Thursday, Aug. 22
TD Newmarket Music Series: Newmarket's final free summer concert series takes place at downtown’s Riverwalk Commons from 6 to 9 p.m. with Dwayne Gretzky headlining and Murray Drive opening. Bring a lawn chair and arrive early to secure a spot. Parking is limited due to volume. Bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Newmarket Food Pantry.
Aurora’s Movies in the Park: Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy free showing of Honey I Shrunk the Kids on a large inflatable screen with surround sound at Town Park, 49 Wells St. Arrive early for pre-movie activities, before the film starts at dusk. Bring a blanket, lawn chair and snacks. Enjoy complimentary movie-quality popcorn while supplies last. A food donation for the Aurora Food Pantry is appreciated. To check for weather-related event closures, call the 24-hour special events line at 905-726-4762.
East Gwillimbury Farmers Market: Every Thursday, rain or shine, the farmers market features local vegetables, artisan vendors, meat, cheese, baked goods, honey, soaps until Sept. 28 at the Civic Centre at 19000 Leslie St. in Sharon from 2 to 7 p.m. Some vendors may only accept cash payments.
Richmond Hill Concerts in the Park at Mill Pond, Thursdays: Presented by Tim Hortons, August’s sweet sounds include music by Epic Elton (Aug. 15) and Chicago Transit (Aug. 22). Parking is limited. Attendees can leave their bike at the bike valet booth. Additional free parking is available on concert nights beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the east parking lot of Mackenzie Health.
Friday, Aug. 23
Aurora’s Ribfest, Aug. 23 to 25: Ribfest is a paradise for foodies, with top-tier ribbers serving up finger-licking ribs, smoky pulled pork and juicy chicken, as well as roasted corn on the cob, bloomin’ onions, churros and classic Canadian beavertails. On Friday, SAGA, known for their innovative sound and electrifying performances is the headliner; on Saturday, headliners the Northern Pikes bring their platinum hits and timeless tunes to the stage. See the full entertainment schedule here. There's a children’s zone packed with free activities, and for the adults, a beer garden. Friday 4 to (beer garden 5 to 10); Saturday 11 to 11 (beer garden: noon to 10, children’s zone 2 to 5); Sunday 11 to 8 (beer garden noon to 7 p.m., children’s one 2 to 5) at Machell Park at Yonge Street and Aurora Heights Drive. Parking is limited. Free admission, most vendors accept cash only.
Aurora Bridge Club: Play duplicate bridge weekly with the Aurora club at the Newmarket Veterans Association, 406 Millard Ave., from 12:15 to 4 p.m., open games Wednesdays and Fridays, Thursday 0-500. Price $6 to $10.
All You Can Pick at Lavender Polo Farm: The family lavender farm in East Gwillimbury offers weekly farmer/vendor markets, workshop sessions, monthly events, performances, natural products, and until Sept. 10, all-you-can-pick lavender, with no time limit, in six fields with four types of lavender totalling 100,000+ plants on 155 acres from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 20132 McCowan Rd. Admission ticket(s) required to enter the farm, and for $18 + tax, customers can pick as much lavender as they can fit into a designated bag. Standard bookings/ walkins accepted for $20 + tax/ person subject to last minute availability. Admission is free for children 12 and under. To book, visit: https://www.
Saturday, Aug. 24
Newmarket Car Club Car Show: The Newmarket Car Club hosts its annual car show at Fairy Lake, 520 Water St., Newmarket from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with custom and classic cars, trucks and bikes, DJ, food and vendors. Free to public, $10 vehicle entry fee.
Machell's Alley Live Music in Downtown Aurora: Machell’s Alley, an open-air seating space in downtown Aurora at 15217 Yonge St., features free performances, today Larisa Renée and Michael Allen's jazz and blues-inspired performance from 6 to 8 p.m. More details at exploreaurora.ca.
Aurora’s Ribfest, to Aug. 25: Ribfest is a paradise for foodies, with top-tier ribbers serving up finger-licking ribs, smoky pulled pork and juicy chicken, as well as roasted corn on the cob, bloomin’ onions, churros and classic Canadian beavertails. On Saturday, the Northern Pikes bring their platinum hits and timeless tunes to the stage. See the full entertainment schedule here. There's a children’s zone packed with free activities, and for the adults, a beer garden. Saturday 11 to 11 (beer garden: noon to 10, children’s zone 2 to 5); Sunday 11 to 8 (beer garden noon to 7 p.m., children’s one 2 to 5) at Machell Park at Yonge Street and Aurora Heights Drive. Parking is limited. Free admission, most vendors accept cash only.
Aurora Highlands Hike: Enjoy a fun-filled morning of nature exploration with a guided hike across two important natural areas at the headwaters of Tannery Creek, the Case Woodlot and the Anne Bartley Smith Property. Explore the intersections of nature and the built environment and learn about all the different species and ecosystems that make the Aurora Highlands so special, beginning at the Henderson Drive entrance to Case Woodlot directly across from Watt's Meadow and finish walk at noon at the Anne Bartley Smith Property cul-de-sac at the end of Allenvale Drive. Attendance is by donation ($1 minimum). Free for youth under 18, families and groups. All donations go to neighbourhood stewardship efforts, for more details visit homegrownsociety.org/case-woodlot-guardians.
Richmond Hill Craft Beer Festival: The Richmond Hill Rotary Club's craft beer festival features delicious craft beers from across Ontario, savoury eats and live music, including Between The Static, The Band Excel, The Flyball Govenor Band from 4 to 11 p.m. at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, 10268 Yonge St. Tickets $30.
Newmarket Farmers' Market: The Newmarket Farmers' Market at Riverwalk Commons, on Doug Duncan Drive, where you can connect with local farmers, enjoy delicious treats, discover unique artisans, take in some live music, and enter a draw for a market basket, while visiting with family and friends. The market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. until October.
Aurora Farmers' Market & Artisan Fair: Shop local, shop fresh at the Aurora Farmers' Market Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. until Oct. 26 at 49 Wells St. (northeast corner of Town Park) featuring artisans, farmers, food vendors and community groups.
Outdoor Meditation All Seasons: Join the meditation group every Saturday outdoors in the beautiful setting of Fairy Lake Park at 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., rain or shine. Some mats, cushions, and chairs will be available. Dress appropriately for the weather, and feel free to bring a mat, cushion or folding chair if you like, but not necessary.
All You Can Pick at Lavender Polo Farm: The family lavender farm in East Gwillimbury offers weekly farmer/vendor markets, workshop sessions, monthly events, performances, natural products, and until Sept. 10, all-you-can-pick lavender, with no time limit, in six fields with four types of lavender totalling 100,000+ plants on 155 acres from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 20132 McCowan Rd. Admission ticket(s) required to enter the farm, and for $18 + tax, customers can pick as much lavender as they can fit into a designated bag. Standard bookings/ walkins accepted for $20 + tax/ person subject to last minute availability. Admission is free for children 12 and under. To book, visit: https://www.
Sunday, Aug. 25
Navratri and Janmashtami Celebration: The Samosa Master hosts a Navratri and Janmashtami Celebration with DJ, food stalls, vendors and light refreshments from 5 to 11 p.m. at Madison Greenhouse Event Venue, 1600 Bayview Parkway, Newmarket. For tickets, $20, visit The Samosa Master, 130 Davis Dr., Newmarket or call on 647-325-2509. Free admission for children age four and under.
Aurora’s Ribfest: Ribfest is a paradise for foodies, with top-tier ribbers serving up finger-licking ribs, smoky pulled pork and juicy chicken, as well as roasted corn on the cob, bloomin’ onions, churros and classic Canadian beavertails. See the full entertainment schedule here. There's a children’s zone packed with free activities, and for the adults, a beer garden. Friday 4 to (beer garden 5 to 10); Saturday 11 to 11 (beer garden: noon to 10, children’s zone 2 to 5); Sunday 11 to 8 (beer garden noon to 7 p.m., children’s one 2 to 5) at Machell Park at Yonge Street and Aurora Heights Drive. Parking is limited. Free admission, most vendors accept cash only.
Concert of the Senses with Nadine and Friends: Enjoy music featuring violin, soprano, and organ/piano that will awaken all your senses at Trinity Anglican Church, 79 Victoria St., Aurora, from 7 to 8 p.m. will immerse you in a world of sounds, sights, and emotions. Enjoy melodies by Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, Sarasate, Chopin, and more. Tickets $35.
Newmarket Cycles Group Ride: Explore Newmarket by bike at Newmarket Cycles’ free family-friendly group ride from 3 to 4 p.m., starting and ending 470 Davis Dr. Rides are typically about 10 km long and explore trails, quiet residential streets, and local cycling infrastructure. No registration required.
All You Can Pick at Lavender Polo Farm: The family lavender farm in East Gwillimbury offers weekly farmer/vendor markets, workshop sessions, monthly events, performances, natural products, and until Sept. 10, all-you-can-pick lavender, with no time limit, in six fields with four types of lavender totalling 100,000+ plants on 155 acres from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 20132 McCowan Rd. Admission ticket(s) required to enter the farm, and for $18 + tax, customers can pick as much lavender as they can fit into a designated bag. Standard bookings/ walkins accepted for $20 + tax/ person subject to last minute availability. Admission is free for children 12 and under. To book, visit: https://www.
Coming up:
Aurora's Concerts in the Park, Wednesdays: The Town of Aurora and TD Bank Group host free live music every Wednesday at Aurora Town Park from 7 to 9 p.m. Bring a non-perishable food donation for the Aurora Food Pantry for a chance to win a prize pack. Bring your own chairs. Final concert on Aug. 28 is Abbamania, the world’s No. 1 tribute to Abba. To check for inclement weather cancellations, call the 24-hour special events line at 905-726-4762.
Aurora’s Movies in the Park, Thursdays: Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy free movies on a large inflatable screen with surround sound at Town Park, 49 Wells St. Aug. 29 Kung Fu Panda 4. Arrive early for pre-movie activities, as each film starts at dusk. Bring a blanket, lawn chair, and your favourite snacks to enjoy classic movies under the stars. Enjoy complimentary movie-quality popcorn while supplies last. A food donation for the Aurora Food Pantry is appreciated. To check for weather-related event closures, call the 24-hour special events line at 905-726-4762.
Splash of Culture, Thursday, Aug. 29: The Town of Newmarket hosts free musical performances by Blackburn Brothers and Joyride in a unique setting as the Mercedes-Benz Newmarket Skating and Water Feature at Riverwalk Commons is transformed into a beautifully lit stage complete with a baby grand piano, beginning at 8 p.m. Tables and chairs will not be available at this year's event, bring your own seating.
Newmarket International Festival of One Act Plays, Sept. 5 to 8: The 8th annual Newmarket International Festival of One Act Plays returns to the Old Town Hall.
Thursday opening night red carpet is at 6:45 p.m., featuring charcuterie and finger foods by A Million Mouthfuls and live entertainment by Love &
Light Muses, with show time at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday show times 8 p.m.; Sunday matinee at 2 p.m., with a family friendly show written, directed and
performed by The V.U.T.C. Young Company. Tickets $25 ($22.50 if purchased before Aug. 25), seniors $20 ($17.50 before Aug. 25.) Festival passes for all days $50. Box office at NewRoads Theatre, 505 Pickering Cres., Newmarket, or at www.newtix.ca. Show nights tickets can be purchased at Old Town Hall one hour before each performance. See full schedule here.
Machell's Alley Live Music in Downtown Aurora Sept. 6, 12, 13, 14: Machell’s Alley, an open-air seating space in downtown Aurora at 15217 Yonge St., features free performances: Sept. 6, the Cecil Street Syncopators, led by Newmarket’s Sean McCarthy, from 6 to 8 p.m.; Sept. 12, Erin Blackstock from 6 to 8 p.m.; Sept. 13, the James Brown Trio, joined by Clark Johnston and Aurora-based drummer Steve Farrugia from 5 to 7 p.m.; Sept. 14, local duo Morris and Brown from 5 to 7 p.m. More details at exploreaurora.ca.
Saturday Night Fever, Saturday, Sept. 7: Saturday Night Fever returns to Yonge Street between Mosley and Wellington streets in downtown Aurora — this year, celebrating women who rock with performances from Tribute to Joan Jett, from Janis to Alanis and headliner Suzie McNeil & the Chain Reaction — from 4 to 11 p.m. You can also enjoy delicious food from on-site restaurant patios while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Bring your own portable chairs. For more information on Saturday Night Fever, visit aurora.ca/SNF.
Garba Festival at Saffron Indian Restaurant, Sept. 13 to 14: All are invited to Saffron Indian Restaurant's Garba celebration with live music, singing and dancing, and Indian street food on two evenings, beginning at 7 p.m. to midnight, outdoors at 297 Wellington St. East, Aurora. Tickets, $25 for one day or $40 for both days, and more information here.
Norman Dance Company, Aurora Town Square Grand Opening, Saturday, Sept. 21: This production, choreographed by Tia Lu, draws inspiration from the four seasonal flowers, illustrating their essences through four different styles of Chinese dance at 7 to 9 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m., in the Performance Hall, 50 Victoria St., Aurora. Tickets $15.45.
York Chamber Ensemble presents Mozart to Movies, Aurora Town Square Grand Opening, Sunday, Sept. 22: YCE brings the excitement of live classical music to Town Square with their Mozart to Movies concert from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Performance Hall, 50 Victoria St., Aurora. Tickets, $21.10.
Marshall Dane, Aurora Town Square Grand Opening, Tuesday, Sept. 24: Marshall Dane is a Canadian singer-songwriter, recording artist, and five-time male artist of the year nominee (CMAO). Dane writes original country songs that cross genres and bridge the gap between mainstream pop, rock, and new country. His performance also features an ASL sign language interpreter, making this an inclusive concert experience. At Performance Hall, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., tickets $33.
Sloan, Aurora Town Square Grand Opening, Friday, Oct. 11: Iconic Juno award-winning Toronto-based rock band Sloan is performing as part of Aurora Town Square’s grand opening celebrations, 9 p.m. at 50 Victoria St., Aurora. Tickets, $55, are on sale now at aurora.ca/WhatsOn.
