As August winds down and September begins, Thunder Bay is closing out summer with music, creativity, and community spirit. From waterfront concerts and aerial spectacles to splash-worthy fun and long-standing Labour Day traditions, here’s what’s happening August 28–September 3:
Live on the Waterfront – Pop Night & Drone Light Show
Location: Festival Area, Marina Park
Date: Thursday, August 28 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Thunder Bay’s premier outdoor concert series wraps up with Pop Night, part of the Live on the Waterfront Summer Send-Off.
Enjoy a full evening of live music featuring:
- 6:30 PM – Cassidy Houston
- 7:30 PM – Katherine Nemec
- 8:30 PM – The Lockyer Boys
Starting at 6:30 PM, enjoy live music leading into the Drone Light Show, a dazzling aerial display presented in partnership with Thunder Bay Airport. Watch as they light up the sky in a spectacular send-off to summer.
More info: thunderbay.ca/live
AmberJam at TBCA – Featuring Five Alarm Funk
Location: Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, 1 Paul Shaffer Drive
Date: Friday, August 29 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Tickets: $40
For the first time ever, AmberJam Music Festival moves from its traditional lakeside setting at Amberlite Wilderness Resort to the heart of the city—Thunder Bay Community Auditorium.
This year’s edition features a high-energy Mainstage performance by Five Alarm Funk, plus live music on the in the lobby and out on the patio.
AmberJam celebrates Thunder Bay’s homegrown musical talent while welcoming back Five Alarm Funk from Vancouver.
More info: tbca.com
Toonie Swims – Friday Night Splash Deal
Location: Canada Games Complex
Date: Friday, August 29 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Friday plans? We’ve got a splash-worthy deal!
Toonie Swims are back—just $2 admission from 6–8 PM every Friday.
Bring your family, bring your friends, and dive in for an affordable night of fun in the pool.
Female Border Collective Skate
Location: Cinema 5 Skatepark, 115 Cumberland Street
Date: Sunday, August 31 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Every Sunday, the Female Border Collective hosts a welcoming skate session at Cinema 5 Skatepark. Whether you’re new to skating or a seasoned rider, come out and roll with a supportive community.
More info: cinema5skatepark.ca
Nipigon Fall Fishing Festival – Labour Day Weekend Fun
Location: Nipigon, ON
Dates: August 30 – September 2
Celebrate Labour Day weekend with a true Northwestern Ontario tradition! The Nipigon Fall Fishing Festival offers four days of family fun including:
- Fishing derby
- Live music
- Vendors and food trucks
- Kids’ activities
- Beer gardens
- Community pancake breakfast
- Parade and fireworks
Whether you’re casting a line or enjoying the festivities, this festival is a great way to wrap up summer.
Full schedule and details: nipigonfallfishingfestival.com
Hymers Fair – A Labour Day Tradition Since 1912
Location: Hymers, ON
Dates: Sunday, September 1 & Monday, September 2
The Hymers Fall Fair is back for its 112th year, offering two days of rural charm and family fun.
Enjoy:
- Livestock shows
- Local produce and baking competitions
- Horse events
- Live music
- Kids’ games and activities
- Vendors, food trucks, and more
This beloved fair is a perfect way to celebrate the long weekend with a mix of tradition and community spirit
Whether you’re dancing under the stars, cheering on local talent, or soaking up the last long weekend of summer, Thunder Bay and its surrounding communities are ready to celebrate.
See you out there!
