Thunder Bay’s culinary scene has exploded over the past few years and food events have become a popular way to showcase the unique and growing globally influenced food scene that we all cherish. Many events take place throughout the summer months when one can enjoy entertainment and food in our wonderful open air environment. However, Thunder Bay offers food events all year long at restaurants and local indoor venues. Some of the major food events that take place in Thunder Bay include the fall and winter editions of the Northern Delights, Folklore Festival, Festival of India, Festa Italiana, BrewHa!, Ribfest, and Novemburger.
Northern Delights
Tourism Thunder Bay’s semi-annual Northern Delights campaign kicks things off for food events Thunder Bay. The event takes place every year in February and October, offering patrons the perfect opportunity to discover delicious cuisine and celebrate the local restaurant and food scene. During the month long festival, participating restaurants offer menus using local ingredients giving locals and visitors the opportunity to sample Thunder Bay’s burgeoning culinary scene.
Folklore Festival
May sees the Fort William Gardens comes alive with culinary aromas from around the world during the annual Folklore Festival. The event features culinary delights such as Pilipino, Polish, Italian, Ukrainian and other global cuisines. Visitors can also enjoy dancing, drumming, and other cultural activities from around the world.
Festival of India
In July, Marina Park will be full of colour during the annual Festival of India and Festival of Colours events. Come celebrate the Indian culture with live entertainment including live Kirtan music, traditional Indian cuisine prepared by an East Indian chef, an interactive dance parade, and of course the popular Colour Throwing event called the Holi.
Festa Italiana
The Bay & Algoma Heritage neighbourhood comes alive every August Civic Holiday when locals and visitors gather at the Italian Cultural Centre to celebrate the Italian culture during Festa Italiana. Festival goers can enjoy the sounds of Italian music while enjoy the most popular Italian dishes including gnocchi, panzerotti, spaghetti, and many other popular Italian dishes.
BrewHa!
Over the past few years the craft beer scene has exploded in Thunder Bay. BrewHa takes over Marina Park with visitors celebrating the craft beer industry while enjoying live entertainment. Popular breweries such as Lake of the Woods, Sleeping Giant and Dawson Trail Breweries are regular breweries at the festival. While newer breweries like One Time Brewing Co, Lakehead Beer Co and the Prospector Brew house round out our robust craft beer scene.
RibFest
From August 25-28, ribbers take over the CLE grounds for their annual Ribfest event featuring local and out of town ribbers. The popular event has seen huge lines for those fall off the bone ribs while supporting local charities so make sure you arrive early or be prepare for a wait.
Novemburger
In November, local restaurants come out to support the United Way of Thunder Bay, during their annual Novembuger. The annual month long event features restaurants around Thunder Bay creating new and unique hamburgers, while duking it out for the title of top burger in town in a friendly burger battle.
With food events becoming more popular, new and small events start on a regular basis.
For additional events visit www.visitthunderbay.com/eventscalendar.
While you’re in T-Bay, be sure to explore the diverse and dynamic food scene.
