Residents of Thunder Bay, Ontario, and the surrounding area have an exciting weekend ahead with a variety of events to enjoy. From August 15 to 16, individuals can partake in a range of activities including the Murillo Fair, Westfort Street Fair, Pawchella, Festival of India, and the Summer Matsuri.
Embracing their agricultural heritage, the Oliver Agricultural Society will hold the annual Murillo Fair at the Murillo Fairgrounds in Oliver Paipoonge, Ontario, starting Friday and running through Sunday. The fair will feature livestock competitions, homecraft exhibits, midway rides, and lawn mower races. Admission prices are $10 for adults, $5 for youth and seniors, while children under five enter for free.
The Westfort Street Fair will make a return on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Frederica Street East, showcasing local vendors, businesses, artists, musicians, food contests, and more. This free event celebrates the Westfort business district and community.
A new dog-friendly festival fundraiser, Pawchella, will be held at Kamview Nordic Centre on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. The event aims to raise funds for appendix cancer care and research through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation’s Northern Cancer Fund. Attendees can enjoy various activities including local vendors, agility demonstrations, and dog walks.
After being postponed, the Festival of India and the Festival of Colours will return to Marina Park over the weekend. Residents can participate in the Jagannath Rath Yatra parade and enjoy live cultural performances, yoga activities, henna, vendors, and a vegetarian feast. The Summer Matsuri, presented by the Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association, will celebrate Japanese Canadian culture with taiko drumming, martial arts demonstrations, and a variety of Japanese and Asian foods.
For those interested in live music, Brother John will perform for free at the Sundays in the Park Concert at Chippewa Park from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for the outdoor event.