Town of Ajax Festivals & Events

The Town of Ajax hosts inclusive and innovative events throughout the year to celebrate the richness and diversity of our community. Visit often for information about upcoming Town events and to learn more about our wide range of community events.

St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts & Culture

Image of a microphone

Our exciting 2024-2025 line-up features amazing concerts, live theatre, variety shows, and fun family-friendly performances. TIFF movies are back as well!

The St. Francis Centre has quickly become a destination for arts, culture, and heritage in Ajax, and the 2024/2025 season has it all!

Purchase Tickets and Find Out More

Winterfest – Family Day, February 16, 2026

Cartoon animals playing with a snowman

It’s fun. It’s free. It’s on Family Day. It’s Winterfest!

Celebrate your Family Day with us at Audley Recreation Centre! Families can participate in several winter-themed activities including inflatables, ice/snow painting, face painting, crafts, live entertainment, s’more making, ball hockey, and local vendors. Don’t forget to grab a free hot chocolate while you are exploring the event!

Stay tuned for details about the 2026 Wintefest taking place on Monday, February 16 from 11 a.m – 4 p.m.!

Leading Sponsor

Ontario Power Generation logo  

Supporting Sponsor 

 Steve & Amanda's No Frills 

 Shuttle Information
 On-site parking is extremely limited. Take the shuttle from one of our two convenient locations:
  1. Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Rd, Ajax, ON L1Z 0L2)
  2. GO Parking off of O'Brien Court

First shuttle pick-up is 10:45 a.m. and the last shuttle will leave McLean Community Centre at 4:15 p.m. Shuttles will run every 20 minutes (approximately) and may vary due to unexpected circumstances, traffic and weather.

Accessible busses are available upon request (onsite at shuttle locations).

Please note that all locations are for parking purposes only. Entry to the buildings are not available and are closed on Family Day. 

Movies in the Park 

People watching a movie on an inflated screen outdoors

Enjoy a unique, outdoor, family cinema experience projected on a giant inflatable movie screen. Admission is free (registration not required) and movie-goers are encouraged to bring their own snacks, a chair, blanket and bug spray! #AjaxMovieNight 

Movies will take place at dusk and will happen rain or shine (rain locations listed below).

This year, we will be showcasing three movies, which will be announced in May. The locations are as follows:

Friday, June 13, 2025 – Toy Story 1

ARC Gymnasium (Capacity 400, first come, first served).

*NOTE: Due to construction, Movies in the Park will take place inside the ARC Gym.

Start time approx. 9 p.m.

Friday, July 18, 2025 – Sonic 3

Ajax Community Centre Sports field (South Field) – 75 Centennial Road

Start time approx. 8:45 p.m. Rain location ACC Pad 2.

Friday, August 15, 2025 – Inside Out 2 

McLean Community Centre Miller’s Creek Park (Ball diamond) – 95 Magill Drive

Start time approx. 8:15 p.m. Rain location MCC Gymnasium.

Trailfest - June 22, 2025 – Audley Recreation Centre

Illustration of people on bikes on an outdoor trail

Celebrate the great outdoors and explore Ajax's beautiful and extensive trail system through one of three different ways. Please note that all rides/walks require the use of the Ride with GPS App. Please refer to the details below on how to register and download the Ride with GPS App prior to the event day.

Location: Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Road North)

1. 44 km Ride with the Mayor - 2025 Route  

    Registration: 8:30. - 9:15 a.m.
    Ride Start Time: 9:45 a.m. 

2. 20 - 22 km - 70th Anniversary Ride (Tour d'Ajax) –  2025 Route  

    Registration: 8:45 - 9:30 a.m.
    Ride Start Time: 10 a.m.

This special ride will celebrate the Town of Ajax’s 70th Anniversary. As you ride along the guided route, take a moment to stop at a variety of historical plaques located around Town. Please note this ride may be longer than the usual Tour d'Ajax to be able to accomodate the plaque locations.  

3. 10 km Family Fun Ride - 2025 Route  

    Registration: 9 – 9:45 a.m.

    Ride Start Time: 10:15 a.m. 

We’ll keep you on course during this bike ride using the Ride with GPS app available through your Google Play & Apple Store. On June 22, choose the ride you are participating in and enjoy! At the event, share your adventures with us for a chance to win one of three prizes!

Online registration is now open and will close on Thursday, June 19 at 11:59 p.m. Please click here for the Ride with GPS Registration Link!

Register Now!

Event Friend Sponsor:

Northern Cycle Logo

 Download and Explore the Ride with GPS App *Required* 
Once again, riders will be asked to use the Ride with GPS App to assist them with directions along the Trailfest Routes. Please note there will be no directional signage on the route.

To learn more about the Ride with GPS app and how to download, please check out the How to Guide.

2025 Pride Month Programming

Join the Town of Ajax as we celebrate Pride month this June. Throughout the month, we invite Ajax residents to participate in events across the Town as we proudly show our support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Visit the Town of Ajax 2025 Pride Programming page for more information.

2025 Town of Ajax Pride Events Calendar

Indigenous Sunrise Ceremony - June 18

Join TOA at sunrise on Wednesday, June 18 at 5:45 a.m. at Paradise Park (2997 Lakeview Blvd) for a sacred ceremony led by James Carpenter (Grey Cloud) in honour of Indigenous Heritage Month and the National Day of Indigenous Peoples. Open to all. Come reflect, reconnect and give thanks. Weather permitting. No dogs or photography at the ceremony allowed. 

Dog Waste Pod Program Launch Event - June 26 - McLean Community Centre

Help keep Ajax paws-itively clean!

You’re invited to participate in TOA’s launch event for our Dog Waste Pod Program!

Thursday, June 26, 2025

2:30 p.m.

McLean Community Centre, beside the Off-Leash Dog Park (95 Magill Drive)

What to expect

  • Learn more about TOA’s Dog Waste Pods and benefits of the program
  • Be some of the first to participate in our Pup Poop Pick Up Challenge!
  • Giveaway bags and sweet treats (for humans and dogs – while supplies last)!
  • And more!

Mayor and Council BBQ - June 28 - Ajax Community Centre

Council is excited to welcome everyone to our community event filled with food, fun, live entertainment and activities for all. Halal, vegetarian and gluten free option available. 

Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025

Time: 12 to 2 p.m.

Location: Ajax Community Centre, 75 Centennial Road, Ajax, ON L1S 4S4

What to expect:

  • BBQ (choice of one beef or veggie burger or one beef hot dog)
  • Choice of one drink and a small ice cream
  • Prizes - a chance to win one of two Yeti Coolers!
  • DJ, strolling entertainment including, a magician, balloon twisters, a steel pan performer and more!
  • Airbrush and henna tattoos
  • Quantities are limited, first come first served

Canada Day - July 1, 2025

A beaver and a moose wearing Canadian flags

Join us on July 1, 2025 at Ajax Downs (50 Alexander’s Crossing) for Canada Day presented by Ajax Downs Racetrack. 

From 2-10 p.m., enjoy a variety of activities including cultural performances, children’s games and activities, interactive experiences, live entertainment, community booths & marketplace, sensory zone, food vendors, beer vendors and a special fireworks finale at 10 p.m.

Leave the driving to us and take the free Canada Day shuttle. Visit the accordion below for more details.

Nominal fees apply for food and beverages. Activities are subject to change without notice. ATMs on site.

Presenting Sponsor

Ajax Downs Logo

Title Sponsors:

Casino Ajax Logo Elexicon Energy Logo Julia Seaton logo

Leading Sponsors:

Ontario Power Generation Logo Renewal by Andersen Logo Safran Landing Systems Logo

Supporting Sponsor:

Battlefield Logo

 Shuttle Information 

On-site parking is limited. Take the shuttle from one of three convenient locations:

  1. GO Parking off of O'Brien Court
  2. Ajax Town Hall (65 Harwood Ave. S.)
  3. Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Rd. N.)

First shuttle pick-up is 1:45 p.m. and the last shuttle will leave Ajax Downs at 10:45 p.m. Shuttles will run every 20 minutes (approximately) and may vary due to unexpected circumstances, traffic and weather. 

 Entertainment Stage Schedule

Canada Day - Main Stage Schedule

TimeAct
2 – 3 p.m. Canada Roxx
3:15 – 4 p.m. Lexy The Rap Dad
4 - 4:15 p.m.  Karma Jiu Jitsu (Demo)
4:15 - 4:30 p.m. Durham Tamil Association
4:30 - 4:45 p.m. Arunodhaya Dance Academy
5 – 5:15 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
5:15 – 5:30 p.m. Chinese Litmus Group
5:30 - 5:45 p.m. Dance Inc.
7 – 8 p.m. Summer of 69 - Bryan Adams Tribute
8:15 – 9 p.m. Crazy Diamond 
9 – 10 p.m. Summer of 69 - Bryan Adams Tribute
10 p.m.  Fireworks

Canada Day Non-Stage Show Schedule

TimeActLocation
 3:30 - 4 p.m.  Recess (Trampoline Show)  Field - North
 4:30 - 5 p.m.  Aerial Show  Field - Centre
 6 - 6:30 p.m.  Recess (Trampoline Show)  Field - North
 7 - 7:30 p.m.  Aerial Show  Field - Centre
 8 - 8:30 p.m.  Recess (Trampoline Show)  Field - North
 8:30 - 9 p.m.  Aerial Show  Field - Centre

 

 Sensory Zone

The Sensory Zone is a designated space where others and their individual needs are respected.

We ask all Sensory Zone patrons to respect the following:

  • Be mindful of loud and sudden noises
  • Know that all activities require parent/guardian supervision and
  • Know patrons of all ages are allowed to play and enjoy the activities offered

This space will be equipped with sensory-focused activities including a colouring station, inflatables and games, sensory equipment, a sheltered area, a changing station and a seating area.

Noise cancelling headphones will be available for rent on site. 

Summer in the Square - Presented by TD Bank Group

Animation of a crowd of people gathered at Pat Bayly Square

Pat Bayly Square (75 Bayly Street W.), Ajax’s downtown urban hub, will bring a vibrant energy to the community this summer with free family-friendly concerts, children’s performances and Zumba®.

Kicking off on July 8 and running every other Tuesday evening until August 26, join us for your Tuesday night entertainment. Find out more information below.

All performances take place rain or shine. Performances will move indoors (Ajax Community Centre - HMS Room) during inclement weather and admission for indoor seating is on a first come, first served basis (180 capacity). Please check the Town of Ajax social media channels after 5 p.m. for inclement weather updates. Decisions will be finalized at that time, unless otherwise posted.

Presenting Sponsor: 

TD Bank

 Kids in the Square

Kicking off on July 8 and running every other Tuesday evening from 7 to 8 p.m. until August 19, Pat Bayly Square is your kid-friendly Tuesday night free entertainment destination. Kids in the Square features interactive and engaging fun for the whole family.

The snack bar will be open, offering frozen favourites for everyone!

Please Note: Bring a chair. Food is available for purchase. Registration is not required.

July 8, 7 - 8 p.m.: Up, Up and Away! Mad Science Experiment

July 22, 7 - 8 p.m.: The Magic Family – Magic Show

August 5, 7 - 8 p.m.: Bumbling Bert Foam Party *Back by popular demand*  

August 19, 7 – 8:30 p.m. (Special time – one night only!): All about the SWIFTIES - Taylor Swift Tribute

All performances take place rain or shine. Performances will move indoors (Ajax Community Centre - HMS Room) during inclement weather and admission for indoor seating is on a first come, first served basis (180 capacity). Please check the Town of Ajax social media channels after 5 p.m. for inclement weather updates. Decisions will be finalized at that time, unless otherwise posted.

 Music in the Square

Kicking off on July 15 and running every other Tuesday evening until August 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Pat Bayly Square is your Tuesday night free entertainment destination. Music in the Square features professional entertainment for all ages with genres ranging from classic rock to pop.

Each week, make sure you arrive early to enjoy delicious snacks from our Snack Bar/Food Vendors in the square and/or a beverage from a local Durham brewery.

Please Note: Bring a chair. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Registration is not required.

July 15, 7 - 8:30 p.m.: Solitary Man - Neil Diamond Tribute

July 29, 7 - 8:30 p.m.: Simply the Best - Tina Turner Tribute  

August 12, 7 - 8:30 p.m.: Pearl Jamming – Pearl Jam Tribute

August 26, 7 - 8:30 p.m.: Keep the Faith - Bon Jovi Tribute

All performances take place rain or shine. Performances will move indoors (Ajax Community Centre - HMS Room) during inclement weather and admission for indoor seating is on a first come, first served basis (180 capacity). Please check the Town of Ajax social media channels after 5 p.m. for inclement weather updates. Decisions will be finalized at that time, unless otherwise posted.

Zumba in the Square

Come celebrate the summer with FREE outdoor fitness! Get ready to sweat and smile while moving to the rhythms of Zumba® in the Square. All ages and levels welcomed, and no previous dance experience required.

With four dates to choose from, we look forward to having you in the Square!

  • Friday, June 6: 7 – 8 p.m.
  • Friday, July 11: 7 – 8 p.m.
  • Friday, August 8: 7 – 8 p.m.
  • Friday, September 12: 7 – 8 p.m.

Registration is free, but required. Register at ajax.ca/groupfitness starting May 8, 2025.

Spirit Walk - Friday, September 26, 2025

People listening to a spirit walk guide

Take a step back in time and discover Ajax's rich history. Join us for a guided walking tour and learn about local history from various “spirits” along the way.

Registration for the Ajax Spirit Walk opens in the summer.

Please stay tuned for more details about the 2025 event including location, times and registration. 

Pumpkinville - Presented by TD Bank Group - October 18, 2025

Jack-o-lantern

Join us October 18, 2025 at the picturesque Greenwood Conservation Area (2290 Greenwood Rd.) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a variety of activities.

In addition to the live stage, we will also have children’s games and activities, interactive experiences, community displays and exhibitors, sensory zone, and our infamous haunted house! Don’t forget to trick-or-treat at the community display and exhibitor booths and pick up your free pumpkin at the Steve & Amanda’s NoFrills Pumpkin Patch – a Pumpkinville tradition! (all while supplies last)

Kids are encouraged to dress in costume!

Leave the driving to us - take the free Pumpkinville shuttle (see information below).

Nominal fees apply for food and beverages. Activities are subject to change without notice. ATM’s on site.

Stay tuned for stage announcements and food & beverage vendors. 


Presenting Sponsor

TD Bank

  

Supporting Sponsor 

Battlefield logo Steve & Amanda's No Frills  

 Shuttle Information

On-site parking is limited. Take the shuttle from 1 of 3 convenient locations:

GO Parking (off of O'Brien Court)

Ajax Town Hall (65 Harwood Ave. S.)

Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Rd. N.)

First shuttle pick-up is 10:45 a.m. at each location and the last shuttle will leave Greenwood Conservation Area at 5:15 p.m. Shuttles will run every 20 minutes (approximately) and may vary due to unexpected circumstances, traffic and weather. 

 Sensory Zone 
The Sensory Zone is a designated space where others and their individual needs are respected.                                   

We ask all Sensory Zone patrons to respect the following:

  • Be mindful of loud and sudden noises
  • Know that all activities require parent/guardian supervision and
  • Know patrons of all ages are allowed to play and enjoy the activities offered

This space will be equipped with sensory focused activities including a colouring station, inflatables and games, sensory equipment, a sheltered area, a changing station and a seating area.

Noise cancelling headphones will be available for rent(free) onsite. 

Mayor & Council Annual Holiday Toy & Food Drive - Winter 2025

Come together to support the community this holiday season! Residents, businesses and community groups are encouraged to participate in the annual Mayor & Council Toy & Food Drive. All donations will help support local Ajax charities and families in need during the holidays.

More details about the campaign will be available in October of 2025. 

 

 Suggested Donations
  • Unopened, non-perishable food items, such as tuna and salmon, children's individually wrapped school snacks, pancake mix, hot chocolate, instant coffee, instant noodles, kraft dinner, meal kits, rice, oats, cereal, pasta, pasta sauce, pancake mix & syrup, canned beans, canned vegetables, soup, crackers, granola bars, peanut-free school snacks, peanut butter, flour and sugar.
  • New, unwrapped toys/items for pre-teens (ages 10-13) and teens (ages 14-17).
  • New items for young adults (ages 16-24).
  • Gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, grocery stores, cineplex, clothing stores, restaurants, etc.)
  • New clothing for children, pre-teens, teens, young adults and adults (including winter items such as coats, boots, hats, gloves etc.)
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Household items (linens, cutlery, cooking items, blankets, etc.)

Items not accepted:

Baby furniture/equipment

Large furniture

Used clothing

Used toys

Expired or opened food items

 Drop-off Locations & Hours

Ajax Community Centre (75 Centennial Road)

  • Monday - Friday 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday  7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Ajax Public Library - Main Branch (55 Harwood Avenue South)

  • Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ajax Town Hall (65 Harwood Avenue South)

  • Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Road North)

  • Monday - Friday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

McLean Community Centre (95 Magill Drive)

  • Monday - Friday 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Santa's Spectacle of Lights - Town of Ajax Santa Claus Parade - November 22, 2025

Santa Claus and his reindeer

Santa is coming to Town on Saturday, November 22, 2025! From 6 – 7:30 p.m. Ajax residents and visitors are invited to participate in a family-friendly evening of fun and entertainment!  Join us immediately after the Parade at Ajax Town Hall & the Ajax Public Library - Main Branch for the Annual Tree Lighting and after parade Festivities. 

Looking to be a walking group / float? Applications open in August of 2025. 

2025 Route Information

Santa’s Spectacle of Lights parade will begin at the intersection of Bayly St. and Mackenzie Ave., proceeding east along Bayly St. and will continue north on Harwood Ave. S concluding at Ajax Town Hall (Harwood Ave. and Achillies Rd.).

Parking at Town Hall is limited and patrons are encouraged to park at the Ajax Plaza Harwood Shopping Centre or Baywood Centre. Please note all parking rules will be in effect, therefore all bylaws and rules should be adhered too. 

 2025 Road Closures 

Please be advised that the following roads will be closed for a portion of the day on Saturday, November 23 to accommodate Santa’s Spectacle of Lights Parade.

Bayly St. W. (Finley Ave. to Salem Rd.) from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Harwood Ave. S.  (Birch Cres. to Emperor St.) from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Mackenzie Ave. (Bayly Ave. to Clements Rd. W.) from 4:30 to 8 p.m.

Achilles Rd. (Harwood Ave. .S to Salem Rd.) from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Christmas in the Village - November 29, 2025

Illustration of holly and ivy with a star in the centre

The Town of Ajax is taking over Christmas in the Village!

Join us in Pickering Village on Old Kingston Rd on November 29 from 2-10 p.m. for a fun-filled day of activities, including Santa photo ops, trackless train rides, smore's and hot chocolate giveaways, a vendor marketplace, horse and wagon rides, and live entertainment!

Due to the nature of the event, we ask that you please keep your pets at home. Service animals are permitted but proper documentation may be requested. 

Supporting Sponsor 

 Steve & Amanda's No Frills

Ajax Family New Year's Eve Party Presented by Ontario Power Generation - December 31, 2025

Illustration of two penguins and a bear ringing in 2024

Join us on December 31, 2025 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Ajax Community Centre (75 Centennial Rd) for New Year’s Eve!

It’s a time of celebration and new beginnings!

The Ajax Family New Year’s Eve Party delivers a fantastic event for the whole family. This event features arts & crafts, interactive activities and something for everyone. Party favours are included as participants gather on the ice rink for a special countdown and balloon drop at 9 p.m. It’s a great way to ring in the New Year! 

Nominal fees apply for food and beverages available at the ACC Snack Bar. Activities are subject to change without notice.

There is only one entrance into the event - Pad 4 entrance. Admission is on a first come, first served basis.  There is no re-admission once you leave.

Presenting Sponsor

Ontario Power Generation logo

Supporting Sponsor

Julia Seaton logo

 Sensory Zone
The Sensory Friendly Zone is a designated space, where everyone is respectful of others and their individual needs.            

Location: Commodores Room               

In this area we ask all patrons attending the sensory zone to abide by the following:

  • Be mindful of loud and sudden noises
  • Know that all activities require parent/guardian supervision and
  • Know patrons of all ages are allowed to play and enjoy the activities offered

This space will be equipped with sensory focused activities including a colouring station, games, sensory equipment and more!

Noise cancelling headphones will be available for rent on-site by the entrance of the event and sensory zone. This space has a capacity of 50 patrons at one time and will be available on a first come, first served basis.

 

Get Involved

Get involved in the TOA community! We rely on a network of entertainers, vendors, exhibitors, sponsors and volunteers to make our festivals and events great! 

Become an Entertainer at our 2025 Festivals and Events - Apply Now! 

Now accepting entertainer applications for all 2025 Festivals and Events. Whether you are a band, solo artist or children's entertainer, we want to hear from you!

Apply Now!

Become a Vendor or Exhibitor at our 2025 Festival and Events - Apply Now! 

Now accepting vendor and exhibitor applications for all 2025 Festival and Events. Whether you are a food vendor, exhibitor, community group or not-for-profit we want to hear from you!

Apply Now! 

Become a Sponsor at our Festivals and Events! 
Become a sponsor of our upcoming Virtual and In-Person events. Please call 905-619-2529, ext. 7248 or email [email protected]  for more information.
Volunteer at our Festivals and Events! 

Become a volunteer for one of our upcoming festivals or events. To learn more about our volunteer program visit our volunteer page.

Apply Now! 

Truth & Reconciliation

The Town recognizes that true reconciliation requires sustained space for truth and action based on recognition of rights, respect and partnership. An important step in rebuilding relationships with Indigenous communities is to reflect and learn more about Indigenous history as we move forward with acknowledgement and kindness as an inclusive community.  

 Check Out Upcoming Town of Ajax Corporate Festivals & Events

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