Things to See & Do

Thorold has outstanding festivals and events featured throughout the year. Many of our local events and seasonal attractions cater to an infusion of tourists as well as residents from the city and throughout Niagara.

• Experience the Blues ambiance of the Canal Bank Shuffle Blues Festival: A three day long, annual Fall festival of music and dance in the downtown core, the Shuffle attracts some of North America's top Blues musicians and features more than 20 acts at a dozen venues within walking distance of each other. Also watch for the Spring Shuffle, a two-night sample of acts and talent

• Learn about the city’s Italian heritage at the Niagara Italian Festival in late June. The event celebrates Italian culture, food, drink, dance and entertainment. Thorold is rich in Italian history and is the ideal location for a region-wide celebration. Usually held the last weekend in June.

• Mountain Top Ceremony - Held at the Lock 7 Viewing Complex, this annual celebration marks the opening of the Welland Canal shipping season with the arrival of the first ship of the year through Lock 7. Usually held in late March.

• Thorold Arts & Crafts Show -  held during the last weekend of May each year at the Thorold Community Arena on Front Street, this more than 30-year-old event was originally held during the month of July at  Battle of Beaverdams  Park, but moved in 2007 to its current location and date.

• Annual Thorold BIA Car Show – Front Street in downtown Thorold is the location for this annual event, held in July.

• Thorold Santa Claus Parade - An evening event, the annual Santa Claus Parade is held in late November, and runs through the downtown core.

• Christmas Arts & Crafts Show - The fall season Arts & Crafts Show is held at Thorold Secondary School on the third weekend of November each year.

Thorold offers a multitude of attractions that will appeal to everyone! Visit the Flight Locks and the Lock 7 Viewing Complex for an entertaining and informative look at the Welland Canal system. Take in the area's largest collection of original local artwork at the BIA Art Gallery downtown. Be thrilled by fast cars at Merrittville Speedway, where non-stop excitement and the thrill of dirt-racing keeps you on the edge of your seat. Spend a fun-filled family afternoon at the Howell Family Pumpkin Farm – rides, mazes, and of course, great  food.

For more information regarding Thorold's events and attractions, contact Terry Dow, Tourism Co-ordinator, at 905-680-9477.