HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND (May 2 & 3) - Travel the world at the annual Folklore Festival! Experience the sights, sounds and flavours of Thunder Bay's diverse cultural and Indigenous communities from 12 pm to 7 pm at Fort William Gardens. | |
IN THIS ISSUE
- Free Family Fun in Thunder Bay
- Plan the Perfect Weekend for Mom
- Spring Sports Season Openers
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Martial Arts & Health Expo (May 16 & 17)
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Firefighters Ten Mile Road Race (May 18)
- Urban Angling Spotlight
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Calendar Girls (May 21–30)
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Spring Craft Revival (May 24)
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Thunder Pride - Save the Date: June 6
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Free Family Fun in Thunder Bay
Save the dates for these upcoming events!
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The City of Thunder Bay proudly presents seven award-winning, free public events each year. These are not just events—they are celebrations of who we are. Rooted in culture, connection and creativity, these events shine a light on the incredible diversity and talent that lives here in Northwestern Ontario.
You're invited—no matter who you are, or where you come from—to come out, take part, and be part of something bigger. So bring a friend. Bring your curiosity. Bring your energy. Let’s celebrate Thunder Bay together!
Learn more.
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Quest: Tech & Gaming
May 8 & 9
Fort William Gardens
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Plan the Perfect Weekend for Mom
From Saturday markets to Sunday brunch, here’s some ways to celebrate Mom!
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Saturday, May 9: It’s all about finding something special. Browse the Mother’s Day Market at the Moose, Indigenous Crafts Market at the CLE, or the Maker’s Market at the Prince Arthur Hotel for handmade gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures. You can also explore local favourites like the Thunder Bay Country Market or Goods & Co. Market for unique finds, local treats, and a relaxed outing together.
For moms with a green thumb (or anyone who loves a beautiful setting), visit Vanderwees Garden Gallery, Creekside Nursery, Trevisanuttos, Landale Gardens, or Bill Martin's Nurseryland—all offer plants, gardening inspiration, and great gift ideas. You can also take Mom for a stroll at the Centennial Botanical Conservatory, where warm, tropical air and lush greenery make for a great escape.
Sunday, May 10: Treat Mom to a delicious Mother’s Day brunch at your favourite local restaurant. The DaVinci Centre, Italian Cultural Centre, Slovak Legion, and The Hoito at Goods & Co. are all serving up special menus to help you celebrate. Brunch is the perfect way to wrap up a weekend dedicated to Mom. Make reservations early—Mother’s Day fills up fast!
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Thunder City Speedway is Back
Midweek excitement and the return of spring sports in Thunder Bay
The engines roar back to life at Thunder City Speedway on May 13 with Open Practice Night, followed by races every Wednesday evening all season long. It’s a great midweek outing that's
fast-paced and fun for the whole family.
And it’s not just racing season—spring marks the return of live sports across the city. Catch the Thunder Bay Border Cats (baseball) home opener on May 29 as they take on Eau Claire, or cheer on the Thunder Bay Chill (soccer) with the men’s home opener on May 23 and women’s on May 31.
From the roar of the track to the crack of the bat and the cheers from the soccer pitch, it’s time to get outside, cheer loud, and celebrate the season.
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90 Years Running: The Firefighters Ten Mile Road Race
Monday, May 18 - A Victoria Day tradition! Celebrate the 90th celebration of this iconic event. Cheer on participants along the scenic route from Simpson Street to the Marina and back. The race begins at 8:50 am. Register by May 10.
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URBAN ANGLING SPOTLIGHT
Cast a line without leaving the city
Thunder Bay offers unique urban fishing experiences with opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike and trout just minutes from downtown. From the Kaministiquia River to the Current River and the waterfront at Prince Arthur’s Landing, there are plenty of easy-access spots where you can cast a line from shore, a pier, or even alongside a walking trail.
Spring is a prime time to fish because walleye and northern pike move into shallow waters near river mouths, and steelhead run upstream in local rivers. It’s an ideal season for beginners and experienced anglers alike—no long drive required, just fresh air, scenic views, and the chance to reel in something memorable right in the heart of the city.
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Calendar Girls - May 21 to 30
Get Mom tickets to Calendar Girls—a heartfelt and hilarious night out with the Cambrian Players. Based on the true story of eleven Women's Institute members who posed nude for a calendar to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund, the show celebrates friendship, courage, and a little bit of cheeky rebellion. Performances run from May 21 to 24 and then from May 27 to 30. Order tickets.
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SAVE THE DATE - Pride Parade and Festival is June 6
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Tourism Thunder Bay’s Social Media
Follow Tourism Thunder Bay on Facebook and Instagram for weekly events, seasonal activities, tourism partner spotlights, walking tours and exciting adventures in and around Thunder Bay.
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@ThunderBayLifeStyle is your source for insider tips on the city’s best-kept secrets. Their curated updates provide the local perspective you need to experience the very best of Thunder Bay.
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Download the
Thunder Bay Tours App
Experience Thunder Bay from the palm of your hand through our interactive app that users can access directly on their cell phones and web-enabled devices.
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Bring It Here!
Thunder Bay is a centrally located destination with a variety of convention hotels, unique meeting spaces and transportation options with the capacity to meet your group’s needs. By choosing our city for your event, you may be eligible for financial incentives covering up to 25% of your event costs through the CEDC Tourism Development Fund.
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The Terry Fox Monument and Visitor Centre
is open daily year-round from 9 am to 5 pm.
Visitor Services
Telephone:807-983-2041 - Local
1-800-MOST-FUN (667-8386) Toll Free
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