Jumpin’ June! DIscover the thrill of summer in South Eastern Ontario

Rosanne Lake

June brings with it a certain magic - on the cusp of summer, holding loads of promise, everything is freshly open for the season - and your summer vacation is so close you can taste it. Start your planning with this round up of 53 June events that live up to the hype of summer in SEO!

Happy Pride month! For all things Pride, please read out “Celebrate Pride” blog.

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1. Until June 14: Sugar Road at the Thousand Islands Playhouse Gananoque
Sugar Road is a heartfelt story about the one that got away—and the sweet surprises life delivers when you least expect them. See it at the Springer Theatre, Thousand Islands Playhouse, Canada’s Dockside Theatre in Gananoque on until June 14!

2. June 6: Naturally L&A Gravel Ride

Get ready for a backroad cycling adventure! This fantastic 53 km route takes you through the rural countryside in Stone Mills Township, crisscrossing the Salmon River into the communities of Centreville, Croydon, Tamworth and Enterprise. Enjoy extra fun with live music, local treats and a cold drink at the end of the ride!

3. June 6: Art on the Waterfront in Chesterville

Be inspired at this colourful, open-air gallery - Art on the Waterfront! Featuring artwork, jewelry, crafts, and much more. Also look for demonstrations from local martial artists, dancers, a kids’ zone performers, and live music!

4. June 6: A Glengarry Affair - Local Wine & Food at Stonehouse Vineyard
Celebrate local wine, food and kick off the upcoming tasting season! This 8th annual event promises a giant smoker, proteins from Kirkview Farms, live music and exceptional wine pairings.

5. June 6: Spring Flower Fest at Sunwheel Farm in Alexandria
Thousands of blooms are flowering in the fields, fresh air, beautiful countryside, fresh-cut flower shopping, photo ops in the fields, treats and more! If it sounds like the perfect spring day - it is. Don’t miss it!

6. June 6: Blue Rodeo at the Drill Hall PEC

After a sold-out show last summer, Canadian icons, Blue Rodeo, return! Celebrating more than four decades of music success, Blue Rodeo is ingrained in Canadian culture - see the band live to experience the legends in person.

7. June 6: Red Canoefest, Seeley’s Bay

Seeley’s Bay will be buzzing on June 6 when the Red Canoefest takes over the waterfront! The day starts with breakfast and a free kid’s fishing derby, and continues with a paddling silent poker run, barbecue and more. New this year is a “Find the Red Canoe” scavenger hunt! Watch for more details on the SBARA Facebook page or here.

8. June 7: OPP Golden Helmets in North Grenville
The Golden Helmets are coming! This precision motorcycle team is bringing their skill, precision riding and crowd favourite, motorcycle formations, to the North Grenville Municipal Centre from 11 am to 2 pm. With free admission, airbrushing tattoos, parking and food vendors, there is something for the whole family to enjoy.

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9. June 9: Circus Rocks in Kemptville
The ultimate family outing! The circus is coming to the North Grenville Municipal Centre with brand-new thrills and chills. From the funny clowns to the awe-inspiring skills of jugglers, there’s something for everyone!

10. June 12 to 13: OHL Priority Selection in Kingston
For the first time in 25 years, the OHL Priority Selection is in-person! This experience is taking place June 12 and 13 at Slush Puppie Place in Kingston. This event, in partnership with Tourism Kingston, will be a key moment on the OHL calendar, with teams selecting top prospects from across Canada and the United States!

11. June 12 and 13: Laser Guided Stargazing Tour L&A County

The popular laser-guided night sky tours are back! Get an informative laser-guided tour of the night sky and maybe get the chance to peek through a telescope during this event that starts about an hour after dusk at the Lennox and Addington County Dark Sky Viewing Area.

12. June 12 and 13: 1000 Islands Country Fest Legends
Stomp on over to Happy Green Acres campground this month as they’re going down home country. Featuring tribute artists for Vince Gill, Patsy Cline, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks and more, it’s sure to be a hoot!

13. June 13: South Shore Fest
Celebrate early summer with discovery, learning and lots of local spirit! Step into nature at South Shore Fest, where visitors find everything from a laser guided night sky tour, to forest bathing to guided walks, live music and even an Avro Arrow display! Taking place at Mariners Park Museum in Milford.

14. June 13: Napanee Heritage 5K and Kids 1-miler
Family fun and run! The Napanee Heritage 5K and Kids 1-miler is a well-organized event that starts and ends at Lennox and Addington County Museum and Archives, located at 97 Thomas Street East in Napanee. Race profits are donated directly back into the Napanee community in support of physical or mental health initiatives.

15. June 13: YGK Craft Beer Festival
The unofficial kick-off to summer is back! The YGK Craft Beer Festival invites you to sip on the finest local craft beers and beverages, indulge your taste buds with drool-worthy food and snacks, enjoy all-day live music, games and meet local makers. Taking place along the waterfront in Kingston, on South Hill at Fort Henry, the location is part of the experience, with amazing water and city views all day, adding to the experience.

16. June 13 and 14: Odessa Flea Market, Craft and Car Show

The Upper Canada Region of the Antique & Classic Car Club of Canada is celebrating a milestone this year as they host the annual Odessa Flea Market, Craft and Car Show! This year marks 50 years of hosting the show! Classic antique cars will be on display allowing guests to take a look into yesteryear. Don’t miss it!

17. June 13: Cannonball Crush
Get ready to storm the historic grounds of Fort Henry! Push your limits at Cannonball Crush, Kingston’s most challenging obstacle course race. This 5 km race  is packed with more than 15 modern and historically themed obstacles. Test your strength and reserve your spot!

18. June 13 and 14: Greater Napanee Model Train Show

All aboard! The Greater Napanee Valley Railroad presents 16,500 square feet of excitement at the 8th Annual Model Train Show. View fascinating operating train layouts and hobby vendors at the Best & Bash Arena in Napanee!

19. June 17 to 20: Galop Canal Bluegress Festival in Iroquois 

This four-day outdoor music festival celebrates traditional bluegrass and country music in the scenic community of Iroquois! Bringing together music fans for a weekend of live performances, camping, jam sessions, in a small-town atmosphere makes it a special event, featuring artists from across Canada and the United States.

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20. June 19: Downtown at Dusk in Bay of Quinte
Experience the summer solstice celebration with an epic street party on Front Street! Live music, patios, salsa dancing, artisan and fashion markets await as the downtown is turned into a pedestrian promenade. Relish the start of summer in the city!

21. June 10 to 20: Cottagers and Indians 
A play put on by a new Indigenous theatre company in Tyendinaga - Cottagers and Indians explore the politics and issue surrounding a real-life event still occurring in the Kawarth Lakes region of Central Ontario. Catch a show at the Tyendinaga Mohawk Community Centre! 

22. June 19 to September: VORTEX at ANDARA Gallery in Prince Edward County
This exhibition is as unique as they come. It combines art, music, wine and tap-to-play tech to create an immersive PEC experience inspired by Astrid Young’s latest album. Explore new works by ANDARA artists, curated wine pairings from local wineries, interactive music features, as well as special opening night concerts June 19 and 20. 

23. June 19: Scripts and Sips at Karlo Estates

Offering a uniquely social and engaging way to experience theatre, Scripts & Sips allows guests to enjoy local wines while taking in play readings of fresh work in development. The season teaser is set for Karlos Estates with the 2026 acting ensemble from the County Stage Company performing excerpts from the season ahead.

24. June 19: Go-Boy! Film Screening and Q&A.
Paradox Pictures Inc. presents Go-Boy!: Memories of a Life Behind Bars at the Historic SDG Jail. Tickets include a screening of the film followed by a live Q&A with the producer, Rob Lindsay. Tickets also include a self-guided tour of the jail!

25. June 20: SOS The ABBA Experience at Stone Crop Acres
This isn’t just a show, but an ABBA-charged celebration unlike anything you’ve experienced before! From the second the lights go up, it’s non-stop energy, iconic hits, stunning costumes, and the kind of connection that turns an evening out into an unforgettable memory. Sing and dance along! 

26. June 20: Glengarry Pioneer Museum Smith-In
Sparks will fly when hammers meet steel! This year marks the 10th anniversary of this event! Hear the anvils ring as blacksmiths gather from across Ontario, Quebec and the US to meet at Dunvegan. See blacksmiths demonstrating projects, replica 19th century bellows forge demo, local craft vendors, children’s activities (make your own weathervane) and food!

27. June 20: Doors Open at Rossland Gardens Amherst Island
From 10 am to 4:30 p.m., visitors are invited to experience one of Amherst Island’s most historic properties! Rossland Gardens stands on Amherst Island’s oldest farmsteads, established in 1790. Admission is free for Doors Open - end your visit with a stop at the gallery for a free beverage.

28. June 20: Princess Street Promenade in Kingston
Take a stroll down Princess Street and revel in this popular festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.! The promenade closes part of Princess Street making for the perfect opportunity to enjoy Downtown Kingston. Walk about and visit local shops, grab a bite to eat at downtown restaurants, and spend the day downtown! 

29. June 20: Lakes and Trails Festival in South Frontenac

Celebrate the outdoors and beauty of the region! The Lakes and Trails Festival is a free, family-friendly summer event that shines a light on the natural opportunities here. The event takes place at McMullen Park Beach in Verona. From Little Ray’s Reptiles to a guided bird walk and inflatables, it’s a jam-packed day of outdoor fun!

30. June 20: Doors Open Loyalist Township
Spend the day discovering some local history first-hand and celebrate the community’s heritage on June 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Doors Open Ontario is a province-wide celebration that provides a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy interesting places and spaces in communities across Ontario – all free of charge!

31. June 20: Fairies in the Park
Calling all fairies, wizards, mermaids and friends! The annual Fairies in the Park event is set to sprinkle magic on June 20 at St. Lawrence Park in Brockville! Meet magical characters, get your face painted, bounce around and take part in kids activities! Admission is free, but donations for I Am Alive Dog and Cat Rescue.

32. June 20: Dog Mania in Cornwall
This lively, family‑friendly celebration of all things canine, features engaging shows, demonstrations, and activities that shine a light on the joy dogs bring to life! Meet local vendors, learn from experts, and enjoy a fun day out with your four‑legged companion.

33. June 20: Stoney Steps Artfest

This juried outdoor art show features fine arts and crafts created by more than 55 skilled Canadian makers. Set along the banks of the Napanee River in Newburgh, Stoney Steps Artfest welcomes guests to spend the day shopping for handmade goods, relax under a tree, listen to musicians, watch live demonstrations and nosh on lunch and homemade pie.

34. June 21: Cars and Canvas in Kemptville
The perfect Father’s Day outing! A full day of cars and art is coming to Kemptville - start by exploring a fantastic lineup of vehicles from the Hwy. 43 Car Club including classic rides and crowd favourites. Next, wander over to a fundraiser barbecue to grab a bite, before heading to Riverside Park to view locally made art with the North Grenville Arts Guild show. Wander between events and enjoy a relaxed day out!

35. June 21: RCMP Musical Ride at Fort Wellington Prescott
A Canadian tradition at one of Prescott’s most historic settings! The RCMP Musical Ride will showcase pageantry, precision, and horsemanship that have made the Ride a signature national experience. Set at Fort Wellington overlooking the St. Lawrence River, the afternoon begins with the Akwasasne Singers and is followed by the ride. Free admission!

36. June 21: Father’s Day Car Show and Breakfast in Spencerville
Bring Dad out for a fantastic morning of classic cars, hot breakfast, community spirit and fun at the Spencerville Fairgrounds. Start with a hearty brekkie and then look for more than 100 vehicles, ranging from classic cars, trucks, hot rods, antiques, customs, to unique movers and shakers from across the region. 

37. June 21: National Indigenous Peoples Day at Upper Canada Village
Join Upper Canada Village in recognizing and celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day, honouring the history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. Experience meaningful cultural performances and explore displays in the Discovery Centre.

38. June 25 and 26: Endless Summer World Long Drive Championship
The world’s biggest long drive championship is taking place at Trillium Wood Golf
Club, Corbyville! Watch world-class long drivers crush 400+ yard bombs under the lights. This is where golf meets music, energy and summer vibes!

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39. June 26 to 28: Earth and Spirit Women’s Retreat

Celebrate summer solstice in the forest, during this women’s retreat hosted by The Wild Edge at Wintergreen Studios! It’s all about deep relaxation, workshops that stir wisdom and wellbeing. Slow down, breathe deeply and stir the fire within.

40. June 26 to July 3 Shark World Regatta 150

The Shark 24 World Championship Regatta is coming to Bay of Quinte! Best viewing in the BoQ spots include Meyers Pier, Victoria Park or Zwick’s Park. It’s all part of the Bay of Quinte Yacht Club’s 150 year anniversary celebrations!

41. June 26 to July 12: Art in the County
Be inspired at Art in the County, a signature event of the summer season in Prince Edward County. The show attracts thousands of visitors and showcases the highest quality works of art by Prince Edward County artists and artisans. The 33rd annual Art in the County Juried Exhibition and Sale will be held from June 26 to July 12 at the County Arts Lab, located at 206 Main St. W. at The Armoury.


42. June 26 to 28: Artfest Kingston
Where do more than 200 artists meet each year? At Artfest Kingston in City Park! Artists and artisans from across Ontario and Quebec are in Kingston from June 26 to 28, 2026. Walk the shady paths throughout the park. Enjoy outstanding pottery, glass, wood, jewellery, gourmet food, live music, art workshops and poetry and more!

43. June 26 to 28: Maxville Fair

Highlighting the community’s rich heritage, the Maxville Fair includes agricultural showcases, live music, family activities and traditional competitions. Great way to spend the weekend as a family!

44. June 26 to 28: Thousand Islands Ribfest
The smallest community to host Ribfest in Canada welcomes over 8,000 visitors every year! The Rotary & Lions Clubs of Gananoque give 100 percent of proceeds back to the community - look for this annual event at Lou Jeffries Arena in Gananoque. Our mouths are watering just thinking about all that sauce. Yum! 

45. June 26 to 27: Dev Fest in Cornwall
Summer vibes are here at Dev Fest - featuring two nights of ultimate live music to get your Canada Day weekend started! Performers include The Strumbellas, The Trews and more! Rock the night away at the Dev Hotel & Conference Centre.

46. June 27: Artwalk in Cornwall

Be a part of this vibrant outdoor celebration of creativity! During ArtWalk, Downtown Cornwall transforms into a lively hub of visual art, live performances, and interactive exhibits, showcasing the work of talented local artists. Stroll the streets, enjoy live music and enjoy the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.

47. June 27: New Orford String Quartet in Stella

Join in for an unforgettable afternoon of electrifying music! The New Orford String Quartet brings amazing synergy and stunning performances. Whether you’re a classical fan or just curious, this is the perfect chance to immerse yourself in beautiful string music in an inspired setting, with the Waterside Summer Series.

48. June 27 to 28: Amherst Island Art Tour
Enjoy a day exploring Amherst Island while touring artist stops! With 18 artists over nine locations, it’s a great way to take in everything from silversmithing to painting, and from pottery to metal stringed instruments, felted wool, and art glass jewelry. The island is abuzz with creativity - discover why!

49. June 27: Canada Celebrates FIFA World Cup in Kingston
This free event is part of a nationwide tour, stopping at only 34 communities in Canada. Join the celebration Saturday, June 27 in Springer Market Square. With match screenings, a pop-up pitch, cultural experiences, and live entertainment it’s sure to be awesome! Springer Market Square, in the heart of downtown Kingston, will come alive as an all-day interactive FIFA World Cup™ fan zone. This free, family-friendly celebration is part of the Canada Celebrates FIFA World Cup™ Tour, a first-of-its-kind nationwide program - and Kingston is proud to be a stop along the way. 

50. Last week of June: Chaffey's Lockmaster's House Textile Exhibit 2026 

The Chaffey’s Lockmaster’s House this summer features an exhibit on textiles in the area from Indigenous times to the mid-20th century! Quilts, dresses, men’s clothing, and hats are all shown including a wedding dress worn by several generations of one family. All of the quilts on display are locally made. The most interesting quilt includes one from the 1870s done by women in the Clear Lake area from old dress remnants. The Lockmaster’s House Museum in Chaffey’s Lock will be opening the last week of June and should be open seven days a week until near the end of August.

51. June 27: The Plowboys at The Pews
Where traditional country music meets the sparkle of rhinestone suits! Country music as it was meant to be played - this five-piece ensemble has been strumming and singing together for 10 years, dazzling audiences with their authentic musical experience. See them in Merrickville at the Pews on June 27 starting at 7:30 pm.

52. June 27 and 28: Rideau Lakes Studio Tour
Discover the art of creative minds at work in Rideau Lakes on Canada Day weekend! Enjoy incredible original art, sculptures, pottery, weaving, wood burning, and more. The Rideau Lakes Studio Tour celebrates 28 years and promises a spectacular showcase of Rideau Lakes’ finest artists. The event features more than 20 artists opening their studios to the public, allowing visitors to see how these talented creators work their magic. 

53. June 28: Open Fields Poker Run SDG Counties
Explore some of the region's best agri-tourism destinations for your chance to build the winning poker hand and take home the $500 cash prize! Whether you’re a poker enthusiast, a car lover, or looking for a fun day of exploration with friends, this event will be up your alley!

Welcome back to…

The Prescott Pop-Ups: Now open for the season on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday! Prescott’s waterfront brings together local food, shopping, drinks, rentals and river views in RiverWalk District. The Pop-Ups are an easy stop for a weekend lunch, a treat by the water, a paddle from the harbour, or a relaxed browse through seasonal shops and vendors.

The Lost Villages Museum: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., June to August. Located in Ault Park east of Long Sault. The museum site consists of 10 heritage buildings, moved and restored to Ault Park from The Lost Villages and surrounding townships by the members of The Lost Villages Historical Society, commemorating the inundation of lands to the south of the museum complex on July 1, 1958. Both the interiors and exteriors of the buildings have been restored, and assembled in a village-like setting at Ault Park!

Daily tours of Kingston Penitentiary: Kingston Pen Tours offer an in-depth look at life behind the walls of Canada’s oldest maximum-security prison. Take an intriguing guided tour and hear first-hand accounts from retired corrections staff!

So much to see and do in South Eastern Ontario this June! Kick off summer and explore SEO.

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