The Port Hope Arts Festival is back and bigger than ever on Saturday, August 9, 2025. Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the day-long celebration of local creativity promises something for everyone, from live performances and art exhibits to artisan shopping and family fun.
One of the main highlights is the returning 10-Minute Play Series, featuring 12 unique performances at six downtown locations. This year’s lineup includes Cher-lock and the Roommate Ruse, a new work developed by Port Hope High School students.
Festival-goers can browse an outdoor artisan market with more than 40 vendors on Augusta Street and the lawn behind Town Hall. Wagon rides, hands-on art activities, and free transit within town make the event even more accessible.
The Sounds of the Next Generation (SONG) invites performers to take the stage at the NextGen SoundStage open mic. Meanwhile, the Capitol Theatre offers a behind-the-scenes conversation on the making of Rez Gas, followed by a special Under the Marquee concert at 7 p.m.
The festivities kick off early with a Downtown Art Crawl on Friday, August 8, hosted by Critical Mass Art. Join guided tours, artist talks, and the Post-It Exhibition + Sale, showcasing 3×3″ sticky-note artworks by Canadian artists.
Art Around Town also returns, with shop windows transformed into mini-galleries from July 25 to August 10.
This celebration is part of Arts Month in Port Hope, an open invitation for residents and visitors to explore, create, and connect through art. Visit porthope.ca/arts-festival for full details and schedules.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
