Thunder Bay is alive with rhythm, heritage, and heart this week. As summer winds down, the city is turning up the volume with music festivals, cultural celebrations, and community-driven events that bring people together. Whether you’re tapping your toes to mandolin melodies, cheering on tractors in action, or running to support mental health, there’s something meaningful for everyone from September 4–10.
The Green Mandolin – An Evening of Mandolin Music and Song
Location: Urban Abbey, 308 Red River Road
Date: Friday, September 5 | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a beautiful night of mandolin music featuring Connor Loughlin, Jack Haggarty, and TBay Trad Musicians & Friends. This intimate concert supports Partners In Health Canada/Rwanda.
Tickets: $20 at the door | Children 12 & under: Free
Contact:tbaytrad@gmail.com
Wake the Giant Music Festival – A Celebration of Inclusivity & Sound
Location: Thunder Bay Waterfront
Date: Saturday, September 6
One of Thunder Bay’s biggest music events returns with an electrifying lineup including:
- Black Eyed Peas
- Prozzäk
- Neon Dreams
- Crystal Shawanda
- The Poets Tragically Hip Tribute Band
- Wyatt C. Louis
- G DUBZ
Beyond the music, enjoy live art, cultural experiences, local eats, an Indigenous Craft Market, and a Kids Zone.
Admission: Kids 11 & under get in free (ticket still required)
More info: wakethegiant.ca
Rural Heritage Days & 93rd Annual Slate River Plowing Match
Location: 584 Hwy #130, Oliver-Paipoonge
Date: Saturday, September 6 | Gates open at 9:00 AM
Celebrate Thunder Bay’s agricultural roots with plowing competitions, tractor rodeos, antique machinery, live music, kids’ activities, and food booths.
Tractor Parade: 4:00 PM
Admission: $10 per vehicle
Note: Setup and limited activities on Friday, September 5 (no admission fee)
Take It In Strides Run – Supporting Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
Location: Boulevard Lake
Date: Sunday, September 7 | Check-in at 8:30 AM | Run begins at 9:30 AM
- 5K or 10K Run
- 3K Walk
- Virtual Participation
Registration Options:
- Run + Spaghetti Dinner (Sept 6): $50
- Run only: $40
- Walk + Dinner: $30
- Walk only: $20
- 12 & Under + Dinner: $10
- 12 & Under for event only: Free
- Virtual + Dinner: $30
- Virtual only: $20
Proceeds support the Canadian Mental Health Association and Children’s Centre Foundation.
Volunteer opportunities available (high school hours eligible)
Register: takeitinstridesrun.com
Join the second annual run to raise awareness and support for mental health and suicide prevention. Choose your movement:
From music that moves the soul to events that celebrate our roots and support our well-being, Thunder Bay is showing up and showing out. Whether you’re dancing at the waterfront, cheering at the plowing match, or lacing up for a cause, this week is a reminder of the power of community.
See you out there!
