The weather is almost cooperating, and we’re all starting to think about summer. We don’t get the warmest weather in Newfoundland, but we have strong communities and we always make the most of it. So I’ve compiled a list of upcoming events and festivals in and around the St. John’s area, which I hope will be helpful for my clients and readers alike.
June 1 – Annual East Coast Trail Tely Hike Fundraiser
Held in Bay Bulls at the Mickeleens and Spout Paths, this event features hikes for all levels, with prizes, food and entertainment. Register yourself or your team here.
June 1 – 3 Hour Challenge
Residents of Conception Bay South come together to clean up their community, then enjoy an afternoon rally complete with refreshments, prizes and Sky High Amusements.
June 22-23 – St. John’s Day Celebrations
Celebrations include outdoor concerts, historical characters and art and cultural events.
July 1 – Canada Day
Lots of ways to celebrate! Enjoy Canada’s Big Bash (tickets required) with The Navigators and Our Lady Peace on George Street. In CBS, head to the CBS Recreation Complex. Paradise has a full day planned. Mount Pearlites, head to St. David’s Park from 12-3pm, and bring a perishable food item to gain your admission.
July 3 – July 10 – Festival 500
Hear voices from all over the world in this international festival of choral music. Held at the Arts and Culture Centre and Mile One Stadium, you won’t believe your ears. Tickets are available now. The Grand Finale Concert should be particularly great.
July 3 – July 7 – Kelligrews Soiree
Events for all ages, including seniors.
July 10 – July 13 – Wreckhouse Jazz and Blues Festival
150 local, national and international artists converge on St. John’s for an unforgettable experience.
July 19-21 – Mount Pearl City Days
25th annual weekend celebration, including an outdoor concert. Stay tuned for details.
July 27 – Victoria Park Lantern Festival
Months of public lantern-building workshops culminate in this beautiful event in Victoria Park in St. John’s. Expect things to get especially beautiful after dusk.
July 28 – 86th Annual Tely 10
Popular 10 Mile Road Race through Paradise, Mount Pearl and St. John’s, starting on McNamara Drive in Paradise at 7:55am.
August 1 – August 6 – George Street Festival
Join 40,000 other revelers and bands like Blue Rode, Great Big Sea, Hey Rosetta! and Trooper in the big party.
August 7 – Royal St. John’s Regatta
Dating back to 1816, this race and family event needs little explanation! Stay tuned to updates as inclement weather can postpone the date.
August 7 – Family Fun Day at The Still
Held concurrently with the Regatta, from 2-4pm families can participate in entertainment, face painting, hot dogs and refreshments at The Still, on Angler Place in Seal Cove.
August 8 – August 11 – Blueberry Festival
Not too far a drive from St. John’s, Brigus hosts the very popular Blueberry Festival each August. Featuring Screech-Ins, theatre and local talent, dances, fireworks, raffles, good food and of course all the blueberries you could possibly want, this is a great event for the whole family.
August 9 – August 11 – 37th Annual NL Folk Festival
Enjoy the second oldest continuously running folk festival in Canada, held in Bowring Park. This exceptional cultural event is always a big hit.
Aug 9 – Aug 11 – Downtown St. John’s Busker’s Festival
Bring the family downtown to see clowns, musicians and magicians performing in the street.
Aug 10 – Aug 17 – Sunsplash – Paddle in Paradise
Week long community activities culminating in all-day Paddle in Paradise, which includes dragon boat racing, carnival rides and a dunk tank.
August 11 – August 15 – Killick Coast Games
The 2013 Killick Coast Regional Games are a friendly sports competition for local youth, featuring softball, soccer, basketball, ball hockey and cross country running. They’re being co-hosted in Flatrock and Pouch Cove.
August 18 – Pirate Day at Topsail Beach
Arrrrrr! Great fun between 2-4, with shuttle buses running from Topsail Elementary to the beach from 1:30-4:30pm.
August 21 – Family Outdoor Movie
Free outdoor movie at 8:30pm at Upper Three Corner Park, Bauline Line. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs; concessions sold on site.
I’d love to know what events you’re most looking forward to, and what you and your family make sure never to miss. And if I’ve left out any events in your community, please let me know in the comments, so I can add it to the list!