The streets of downtown Whitby will close to cars for a free, family-friendly street festival on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The Home Sweet Home Festival returns for its second year, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and promising local vendors, live music, and activities for all ages.
Organized by the Town of Whitby and the Downtown Whitby BIA, the event will transform the core into a pedestrian-only celebration. Last year’s first festival drew thousands with a 300-foot zipline, an artisan marketplace, and historic walking tours.
This year, organizers are shining a light on a serious local issue through the Home Sweet Home Helps the Homeless initiative. Mayor Elizabeth Roy has said homelessness is a growing challenge in Whitby and across Ontario. By early 2026, 271 of the 1,707 people on Durham Region’s By-Name List were located in Whitby.
Festival-goers can help in two direct ways. The Donate for Dunks challenge is a dunk tank where people can take aim at local leaders and personalities to raise money. Last year, Mayor Roy and Whitby MP Ryan Turnbull were among those who got soaked. The Pack with Purpose program lets families assemble summer care kits on site, stuffing them with water bottles, socks, sunscreen, snacks, and hygiene products for people in the community experiencing homelessness.
The charitable push adds to other town efforts, including the 1635 Dundas Street shelter that opened in 2024 and operates near capacity. Admission to the festival is free, and all activities are designed to bring the community together while making a tangible difference for neighbours in need.
