Thunder Bay Buskers Festival is returning to Bay & Algoma on July 25 and 26.
The street will be closed off for free performances from jugglers, aerialists, daredevils, musicians and artists from Canada and beyond.
“There’s a bigger crew helping out this year and people are kind of getting behind it more,” said Buskers Festival co-founder Uriel Lubuk. “I’m excited for the excitement and the diversity and just to bring joy to people for a couple days in this crazy world.”
Buskers Fest is free and for all ages. According to co-organizer Caitlin Jeffs, it’s one of only around 15 busker events of its size in all of Canada.
“[Busking] is such a tight community around the world that once you get a group that comes and performs and they like it, then all of a sudden you get these applications from people all over the world,” Jeffs said. “It’s exciting that people want to come here to Thunder Bay.”
Without further adieu, here are five of the performers announced for the 2026 Thunder Bay Buskers Festival (via Bay Media PR):
- The Twins’ Trip
“A duo formed by Emilio and Leandro Ponce, twin brothers from Argentina who have been nomads, performers and endless students since 2014. Their knowledge and skills in the circus world didn’t come from a formal school, but from the road itself — learning from artists they met, cultures they discovered, and the countless stages they stepped on. They have performed in over 30 countries, with their work featured on TV shows including Bulgaria’s Got Talent.“
- Scott Jackson
“A Canadian Beatbox Champion, a Canada’s Got Talent finalist and renowned vocal artist, Scott Jackson has performed in 18 countries and at NBA halftime shows. With nearly two decades on stage, he brings world-class beatboxing talent and unforgettable energy. Martin Short famously remarked, “There’s an insanity to [his] talent.” Scott remains a cornerstone of the global beatbox community.“
- Brett Oddly
“A high-energy variety act from Winnipeg blending magic, juggling, sideshow stunts and daring escapes. Known for pushing the limits (and occasionally his own safety), he delivers a mix of jaw-dropping tricks, sharp humour, and edge-of-your-seat danger that pulls crowds in and keeps them there. Part magician, part daredevil.“
- Hercinia Arts Collective
“This Ontario-based circus company brings HASA, a bold all-female aerial production inspired by outer space. Featuring hoop, straps and silks, it’s a visually stunning performance packed with strength, grace and suspense.”
- Jay Henderson
“Fast, fearless and hilarious. Jay has the energy of ten puppies with none of the mess and the attention span of a goldfish (with none of the mess). He performs the fastest and most furious apple juggling you are ever likely to see, and walks barefoot on broken glass while juggling flaming torches. Pair that with tossing knives atop a terrifying tower of tables treacherously teetering on a tube, and you end up with a show that can’t be missed!”
This year’s Buskers Fest will include a beer garden, kids zone and over 50 vendor booths. Jeffs says there will be more than 10 different food options as well.
“Buskers Festival reminds people what a street can feel like when its alive, and the whole community becomes part of the show,” Jeffs said.
Jeffs mentioned she personally is most excited for Scott Jackson’s performance. She says this year’s festival should be the biggest to-date.
“It’s always been about the neighbourhood, showcasing the shops and local crafters, food vendors, and musicians. It’s heartwarming and I’m super elated that we got such a robust variety of talent applying,” Lubuk said. “We’re too legit to quit.”
