – since 1844.
33. August 16: The Homecoming Tour at Laluxe Femme
Books, bodies and being yourself! Teri Hofford will be at Laluxe Femme at 260 Wellington Main St. in Prince Edward County. This event invites participants to be authentically themselves – with body positivity, books about self love, plus size community building and more. Your ticket price reserves your spot and then it’s boutique credit!
34. August 16 to 18: Belleville Caribbean Festival
Embark on a Caribbean adventure in the heart of Downtown Belleville! Feel the rhythms of reggae, soca, calypso, and other genres as talented musicians take the stage; enjoy the flavours of Caribbean cuisine; Get your groove on and join the lively street parade and more!
35. August 16 to 17 and 23 to 24 - Movie nights at Kingston Penitentiary
See a movie in the iconic Kingston Penitentiary! This summer, Kingston Pen Tours welcomes back a series of outdoor movie screenings – outdoors and after dark! Bring your own chair and arrive early at this unique film experience. See Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on Aug. 16; Shutter Island on Aug. 17; Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl on Aug. 23 and Oppenheimer on Aug. 24. Guests will also view a feature area of Kingston Penitentiary and experience a special presentation that relates to the screening.
36. August 17 and 18 - Doors Open Cornwall SDG Counties
Want free access to unique and historic buildings and places in Cornwall and SDG Counties? Get a behind-the-scenes look during Doors Open August 17 to 18! From historical houses to modern marvels of construction, Doors Open has something for everyone.
37. August 17 – Art in the Garden Vankleek Hill
Get up close with more than 60 artists and artisans as they display and sell their work at Art in the Garden, the annual summertime show organizes by St. John’s Anglican Church in Vankleek Hill. Artists line the laneway leading up the church, as well as taking over the interior for this community art show which showcases the creative side of Vankleek Hill!
38. August 17 - Bourget Community Market
Find local vendors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on along the Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail near the Bourget Pavilion on Levis Street! This event is a special opportunity to discover fresh products and unique crafts from the region, while supporting local producers and having good times listening to our local talents.
39. August 18: Confessions of Motherhood at Base31
Join in the confessional! Jennifer Stewart delivers an intimate recollection of the trials, frustrations and uncertainties experienced during one woman’s journey to motherhood. Find songs, stories, and questions during this personal look at what it takes to be a mother today. Running two shows in the Pilot Lounge at Base31, 343 County Road 22, Picton at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
40. August 18 - Through the Lands of the Lost Villages Bus Tour and BBQ
Full of interest and intrigue! Join in a fully guided tour of the locations and the heritage of the flooded villages of Lake St. Lawrence. With guide Lost Villages Historical Society President, Jim Brownell, the bus leaves the Lost Villages Museum at 1 p.m. and returns at 5 p.m. for a BBQ. Cost is $40/person. Reservations are required. Tickets are available online.
41. August 18 - MacKinnon Brothers Back to the Farm
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 – best book the next day off work now. Watch for artist announcements coming soon!
42. August 23 to 24: - Buskerfest in Downtown Belleville
This extraordinary event promises a dazzling array of performances by world-class entertainers, alongside many local talents! Be captivated with the unique artistry of busking while enjoying an electric atmosphere that celebrates creativity, skill, and community. This one’s a crowd pleaser and draws lots of folks from near and far.
43, August 23 to 31 - BIGLAKE Festival in PEC
From August 23 to 31, explore the evolution of elements of music in PEC! See exceptional artists from around the globe in befitting locations around the County. Explore the artists in this year’s festival and get your tickets early! Candlelight concerts, a musical and edible promenade, Canadian pianist Louis Lortie’s appearance with an all-Chopin program, and even a Beethoven Marathon of all 10 Sonatas for violin and piano, BIGLAKE is sure to be an inspiring and moving festival.
44. August 23 – Tunes for Tails in Kingston
Enjoy a free concert in Springer Market Square celebrating 140 years of compassion with Kingston Humane Society! Artists include Miss Emily, The Wilderness and Evan Rotella. Wag on down and have some summer fun with superb live music.
45. August 24: Forest Festival in Plainfield
Nine artists performing on a forest stage? Yes, please! From 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on August 24, 2024 plan to attend this magical event, an arts festival celebrating folk music, nature based art and rural life on a 76 acre horse farm north of Belleville. Family friendly!
46. August 23 to 24: Rock the County Music Festival at Base31
Are you ready to rock, Prince Edward County? This spectacular two-day music event will ignite your senses and rock your world from August 23 to 24, 2024. Featuring headliners, The Glorious Sons, The Trews and Matt Mays, performing at The Drill Hall, Base31’s big-sound indoor performance venue!
47. August 24 – 1000 Islands Art Festival Gananoque
A showcase of fine art – meet the exhibiting artists as they are demonstrating their craft with Plein air and chats about the art. Painters, potters, gold and silver smiths, fiber artists and glass artists! Find the 1000 Islands Art Festival in Sculpture Park in Gananoque from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.!
48. August 24 – Upper Canada Folkfest Prescott
Celebrating and promoting folk music in Eastern Ontario at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre on Prescott’s waterfront! The fifth annual Upper Canada Folkfest is set to be one to remember featuring Twin Flames, Aleski Campagne, Ray Harris, Briana Doyle, Graham Lindsey and Emma Lamontange. Craft beer and snacks on site, incredible music all overlooking the St. Lawrence River, gardens and marina!
49. August 24 and 25 - Cornwall Triathlon
Did you know the Cornwall Triathlon has raised more than $300,000 for local charities in the past? Kids Day is Saturday, Aug. 24 where young champions are offered an initiation into the sport in a fun, non-timed environment. Then on Sunday, Aug. 25 the adult events take place, including Olympic triathlon, sprint duathlon, spirit triathlon, try a tri and more events. The Cornwall events are unique in that they offer traffic-free courses in the city’s core on both days. Everyone welcome whether athletes, volunteers or spectating!
50. All of August at Hotel Wolfe Island: Live Music
From open mics to feature artists such as Clear Breeze, AT343, The Special Constables and much more there is live music almost every night of the week here! Get your toes tapping and have dinner and show at Hotel Wolfe Island.
51. Thursdays throughout August at The Cove in Westport
Catch some live original songs from great songwriters and performers! From the Spencer Evans Trio at jazz nights to Juno Award Winner Garrett Mason to comedian Tom Green the stage is alive with entertainment that you’ll still be talking about the next morning. Spice up your August!
52. August 26 to August 31: Canadian Plowing Championship on Wolfe Island
Witness the impressive talents of agriculture greats at the Canadian Plowing Match being held at the Morningsight Farm at 161 Reeds Bay Road on Wolfe Island! Being held at the host farm of Henry and Janine Handforth, contestants will be competing to become the Canadian Plowing Champion in the Senior Conventional, Senior Reversible and Junior Conventional classes.
53. August 31 – Verona Lions Club Garlic Festival
What’s that smell? A summertime garlic festival, of course! Head over the Verona Lions Hall from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. There will be lots of vendors in attendance and is a great place to get your local garlic, fantastic food, and other goodies. There is free parking and admission is by donation!
Plus, look what's on throughout August for multiple dates:
Community Fairs in L&A County
The Napanee Fair on August 2 to 5 and the Odessa Fair from August 16 to 18 promote agricultural awareness and bring some good old-fashioned family fun to the community. Come for livestock shows, tractor pulls, derbies, lots of kids' programming, music, rides and, of course, the food!
Throughout August - Thousand Islands Playhouse Gananoque
Canada’s Dockside Theatre has another sizzling summer ready on stage! With Mamma Mia, Jesus Christ Superstar, Mary’s Wedding, Murder for Two and more, it’s sure to be a summer of memorable theatre in Gananoque.
August Farm Tours – Stealing the Bloom Farm Rideau Lakes
Get a firsthand glimpse into the workings of a small-scale agricultural enterprise at Stealing the Bloom Farm near Westport. Meet the animals and learn about biodynamic gardening, rotational grazing, animal husbandry, farm systems, and more! Book a farm tour and stop by for an immersive and educational experience.
Until August 17 - St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival
Shakespeare against the beautiful backdrop of the St. Lawrence in Prescott—yes, please! The only professional outdoor theatre in the St. Lawrence Seaway area is on stage at the gorgeous venue on Prescott’s waterfront. Witness the imaginative The Tempest from July 13 to August 10 and She Stoops to Conquer from July 17 to August 10. The season will finish with Play On! A Shakespeare-inspired Mix Tape, August 13 to 17, 2024.
Until August 18 - Kick and Push Festival
Rave reviews for this innovative performance festival keep the crowds coming back year after year. The Kick and Push Festival in Kingston is a professional, three-week festival featuring award-winning Canadian performers and award-winning work in venues all over the city. Taking place until Aug. 18, the tenth season of the Kick and Push Festival pushes the boundaries of what traditional theatre can be!
No matter where you are this August in South Eastern Ontario it’s sure to be full of good times and summer fun!