Popular Events & Festivals
Lindsey Wooldridge
There are tons of great festivals, concerts, and events in Canada, especially during the summer. Some of Bakpak Guide’s favorites are:
Toronto International Film Festival
The largest film festival in North America. Films of all kinds including contemporary, non conventional, documentary, short and experimental will be shown by film makers from all over the world. Get your coupons, passes or individual tickets in advance - crowds are large. Sept 10-19. (416) 968-FILM
The Fringe: Toronto’s Theater Festival
Over 90 independent theatre companies from Canada, the US and around the world will stage over 670 performances including drama, comedy, stand-up, musicals, dance, multi-media, improv and more. Max ticket price $8. July 1 to 11. (416) 966-1062
Vancouver Int’l Jazz Festival
The biggest names in jazz hit various venues in the Vancouver area. There’s also a free New Orleans-style street festival held in Gastown for 2 days.
Jun 26-July 5. (604) 872-5200
Vancouver Int’l Comedy Festival
Held on Granville Island, this festival features a mix of comic artists from around the world. Over 120 free outdoor performances. September 17-27. (604) 685-0881
Calgary Stampede
Calgary’s largest event with 10 days of rodeo, stage shows, agricultural exhibits and a parade. At the Stampede Grounds. July 3-12. (800) 661-1767
Canada Day (Ottawa)
A massive celebration of Canada’s birthday, complete with street performers, food, games, performances, Canadian traditions, and fireworks! July 1. http://www.canadaday.gc.ca/
Ottawa's One World Film Festival
A film and video festival dedicated to helping aspiring filmmakers display their works about the issues of issues of social justice, human rights and the environment. October 29 – November 6. http://wiam.ca/programs/one-world-film-festival/
Banff Sunshine Village Slush Cup
Marking the last ski event of the season, the Slush Cup features skiers and snowboarders daring enough to jump across pools of ice water. Really entertaining! Mid May. (403)762-6500.
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Featured Articles
Canada is known for many things – snow, success at the winter Olympics, snow, extreme politeness, snow...but one thing it’s not renowned for is gourmet cuisine.
There are loads of quirky mementos you can take home from a trip to Canada: chocolate beaver poop, caps topped with moose antlers and absolutely anything made with maple syrup; but why not set your sights a little higher?
Ask anyone what springs to mind when they think of Canada and it’s most likely to be one of five: moose, Mounties, cold weather, maple leaves or ice hockey.
There are tons of great festivals, concerts, and events in Canada, especially during the summer.
Canada has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, most of which is visible in the country’s national parks.
USA/Canada Hostels Guide
hostels, maps, tours, money saving tips, free things to do... GET YOUR FREE COPY.