Top Annual Events in Guelph You Don’t Want to Miss

Hillside Festival

Guelph Lake shines a spotlight on creativity and connection with the Hillside Festival every summer. Over three days, the park fills with music, art, and culture, featuring folk, country, indie rock, and global beats across multiple stages.

This eco-conscious festival has workshops for all ages, tasty and sustainable food from local vendors, and lots of family-friendly fun. Music lovers and those who thrive on new experiences enjoy coming together to celebrate some of the creativity that makes Guelph unique.

Guelph Multicultural Festival

Every June, the Guelph Multicultural Festival celebrates the city’s diverse heritage in Riverside Park. This free event features cultural performances, artisan markets, and—one of the biggest attractions—food from around the world.

Visitors can savour dishes representing dozens of countries while enjoying traditional dances, music, and art displays. The festival offers activities for kids and opportunities to learn about the many cultures that call Guelph home.

Guelph Film Festival

If you're a film enthusiast, the Guelph Film Festival is a must-attend event every fall. This event takes place in venues around the city and highlights independent filmmakers, inspiring documentaries, and heartfelt stories that initiate important conversations.

This event, which focuses on fresh perspectives, is for anyone passionate about cinema. Past editions have featured powerful documentaries like The Social Dilemma, which illustrates the impact of social media on society, and My Octopus Teacher, an exploration of nature and human connection. 

The festival also showcases fictional films that push boundaries, such as The Farewell, a poignant story about family, culture, and the immigrant experience.

The Santa Claus Parade

Guelph’s Santa Claus Parade warms hearts across the city as the winter chill sets in. This tradition marks the start of the season with lighted floats, marching bands, holiday magic, and, of course, an appearance from Santa himself.

Families line the streets to watch Santa make his grand entrance, spreading cheer to kids and adults.

Guelph Pride

Guelph Pride, an energetic spring event, celebrates the LGBTQ2S+ community. Expect live performances from talented local artists, including drag shows, music acts, and dance shows that showcase the diversity within the LGBTQ2S+ community. 

You’ll also find panel discussions that explore important social and cultural topics and art shows that highlight LGBTQ2S+ creators. It’s a chance to connect, learn, and experience the creativity and passion that Guelph’s Pride celebration brings to life.

Discover Your Best Year Yet in Guelph

Whether swaying to the tunes at Hillside, exploring different cultures at the Multicultural Festival, showing your pride at LGBTQ2S+ events, or enjoying a night at the cinema, Guelph’s community events bring people together in the best ways.

Ready to be part of all the excitement? Andra Arnold & Associates can help you find a home that puts you in the heart of it all.

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