The winter is finally thawing and it’s time to shake off the frost and enjoy all the activities and events taking place this spring and summer in Stratford, Ontario. From blossoming flowers to forays into the town’s rich history and culture, a Stratford getaway is a must this season!
There are so many great events taking place in 2019. Browse local events and plan an exciting outing to the charming town of Stratford.
2019 Stratford Swan Release, Parade & Celebration
One of the aspects of our town that Stratford is most famous for are the gorgeous swans that live in and decorate our Avon River. During this exciting event, you will hear the sound of the Stratford Police Pipes and Drums, which will signal the descent of Stratford’s favourite feathered friends who will strut their stuff around town. This is a can’t miss for families!
Event date: Sunday, April 7, 2019 from 1:45 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Location: Morenz & Lakeshore Drive, Stratford ON
Stratford Art In the Park 2019 Season
Join artists from all across the region as they showcase their work within the idyllic setting of the green space along the Avon River between the Festival Theatre and Tom Patterson. Art In The Park is a favourite way to spend the day for locals and visitors alike, so take advantage of the change in weather and spend time basking in the glow of springtime sunshine and unique works of art.
Event Dates: Sunday, Wednesdays and Saturdays Starting May 18th to September 29th, 2019 – From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Drive, Stratford, ON
The Stratford Festival
An absolute favourite of locals and visitors alike, a visit to Stratford during the spring and summer season is incomplete without seeing a wondrous performance at The Stratford Festival. This season you can choose from a number of exciting plays that the whole family will enjoy.
Read more about all of the exciting performances taking place at the 2019 Stratford Festival.
Stratford Festival Theatre Tours
For decades, the Stratford Festival has been beckoning theatre lovers, from across Southwestern Ontario, to witness the best that Canadian theatre has to offer. Spend one of your mornings in Stratford exploring the secrets behind the magic of the Festival’s theatrical productions, so you can get a better sense of all the talent and craftsmanship that goes into our town’s extraordinary performances.
Event Dates: Wednesday through Sunday (June 5 through to November 3), 2019 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
Cost: $10/adults | $8/seniors | $6/students
Location: Starting at the West Lobby at the Festival Theatre, 55 Queen Street, Stratford, ON
Downtown Heritage Carriage Rides
The businesses of downtown Stratford have come together to provide visitors with a delightful way to see our charming town. Hop in one of our heritage carriages and stroll down the vibrant streets to take in all the unique places and friendly faces that define our city’s flair for enjoyment. First come – first to have fun!
Event Dates: Saturdays (June 1 through to September 28, 2019) from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Cost: Free admittance
Location: Memorial Gardens, 70 Ontario Street, Stratford, ON
2019 Stratford Blues and Ribfest
Join locals and tourists alike for one of the most vibrant festivals of the year! It’s the 10th anniversary of the Stratford Blues and Ribfest, so you and your loved ones can celebrate with talented blues musicians and delicious food, alongside a big pop of culture and community.
Event Date: Friday June 21, Saturday 22, and Sunday June 23, 2019
Cost: Free admittance
Location: Veterans Drive Band Shell, Stratford, ON
2019 Concerts in The Park
What a perfect way to spend a spring evening! On Sundays and Wednesdays, throughout the spring and summertime, the Kiwanis Club of Stratford and the Stratford Concert Band host a variety of concerts within the picturesque setting of Queen’s Park. Enjoy talented musicians, while tapping along from your lawn chair or snuggled up with someone special on a blanket.
Event Dates: Sundays and Wednesdays (June 26 through to August 28), 2019 – from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Donations are greatly appreciated
Location: Upper Queen’s Park Bandshell, 1 Richard Monette Way, Stratford, ON
Stratford Summer Music Festival
This multi-week event brings together more than 350 artists to perform in 100 events. Set in both indoor and outdoor venues, you can experience classical performances, lectures, intimate concerts in unlikely settings, and so much more.
This festival is presented by music lovers from around our city who share a vision of uniting international artists within the heart of Southwestern Ontario to demonstrate the musical excellence you’d only expect to find in big cities.
Event Dates: July 15 through to August 25, 2019 – for performance schedule, visit the Stratford Summer Music Festival website.
Cost: Varies per event, tickets can be purchased online.
Stratford Farmers Market
See the Agriplex Building at the Rotary Complex come to life with the sights, sounds and smells of Stratford’s local artisans. Pick up some fresh vegetables, handmade gifts and delicious baked goods to prepare for your springtime get together with the people you love most – and want to treat to delicious local treats.
Event dates: Open Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Stratford & District Agricultural Society, 353 McCarthy Road, Unit B, Stratford, ON
Spring into Stratford and Make the Most Out of Your Sunny Getaway
Before the flowers start showing their colourful faces, book your springtime Stratford getaway so you can look forward to a great weekend away. If you’re searching for charming centrally-located accommodations, choose to stay at The Parlour Inn during your visit. That way, you’ll be within walking distance of the vast majority of the area’s best-kept secrets and key spring events.
We look forward to welcoming you and the sunshine very soon!