The Bay & Algoma Buskers Festival is set to return to Thunder Bay, Ontario, this summer, bringing two days of street performances, local food, and artisan goods to the downtown neighbourhood. Organized by the Bay & Algoma Business Improvement Area, the 11th annual event will take place on July 25 and 26, 2026.
The festival creates a lively atmosphere for residents and visitors. Admission is free, with performers earning their income through voluntary tips and donations from the audience. Attendees can expect a diverse range of entertainment, including singers, dancers, magicians, stilt walkers, comedians, and acrobats.
The event first launched in 2012 following the reconstruction of Algoma Street, which introduced wider sidewalks and a more pedestrian-friendly environment. After a four-year hiatus during the pandemic, the festival returned in 2023, drawing thousands of attendees each day. Organizers are currently seeking talent and support for the upcoming weekend, with applications now open on the event website for performers, vendors, and volunteers.