Residents of Thunder Bay, Ontario, and the surrounding area can anticipate a weekend packed with various events including fairs, festivals, and fundraisers. From August 15 to 16, individuals looking to engage with the community have numerous options available such as the Murillo Fair, Westfort Street Fair, Pawchella, Festival of India, and the Summer Matsuri.
The Oliver Agricultural Society is set to host its annual Murillo Fair at the Murillo Fairgrounds in Oliver Paipoonge, Ontario, starting on Friday and running through Sunday. The fair will offer a range of activities from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will include livestock competitions, homecraft exhibits, midway rides, and lawn mower races. Admission prices are $10 for adults, $5 for youth and seniors, and free entry for children under five.
The Westfort Street Fair will make a return on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Frederica Street East, featuring local vendors, businesses, artists, musicians, beer gardens, food contests, and more. The fair aims to celebrate the Westfort community and local businesses.
Additionally, a new dog-friendly festival fundraiser called Pawchella will take place at Kamview Nordic Centre on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. The event will raise funds for appendix cancer care and research through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation’s Northern Cancer Fund. Pawchella will offer various activities including local vendors, agility demonstrations, dog walks, and more.
The Festival of India and Festival of Colours, previously postponed due to wildfires, will return to Marina Park on Saturday and Sunday. The festival will feature cultural performances, live music, wellness activities, food vendors, family entertainment, and a vegetarian dinner feast. Attendees can also enjoy interactive dances, DJs, yoga sessions, and more on the following day.
The Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association will present the Summer Matsuri on Saturday at the West Thunder Community Centre from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This free festival will showcase Japanese Canadian culture, food, arts, and entertainment, including taiko drumming and martial arts demonstrations.
Moreover, Brother John will perform live at the Sundays in the Park Concert at Chippewa Park from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Organizers suggest bringing lawn chairs for the outdoor event.