❓ Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL EVENT QUESTIONS

Q: How can I find out about upcoming City of Thunder Bay events?
 A: You can find all upcoming events right here on our website or follow us on social media (@CityofThunderBay). You can also subscribe to our event newsletter to stay in the loop.
Q: Are City events free to attend?
A: Most of our events are completely free and open to the public! Some activities (like food purchases or special zones) may have costs, but we aim to keep events as accessible as possible.
Q: Are events family-friendly?
A: Yes! Our events are designed for all ages, with plenty of activities for kids, teens, and adults alike.
VENDOR + ARTISAN QUESTIONS
Q: How can I apply to be a vendor or artisan at an event?
 A: Visit our Get Involved page and fill out the appropriate application form for food vendors, artisans, or event vendors. All vendors must apply and be approved before participating.
Q: Do vendors need to be from Thunder Bay?
A: While we prioritize local vendors, we welcome applications from across the region!
Q: What are the vendor fees?
A: Fees vary depending on the type and size of your booth. Details can be found in each call-out form.
Q: Do I need insurance to be a vendor?
A: Yes, all vendors must provide proof of liability insurance. Specific requirements are listed in the application package.
TALENT + PERFORMERS
Q: How do I perform at a City of Thunder Bay event?
 A: We’re always looking for local musicians, dancers, performers, and unique talent! Head to the Get Involved section and fill out the Talent – Music or Talent – Other application.
Q: Is there payment for performers?
A: Yes! We offer performance fees based on act type and duration. Details are included in the talent application forms.
Q: Can youth performers or school groups apply?
A: Absolutely — we love showcasing young and emerging talent. Let us know who you are and what you do!
COMMUNITY GROUPS

Q: Our community group would like to be involved. What are our options?
 A: We’d love to have you! Community booths are a great way to share your mission, host an activity, or engage with the public. Apply through the Community Groups section on our Get Involved page.
Q: Is there a cost for community groups to participate?
A: No, we offer free booth space for non-profit and community groups, subject to availability.
ACCESSIBILITY + INCLUSION
Q: Are your events accessible?
 A: We’re committed to making our events as inclusive and accessible as possible. Most events are held at accessible outdoor spaces with accessible washrooms. Please contact us if you have specific needs or questions.
Q: Will there be ASL interpretation or sensory-friendly zones?
A: Some events include accessible services like ASL interpretation or sensory-friendly areas. These will be advertised in the event details where applicable.

EVENTS:

SnowDay on the Waterfront
Q: What is SnowDay?
 A: SnowDay is a winter celebration with snow sculptures, outdoor games, family fun, and creative winter activities at Marina Park.
Q: When is SnowDay?
A: It usually takes place on Family Day in February. Check our event calendar for exact dates.
Q: Are the snow sculptures part of a contest?
A: Yes! Teams compete in a friendly competition with both a jury prize and a People’s Choice award. 
Q: Can my group apply to build a sculpture?
A: Yes! Artists, schools, and groups can apply through our call-out. Check the Get Involved page for info.
Q: Will there be warm-up areas?
A: Yes! There will be heated areas and indoor programming to help everyone stay cozy.
Quest:Tech & Gaming
Q: What is Quest:Tech & Gaming all about?
 A: Quest is a free, all-ages celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). It features hands-on tech stations, gaming areas (including VR), a silent disco, and more!
Q: Is this event only for kids?
A: Not at all! Quest is designed for everyone — from curious kids to hardcore gamers and lifelong tech lovers.
Q: Do I need to register or buy tickets?
A: Nope! Quest is completely free and open to the public. No registration required.

Q: What are the event hours?
A: Quest runs:

  • Friday, May 9 from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Saturday, May 10 from 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Q: What is the Silent Disco and how does it work?
 A: The Silent Disco is a dance party where everyone wears headphones with selectable channels. It’s super fun and a great sensory-friendly alternative to loud music!
Q: Can school groups attend?
A: Yes! We’re working with local school boards to share info — educators are welcome to bring classes on Friday during school hours. Contact us for details.
Kite Festival
Q: What is the Kite Festival?
 A: The Kite Festival is a colourful, family-friendly event where the sky comes alive with giant, creative kites flown by pros and the public. It’s a celebration of wind, art, and play!
Q: When and where does it take place?
A: The Kite Festival usually takes place in June at Chippewa Park. Keep an eye on our event calendar for this year’s date and times.
Q: Is it free to attend?
A: Yes! The event is completely free and open to everyone.

Q: Can I bring my own kite to fly?
A: Absolutely! We encourage the public to bring and fly their own kites. Just be mindful of the designated areas and space needed for professional kite flyers.

Q: What if I don’t have a kite?
A: No worries — there are kite-making stations for kids, and some vendors may have kites available for purchase.

Q: Are there other activities besides kite flying?
A: Yes! Expect live entertainment, children’s crafts, face painting, food vendors, and interactive fun for all ages. 
Q: Is parking available at Chippewa Park?
A: Yes, but it can fill up quickly. Arrive early or consider carpooling or taking a shuttle from the intercity area!
Canada Day on the Waterfront
Q: What time do Canada Day festivities begin?
 A: Activities typically begin at 2:00 PM and run through the evening, concluding with fireworks (weather permitting) around 11:00 PM.
Q: Are there fireworks?
A: Yes! Our fireworks display caps off the night and is visible from Marina Park and surrounding areas.
Q: Will there be cultural performances or Indigenous programming?
A: Yes — cultural celebration is a big part of Canada Day on the Waterfront. Expect performances, ceremonies, and storytelling that reflect our diverse community.
Q: Is the event family-friendly?
A: 100%! There will be kid-friendly games, activities, crafts, performances, and family-focused zones throughout the park.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Marina Park is dog-friendly, but we recommend leaving pets at home for Canada Day due to the size of the crowds and fireworks.
Teddy Bears Picnic
Q: What is the Teddy Bears Picnic?
A: A fun-filled day where families, kids, and teddy bears gather for crafts, music, activities, and teddy bear checkups!
Q: When and where does it take place?
 A: It’s typically held in June at Vickers Park. Check the event page for this year’s date and details.
 Q: Is it free?
A: Yes! It’s a completely free event for the whole family. 
Q: Do I need to bring a teddy bear?
A: Not required, but teddy bears are part of the fun — and there's even a "Bear Hospital" on site!
Q: Can schools or daycares attend?
A: Yes — we welcome daycare and school groups. Please ensure proper supervision is arranged.
Live on the Waterfront
Q: What time does Live on the Waterfront start and end?
 A: Music typically starts at 6:00 PM and ends by 9:00 PM, but exact times vary by date and lineup. Check the event page for weekly schedules.
Q: Can I bring a chair or blanket?
A: Yes! We encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating on the grass.
Q: Will there be food and drinks available?
A: Absolutely — we’ll have a variety of local food vendors and food trucks onsite.
Q: Is alcohol permitted?
A: No outside alcohol is allowed.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: We’re rain-or-shine! Bring your umbrellas or rain gear. In the case of severe weather, updates will be shared on our website and social media.

Arts & Culture Under the Lights

Q: What is Arts & Culture Under the Lights?
A: It’s a magical evening event that showcases local visual artists, performers, musicians, dancers, and cultural groups — all set in a beautifully lit outdoor setting. 

Q: When and where is the event?
A: It’s typically held in the fall at Marina Park. Exact dates and programming details are posted on our event calendar. 

Q: What kind of performances or displays will be there?
A: You’ll experience live music, theatre, dance, spoken word, and visual art installations — all celebrating the richness of Thunder Bay’s arts and culture scene.
Q: Is this a family-friendly event?
A: Yes! While the ambiance is more relaxed and reflective, there are elements for all ages to enjoy, including interactive art and family programming.

Q: Will there be food or drink?
 A: Yes — we’ll have food trucks and vendors offering warm drinks and delicious eats to enjoy while you stroll.

Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: We recommend dressing for the weather and bringing a lawn chair or blanket if you want to sit and enjoy performances.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No — this is a free community celebration of the arts!

 

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, feel free to reach out to our team:
📧 culture@thunderbay.ca

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