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Grand River Dinner Cruises
Looking for an idea of what to do this August long weekend? August long stands out as one of the most bustling days of the year for highway travel, primarily due to the influx of families embarking on camping and cottage trips.
The Civic holiday falls on the first Monday of August every year. Although it isn’t a statutory holiday across Canada, it is one across many. Hence, it earns its designation as a “civic” holiday, as each province and city retains the autonomy to declare it as they see fit.
British Columbia
August long is known as British Columbia Day in BC. Since it is a statutory holiday, you have three days to celebrate.
Many events and celebrations run all weekend on BC Day. There is the Harmony Arts Festival, Pride Parade, the Maple Ridge Caribbean Festival, and many fireworks.
Whether you plan to stay in Vancouver and hit up as many festivals as you can or retreat to one of the many provincial parks for a quiet weekend, there is plenty to do on BC Day.
- Festivals during BC Day Weekend in and around Vancouver
- BC Day Weekend in Kelowna
- BC Day Long Weekend Around Victoria
- Things to Do During August in BC
Alberta
In Alberta, the first Monday of August is known as Heritage Day. Though it is not considered a statutory holiday, many businesses and people across the province will still take the day off. It was declared Heritage Day in 1974 as a day for the province to celebrate the different cultural heritage of Albertans.
The Crowsnest Pass Doors Open and Heritage Festival starts the Thursday before and continues into the weekend. There is the Calgary International Blues Festival and Heritage Festival in Edmonton, and in Camrose, there is the Big Valley Jamboree for all the country fans out there.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Day is what August long is known in the province of Saskatchewan. It is considered a statutory holiday in which the majority of the province has the day off. Many people go away for the weekend or stay to be entertained by some of the events and festivals that occur.
The biggest summer fair hits the capital city of Regina over the long weekend, Queen City Ex. In Saskatoon, Nutrien Fringe Theatre Festival takes over Broadway Street is a family-friendly event filled with entertainment.
- Saskatchewan Day Weekend in Saskatoon
- Saskatchewan Day Weekend in Regina
- Things to Do this August in Saskatchewan
Manitoba
In Manitoba, August long weekend is known as Terry Fox Day. It is not a statutory holiday. The name comes from the Manitoba-born Terry Fox, known across the country as a hero for his efforts to raise money for cancer in 1980.Pioneer Days in Steinbach and Folkarama, are two of the biggest events this weekend.
- Terry Fox Day Weekend in Winnipeg
- Festivals in August in Manitoba
- Things to Do During August in Manitoba
Ontario
August long weekend is unique in Ontario. The major cities across the province each have a different name that is to honour important people in the province’s history. For example, Toronto calls the holiday Simcoe Day after John Graves Simcoe. Ottawa refers to the day as Colonel By Day in honour of John By. It is called Joseph Brant Day in Burlington, Alexander Mackenzie Day in Sarnia, McLaughlin Day in Oshawa, Benjamin Vaughan Day in Vaughan, George Hamilton Day in Hamilton, Founders’ Day in Brantford, James Cockburn Day in Cobourg, Peter Robinson Day in Peterborough, and John Galt Day in Guelph.
50+ Festivals happening across the province, from Ribfests to grand parades and fireworks during August Long Weekend in Ontario.
August Long Weekend in
— Toronto
— London
— Hamilton
— Ottawa
Quebec
1st Monday in August is not a holiday in Quebec, but if you are heading to the La belle province in August, here is a list of things to do: 50 Things to Do This August in Quebec.
Newfoundland and Labrador
As with Quebec, the long weekend of August is not a holiday in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, they have their own celebrations in St. John’s to celebrate Regatta Day.
It is also known as “The Largest Garden Party in the World.” Up to 50,000 people gather to watch the Royal St. John’s Regatta, a rowing race that is the oldest organized sporting event in North America.
This event has been going on for roughly 200 years.
New Brunswick
Instead of being called a Civic holiday, August long is called New Brunswick Day in this province. It is a statutory holiday for residents to celebrate the history, culture, and landscape of their province.
Awards are presented to businesses and residents who work hard to improve the life where they live. Lots of communities hold birthday parties for New Brunswick. A notable event to check out is the Area 506 Festival which is full of music and food.
Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, the August long weekend is known as Natal Day. It is a day to celebrate Nova Scotia’s “birthday,” and many residents host birthday parties across the province.
In the communities of Halifax and Dartmouth, you usually will find large Natal Day celebrations that have fireworks, live entertainment, and even a large birthday cake.
Prince Edward Island
The first Monday in August is also known as Civic Day in Prince Edward Island and is observed as a statutory holiday.
Enjoy PEI Truck and Tractor Pull Championship, Atlantic Fiddlers Jamboree, Rock the Boat Music Festival, Jacques Cartier Sandcastle Building Competition and more during this long weekend.
Territories
Nunavut celebrates August long as a Civic holiday and is a provincial statutory holiday.
As with Nunavut, the Northwest Territories has a Civic holiday, a provincial statutory holiday. There are two well-known events over the weekend.
The Old Town Ramble and Ride brings together Old Town merchants, artists and musicians to show off the uniqueness of the area. There is also the Slave River Paddlefest for guided river trips.
Yukon does not have a civic holiday on the first Monday of August. Instead, they celebrate Klondike Gold Discovery Day on the third Monday of August. The day is there to celebrate the history of the gold discovered at Bonanza Creek in 1896.
Celebrations are held in Dawson City, the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush. The Discovery Days Festival brings exhibitions, art and craft fairs, parades, and more.
34 Fair St, Maxville
August 1, 2025 To August 2, 2025
$30
Since the first Games were held in 1948, the people of Glengarry have extended close to a million welcomes to visitors who come to see what is estimated ... »
Garden Square, Brampton
August 4, 2025
Free
JAMBANA™ One World Festival, represents Canada’s growing cultural diversity in its finest form through performances by internationally acclaimed bands, artists and JUNO Award winners. Feel the ... »
Eau Claire Plaza, 3rd Street & Riverfront Ave SW, Calgary
August 4, 2025
Free
Come join us for the annual Heritage Day Festival at Olympic Plaza! Come for 6 hours of multicultural performances, ethnic foods, and unique handicrafts. Explore the artisan booths, ... »
Strathmore Stampede Grounds, 33 Wheatland Trail, Strathmore
August 1, 2025 To August 4, 2025
Free to$54
Join us for Running with the Bulls, Professional Rodeo, World Professional Chuckwagon Races & more! Tyler Joe Miller kicks off the weekend at the Friday Night Round-Up Concert »
Vanier Park, Whyte Avenue, Vancouver
June 10, 2025 To September 20, 2025
$35 & up
The 2025 Season will include four dynamic productions including Much Ado About Nothing, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again], and ... »
Canadian Museum of History, 100 Rue Laurier, Gatineau
July 30, 2025 To August 16, 2025
$8.50 to $40
Enjoy 4 hours of fire-themed entertainment including world-class pyromusical shows, fiery culinary experiences, prodigious artistic performances, striking digital and multimedia art installations and more! Les Grands Feux is ... »
Fort Langley National Historic Site, 23433 Mavis Avenue, Langley
August 2, 2025 To August 4, 2025
Free
Explore the encampment of re-enactors showcasing the Hudson’s Bay Company era as they swap stories, play music, and show off traditional skills during the B.C. ... »
Various Venues, Squamish
July 31, 2025 To August 3, 2025
Free & Ticketed Events
Squamish Days is a weekend full of excitement, fun and action aimed to make every member of the family smile. There are children's activities, a parade, wacky ... »
Albion Fairgrounds, 23448 Jim Robson Way, Maple Ridge
August 2, 2025 To August 3, 2025
Free
The Annual Maple Ridge Caribbean Festival will heighten all your senses with many Caribbean flavours, right here in your own “backyard” at the Fairgrounds. On our stages, ... »
Various Venues, White Rock
August 2, 2025 To August 3, 2025
Free
The White Rock Sea Festival and Semiahmoo Days returns to the White Rock waterfront for three days of entertainment and family-fun. Enjoy live entertainment, and fireworks will ... »
Various Venues, Delta
August 2, 2025 To August 4, 2025
Free
Join for the largest community festival in South Delta. There's fun for the whole family including drone show, a parade on Monday, marketplace, main stage entertainment, and ... »
Various Venues, Vancouver
August 3, 2025
Free
The Parade and festival brings together thousands of individuals in the LGBTQ2+ community and their allies for a day of fun-filled festivities. The Pride Parade is a ... »
Selo Ukraina Festival Site, Dauphin
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
204 – 622- 4600 / 877-474-2683
Weekend Pass $165/person
Held during august long weekend, the Ukrainian Festival is a celebration of everything Ukrainian. »
Prairieland Park, 503 Ruth St W, Saskatoon
July 31, 2025 To August 7, 2025
306-931-7149
6 Day General Admission $82
The Saskatoon EX is the 6 best days of summer with one-of-a-kind fair foods, first-rate attractions and an amazing concert series! »
AGRIFAIR Exhibition Park, 32470 Haida Drive, Abbotsford
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
$13.69 to $22.90
Head on out the Fraser Valley for the “best little country fair on earth!” Voted Abbotsford’s top community event, the Abbotsford Agrifair has been entertaining families, ... »
Beltine, Calgary
August 1, 2025 To August 18, 2025
FREE
BUMP self-guided mural tours are a perfect way to explore the murals and experience new works of art as they are being created right before your eyes. ... »
STACKT Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
August 3, 2025
Free
Annual Toronto Black Vegan Festival allows you to enjoy vegan meals and delicacies with unique African and Caribbean flavours. The menus range from vegan versions of traditional ... »
1700 Elphinstone Street, Regina
July 30, 2025 To August 3, 2025
306-781-9200
$16 - $60
Join us for five days of incredible food, fun, music, shopping and more at Queen City Ex-Saskatchewan's fair! »
Lake Minnedosa, Minnedosa
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
888-330-8333
General Admission Weekend Pass $279
Three nights of Rock & Roll in the beautiful Lake Minnedosa at the August long weekend. Adding to the music, RFM provides great onsite vendors, camping opportunities and ... »
6303 Bowness Rd NW, Calgary
August 4, 2025
Free
The Tour de Bowness Street Festival & Bike Race, is an annual FREE Family Fun celebration of our historic community of Bowness in northwest Calgary. Hosted ... »
Alberta Beach, AB
August 1, 2025 To August 4, 2025
Free
Polynesian Days (Poly Days) is an annual family event that, for four decades, has continually drawn over 6,000 people every August long weekend to the community of Alberta ... »
Kinsmen Amphitheatre, 101 Water St W, Prescott
July 19, 2025 To August 16, 2025
PWYC to $39
We produce professional productions in an outdoor amphitheatre against the backdrop of the St. Lawrence River in Prescott, Ontario makes for a unique summer theatre experience. »
Marden Park, 7368 Wellington County Road 30, Guelph
August 2, 2025 To August 4, 2025
$12 - $20, depending on age
Come visit the pirate village of Dry Bluffs - a glorious day out for the whole family. There's food and ale; merchants and crafters, and more entertainment ... »
Blyth Festival, 377 Gypsy Lane, Blyth
June 18, 2025 To September 20, 2025
The Flex Pass (4) $225.00 + HST
Blyth Festival’s 2025 season features powerful storytelling, Canadian voices, and bold new works tthat ake centre stage. Nestled in the heart of rural Ontario, the Blyth Festival ... »
Various Shops, Calgary
July 18, 2025 To August 17, 2025
Cost of Food
This summer, participating cafés, restaurants, and creameries compete for the coveted titles of YYC’s Best Scoop, Best Non-Dairy Scoop, and special Golden Scoop award. Support ... »
Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
$60 to $70
Anirevo hosts a variety of programs that encourage and motivate the community to participate in culture exchange. The creation of new experiences allows individuals to meet, socialize, ... »
Various locations, Stratford
July 31, 2025 To August 4, 2025
Free and ticketed events
Discover the potential of the wonderful world of puppetry. Puppetry can expand the possibilities of storytelling, bring new perspectives to complex ideas, and engage wildly diverse audiences. ... »
Port Stanley
August 2, 2025 To August 4, 2025
Free
Bring the entire family to Port Stanley and enjoy all of the unique local offerings that make us such an amazing village and commercial fishing port on ... »
West Vancouver waterfront, 1564 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver
August 1, 2025 To August 10, 2025
Free
Enjoy visual arts, live music, great children’s workshops, food, and entertainment at the annual Harmony Arts Festival. Whether it’s world-class musical performances, inspiring visual art, ... »
Heritage Park Stony Plain, 5100 - 41 Ave, Stony Plain
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
7807183070
$65 - $75 per day
Lineup: Wood Box Heroes, Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road, The Rick Faris Band, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run, The Slocan Ramblers, Magnus Wiik, 9th Avenue All Stars, The ... »
Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
August 2, 2025 To August 3, 2025
4167359954
Free
Discover the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture at theAnnual Taste of India Festival! recognized as the largest food festival of North America and awarded with WORLD BOOK ... »
Various locations, Winnipeg
August 3, 2025 To August 16, 2025
4312948505
$7.50 per ticket (plus applicable service fee)
Multicultural event with traditional meals to lively performances by local, national and international entertainers. Experience over 40 cultural pavilions that feature amazing hospitality and a fun, celebratory atmosphere. »
Fort Malden National Historic Site, 100 Laird Ave S, Amherstburg
August 2, 2025 To August 3, 2025
$5.75-$10.75
Visit period encampments as re-enactors and volunteers recreate the lifestyles of several different time periods. Experience live cooking demonstrations, musical performances, featured talks and historic weapons demonstrations ... »
15km East of Kenaston on Highway 15, Saskatchewan
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
Regular Weekend Passes – $75
The Hillbilly Boogie Music Festival displays Saskatchewan’s best and upcoming Talent. We are the only music festival that promotes 100% homegrown talent. »
Various, Metro Vancouver
June 20, 2025 To August 4, 2025
6048051615
Free
Discover Vancouver’s Yummiest Scoops To Beat The Summer Heat! The Vancouver Ice Cream Festival invites you to its second year to embark on an extraordinary, self-guided ... »
Oppenheimer Park, 400 Powell St, Vancouver
August 2, 2025 To August 3, 2025
6047399388
Free
Come celebrate Japanese Canadian art and culture with us on the BC Day long weekend! This year, there are more than 60 performances and presentations across multiple venues. ... »
Cambridge Battery, Point Pleasant Park, Halifax
July 5, 2025 To August 31, 2025
902-422-0295
$30-$50 or PWYC
SHAKESPEARE BY THE SEA: Atlantic Canada’s longest-running outdoor theater performs in beautiful Point Pleasant Park on a Victorian-era military battery. Robin Hood: The Legendary Musical Comedy ... »
Rundle Park, 2909 113 Ave NW, Edmonton
August 2, 2025
$38.75 to $76.89 plus fees
Water Lantern Festival is a floating lantern event that is all about connections. Water Lantern Festival is filled with fun, happiness, hope, and great memories that you’... »
Hillbilly Boogie Music Festival Site, Kenaston
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
$40-$75
Welcome to the Hillbilly Boogie Music Festival! Whether you’re a seasoned Boogie-goer or new to our festival, ALL Y’ALL ARE WELCOME!! Get ready to kick ... »
Lakers Ski Club, Lac du Bonnet
August 1, 2025 To August 3, 2025
2047925331
$35 - $125
Every year on August Long Weekend we come together to celebrate musicians, virtual artists, side show performers, dancers and artisans alike. The Fire & Water Music Festival ... »
Discovery Harbour, 93 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene
August 2, 2025
705-549-8064
$12.00 per person, kids 5 and under are free
Ahoy, mateys! On Saturday, August 2, 2025, Discovery Harbour sets the scene for an unforgettable day of high-seas hijinks and family-friendly fun. From swashbuckling spectacles and shimmering mermaids to ... »
Various Venues, Vancouver
July 26, 2025 To August 8, 2025
$25-$88
The 55th annual summer festival features more than 50 established international and Canadian early music artists in medieval to romantic repertoire. Artists include keyboardist and Pacific Baroque Orchestra ... »
Various locations, Vancouver
July 19, 2025 To August 10, 2025
Varies
A celebration of COLD drink creations from the vendors of the Hot Chocolate Festival. For 15 years we’ve kept you warm in winter. Now your favourite hot ... »
The Westin Calgary Airport, 671 Aero Dr NE, Calgary
August 4, 2025
4037089900
Free
The 4th Annual INCREDIBLE INDIA FEST will take place on Aug 4th from 12-6pm at The Westin Calgary Airport!!! Experience the magic of India under one ... »
Various Lcations, Kingston
July 24, 2025 To August 17, 2025
Varies
The Kick & Push is an annual innovative live performance festival that takes place in Kingston, Ontario. Our 11th consecutive season is a month-long, and celebrates innovative ... »
Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto
August 2, 2025 To August 3, 2025
(416) 973-4000
$0–$25
Come experience the soul of the Caribbean on the waterfront this Caribana weekend! Saturday, watch DJ Starting from Scratch and Toronto’s favourite soul and R&... »
Franco Boni Theatre, 1115 Queen St W, Toronto
July 30, 2025 To August 2, 2025
$10-25
Cypher Playground celebrates club culture and Toronto street dance history. This four-day street dance festival includes a opening party with a panel discussion on Toronto club history ... »
Town Centre Park, Coquitlam
August 4, 2025
Free
Celebrate BC is packed with fun for everyone! From soaring on the zipline and dancing to live music, to tasting delicious local food , there’s something exciting ... »
Sankofa Square & Coronation Park, Toronto
August 1, 2025 To August 2, 2025
Free
Immerse yourself in the rhythm and soul of the Caribbean at Carnival Village in Sankofa Square and Coronation Park. This cultural hub bursts to life with live ... »
What's on in Edmonton and Alberta Capital Region during August long weekend. including free fun family activities, weekend events & activities for kids, live music, performing arts & theatre ... »
What's on in Calgary during August long weekend including free fun family activities, weekend events & activities for kids, live music, performing arts & theatre and sports events. »
A list of what's On in and around London this Civic long weekend including free, fun family & kids' activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, sports and exhibitions. »
August Long Weekend Events & Activities in Kitchener-Waterloo Region and beyond. A list of What's On in Kitchener-Waterloo region this Civic holiday long weekend including free, fun family & ... »
Visiting Ottawa this August long weekend? Here is a list of events taking place in the Capital city this weekend including free, fun family & kids' activities, live ... »
Visiting Niagara Falls this August Long weekend? Here is a list of things to do including free, fun family & kids' activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, sports ... »
A list of What's On in Regina this Saskatchewan Day long weekend including free, fun family & kids' activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, sports and exhibitions »
A list of What's on this Simcoe day/ Civic day long weekend in Toronto and GTA. »
A list of What's On in Winnipeg this long August weekend/Terry Fox Day weekend. »
Weekend Events & Activities in and around Saskatoon Friday, August 1 – Monday, August 4, 2025 August long weekend events & activities including free, fun family & kids’ activities, live theatre &... »
Wave your rainbow flag and see over 100+ parade entries and amazing floats at Vancouver Pride Parade, enjoy the largest celebration of Japanese Canadian arts & culture held in ... »
Things to do this August Long Weekend in Hamilton Friday, August 1 – Monday, August 4, 2025 August long weekend events & activities including free, fun family & kids’ activities, live ... »
Weekend Events & Activities in and around Kelowna Weekend events and activities in Kelowna include free, fun family & kids’ activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, ... »
The first Monday in August is Natal Day and it is jam-packed with things to do, whichever side of the harbour that you are on. So, gather ... »
Need ideas to enjoy a perfect civic day weekend in Ontario? From finger lickin' good festivals to grand parades and long weekend fireworks, this list of 70+ events ... »
Weekend Events & Activities in and around Victoria Weekend events and activities in Victoria including free, fun family & kids’ activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, ... »