August Long Weekend is here!

Markets and music are the theme of August, and of course August long weekend! This month, enjoy the time outdoors and visit our amazing local businesses and communities. Go somewhere new you’ve never experienced, or visit and old reliable that you know and love. Just keep reading to find all the fun things going on…

Markets and music are the theme of August, and of course August long weekend! This month, enjoy the time outdoors and visit our amazing local businesses and communities.

Go somewhere new you’ve never experienced, or visit and old reliable that you know and love. Just keep reading to find all the fun things going on in our region this month.

Queenston Heights Concert Series

Celebrate 50 years of music at the Queenston Heights Bandshell with the return of the Sunday Afternoon Concert Series. 

On now until September 6, enjoy free outdoor performances every Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. 

Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, or pair your visit with Sunday Brunch at Queenston Heights Restaurant. This beloved venue has hosted decades of community music, and now is your chance to enjoy it.

Learn more on the Niagara Parks website.

Photo from Niagara Parks

NOTL Museum’s Heritage Festival

Spend your Civic Holiday outdoors at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum’s Heritage Festival, a lovely celebration of local history and community.

  • Live music all afternoon
  • Historic demonstrations
  • Artisan vendors, curated by Sorella Niagara
  • Treasures sale
  • A relaxed, family-friendly day outdoors
  • Monday, August 3 | 11 am – 4 pm
  • 43 Castlereagh Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
  • Free admission

More details visit NOTL Museum’s website.

Looking for more to do in NOTL? Visit Tourism Niagara on the Lake.

Photo from the NOTL Museum

Shaw Festival’s Pop-Up Patio

The Shaw Festival’s Pop-Up Patio is open all summer long and it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite, have a drink, and relax after (or before) a show. No tickets required, just good company and great tunes!

Catch FREE live music from local Niagara musicians every Thursday at 4 p.m. through September.

Baillie Courtyard, 10 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Pop Up Patio is sponsored by Marz Homes. Learn more on Shaw Festival’s website.

Photo from Shaw Festival

Concert Series at The Exchange

The Niagara Falls Concert Series is back with Niagara Falls Exchange! 

Enjoy FREE performances by emerging artists and explore Ontario’s vibrant music scene. Bring your own non-alcoholic beverages and treats, or grab something from the Sining Cafe (and bakery). 

Seating is available, but feel free to bring your own lawn chair. 

  • Next shows on August 13 and August 27
  • 7pm – 8pm
  • Main Street Courtyard, The Exchange

(Back-up location in the event of inclement weather: Sining Cafe) 

Learn more.

Photo from Niagara Falls Exchange

Visit Canada’s First Estate Winery – Plus, Live Music!

Visit Canada’s first estate winery before the end of the summer!

Inniskillin is a pioneer in the Canadian wine industry and is internationally recognized for its award-winning table and ice wines.

  • Tour the vineyards or stay for a vineyard picnic
  • Taste a flight of remarkable wines and ice wines
  • Enjoy dinner, live music (Fridays and Sundays from 2-4 p.m.), and seasonal events

Inniskillin Estate Winery
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Learn more here.

Photo from Inniskillin Winery

DestinationNiagara

DestinationNiagara

Destination Niagara is your one-stop source for exploring the Niagara region, sharing the best places to eat, drink, stay and explore across all twelve municipalities, from the world-famous Falls to wine country, waterfront and the communities in between. Start planning your own trip with our free trip planner at destinationniagarafalls.ca.

Niagara Region: Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit for fewer crowds?

Weekday mornings outside peak summer and holiday weekends are typically quieter. Shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) balance weather and crowd levels.

Do I need a passport to cross the border for viewpoints?

Crossing between Canada and the United States requires valid travel documents. Many experiences stay on one side—check your itinerary before you go.

Are the trails and gorge viewpoints family-friendly?

Many paths are accessible with proper footwear, but some gorge routes include stairs and uneven stone. Review trail notes and posted advisories before heading out.

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