Hamilton is a city that knows how to celebrate. Throughout the year, the city hosts a range of festivals and events that showcase its vibrant culture and diversity. From music and arts to food and sports, there is always something happening in Hamilton. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top festivals and events that you won’t want to miss in the city.
- Supercrawl
Supercrawl is Hamilton’s largest arts and music festival, drawing in over 200,000 visitors each year. The festival takes over several blocks of James Street North, with live music performances, food trucks, art installations, and vendors selling handmade goods. The festival has grown significantly since its launch in 2009 and now attracts big-name musicians from across the country and beyond. Supercrawl usually takes place in September and is free to attend.
- Festival of Friends
The Festival of Friends is one of Canada’s oldest and largest free music festivals, taking place annually in Gage Park. The festival brings together a diverse lineup of local and international musicians, with past performers including Blue Rodeo, The Sheepdogs, and Trooper. In addition to the music, the festival also features food vendors, artisans, and children’s activities. The Festival of Friends usually takes place in August and is free to attend.
- Hamilton Fringe Festival
The Hamilton Fringe Festival is a 12-day event that showcases theatre, dance, comedy, music, and more. The festival takes place at several venues across the city, including Artword Artbar, The Staircase, and Mills Hardware. The festival is known for its eclectic mix of shows, with performers coming from across Canada and beyond. The Hamilton Fringe Festival usually takes place in July and tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- Hamilton International Blues Festival
The Hamilton International Blues Festival is a three-day event that brings together some of the world’s top blues musicians. The festival takes place at the Westdale Theatre, with past performers including Jack de Keyzer, Harrison Kennedy, and Steve Strongman. In addition to the music, the festival also features food and drink vendors. The Hamilton International Blues Festival usually takes place in November and tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- Hamilton Pride Festival
The Hamilton Pride Festival is an annual celebration of the city’s LGBTQ+ community, featuring a range of events including a parade, live music, drag shows, and a vendor market. The festival takes place in Gage Park and draws in thousands of visitors each year. The Hamilton Pride Festival usually takes place in June and is free to attend.
- Winona Peach Festival
The Winona Peach Festival is a long-standing tradition in Hamilton, celebrating the city’s agricultural heritage with a focus on peaches. The festival takes place in Winona, with vendors selling peach-based foods such as pies, ice cream, and jam. The festival also features live music, carnival rides, and a parade. The Winona Peach Festival usually takes place in August and is free to attend.
- Hamilton Film Festival
The Hamilton Film Festival is a week-long event that showcases independent films from across Canada and around the world. The festival takes place at several venues across the city, including the Playhouse Cinema and The Staircase. In addition to film screenings, the festival also features panel discussions and networking events. The Hamilton Film Festival usually takes place in November and tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
- Hamilton Ribfest
Hamilton Ribfest is an annual event that celebrates all things barbecue. The festival takes place at Gage Park, with vendors from across North America serving up their best ribs, chicken, and pulled pork. In addition to the food, the festival also features live music.