Out and About in Ontario
Canada is a real hot melting pot of different cultures and today they are celebrated in events and festivals across the country with the once rugged frontier land of Ontario in Canada now home to some spectacular events locations that are well worth a visit.
We’re having a look at the city of Sudbury in the south of the province, just north of the mighty Lake Huron. This exciting, multi-cultural city has all the ingredients for a great holiday, including a packed summer schedule full of events that celebrate the rich heritage of the people that inhabit the land.
To help you plan your trip to the vibrant Canadian city we’ve picked out five of the most interesting cultural events that are taking place in and around Sudbury this year.
Picking a place to stay
Sudbury is a small city which really punches above its weight in terms of attractions. This is great for finding places to stay as you’re never far from the city centre, and never that far from something to see or do. The Quality Inn Sudbury is one such hotel that puts you in the heart of the action, within minutes of some of its best sites. After settling down in your hotel you’ll be ready to experience the vibrant activities available. And here are our five top choices:
- Celtic Games
During the European colonisation of Canada, many of the early settlers travelled over from Scotland, Ireland and the west of France. The descendants of these early pioneers are fiercely proud of their heritage which they celebrate each year at the Celtic Festival and Highland Games.
This year the festival and games are taking place over May 31 and June 1 – they promise to deliver a fantastic experience for tourists. A range of great activities will be on show over this weekend, with Scottish dancing competitions, full contact heavy jousting and a traditional highland games which will see Scottish athletes compete with local favourites in impressive battles of strength.
- National Aboriginal day
On June 21 Sudbury will join in with the rest of Canada in celebrating the culture of the indigenous population. There will be the chance for locals and visitors to learn about the history and customs of the First Nations.
Last year the event saw musical performances take place across the city – including a local ‘Aboriginal Idol’ contest that judged contestants on their singing ability and style. Art and crafts were also in focus at displays throughout Sudbury, with this year is likely to be just as exciting as the last.
- Finnish Festival
One of the more surprising ethnic origins of many of Sudbury’s residents is Finland. People of Finnish descent make up a small but proud group and each year they celebrate their roots with the Finnish Canadian Grand Festival, or FinnFun.
This year marks the 74th of the gala event which is taking place from June 27 to July 1. There’ll be Finnish films, Finnish theatre, Finnish music and, to close the festival, a fantastic Finnish free concert complete with reggae music form Conga Se Menne.
- Dragon Boat Festival
There are an impressive 330 lakes within the city limits of Sudbury and the one in Bell Park will come alive with the sounds of drumming and cheering on July 13 as the Sudbury Dragon Boat Festival takes to the water. This festival of Chinese culture has an important role in promoting exercise and community involvement – and it’s tremendous fun too.
Join the crowds on the side of the lake and enjoy the thrills and spills of the races, as well as the products on sale from artists and vendors in the surrounding park. You’ll have a great time while learning something about the rich culture of China.
- Wahnapitae First Nation Pow Wow
On August 17 & 18 the Wahapitae first nation is inviting visitors to come to its annual Pow Wow to the north of Sudbury. The event doesn’t just celebrate the past – it is a heady testament to enjoying life and the dancing and drumming will deliver an exciting memory you’ll never forget.
Rough camping is encouraged by the organisers of the event so grab a tent, pitch up and get ready for a brilliant time. You’ll find delicious local dishes and intricate, uniquely crafted items that’ll make a perfect reminder of your trip.
How are you going to spend your holiday in Sudbury?









