Weekend Events in Thunder Bay, July 3-5

Many locals are probably excited about a weekend full of family-friendly activities after Canada Day in Thunder Bay, Ont.

If you’re looking to get involved in the community, there are several options available in and around the area from July 3 to 5, including art gallery events and Classic Days.

Here are some fun ways families can enjoy their time this weekend, either in or near Thunder Bay.

Honor northern Ontario art and artists

The Thunder Bay Art Gallery will kick off an opening reception for the “2026 Northern Ontario Juried Exhibition,” which celebrates the art and artists of northern Ontario as part of the gallery’s 50th anniversary.

This exhibition will feature over 90 artists from across the region along with more than 100 pieces of artwork. The gallery has also commissioned a new foyer mural titled Making It Up As We Go (2026) by Thunder Bay artist boy Roland to commemorate the anniversary.

This free public event will include food, music, and interactive art activities for all ages, running from 2 p. m. to 5 p. m. on Sunday.

Explore history at Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park

Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park invites heritage fans, families, collectors, and community members to take a step back in time for an afternoon filled with history and nostalgia at Classic Days on Saturday and Sunday.

From 12 p. m. to 4:30 p. m., visitors can check out the Duke Hunt Museum, The Heritage Village, Brill Buses, and Russ’s garage where they’ll see classic cars, antique tractors, model trains, live music, a local vendor market, and much more.

Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park is inviting heritage enthusiasts, families, collectors and the community to step back in time for an afternoon of history and nostalgia at Classic Days on July 4 and 5. (Courtesy of Jean Mayo, Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park’s curator.)

If you own a classic or antique car you’re welcome to bring it along early to join in on the fun; there’s no registration or entry fee required. Visitors will even get a chance to vote for their favorite vehicle for the park’s People’s Choice Award.

The admission fee for Classic Days is $5; kids aged 12 and under get in free – all proceeds go towards supporting ongoing operations and preservation efforts at the park and its museum.

Enjoy art with family and friends

The public can also explore creativity during Family Art Days on Sunday at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery from 1 p. m. to 4 p. m.

<p Whether you’re an experienced art lover or just curious about it all, community members can dive into art exhibitions while igniting their creativity through free activities suitable for all ages.

You’re encouraged to spend some quality moments with loved ones during this event – no experience necessary!

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Family Art Days will be held again on Sunday August 2nd at that same time.

Get a free meal during Family Fishing Week

If visiting the Thunder Bay Art Gallery or Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park isn’t on your agenda this weekend; grab your fishing gear instead! Head out to any provincially approved river or creek nearby for some fishing fun as you catch yourself a tasty snack!

This week until Sunday residents don’t need a fishing license during Family Fishing Week so it’s perfect timing!

The government still reminds everyone to stick with conservation license catch limits as well as size limits while following fishing regulations – don’t forget your permit or ID issued by provincial or federal authorities that includes your name plus date of birth!

If you’re new to fishing you can pick up rods plus reels for free at Ontario provincial parks conservation authorities libraries too!



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