Charming Ontario town set to host a massive free street festival next month

A massive summer street festival is taking over Main Street in Unionville, a quaint little community in Markham, bringing all the classic fixings of an outdoor celebration.

This June, the Unionville Festival will transform one of its prettiest and most historic streets into a vibrant, pedestrian-only party, packed with local vendors and live entertainment.

Main Street Unionville will be buzzing with live performances, patio dining, artisan markets, pop-up shopping, and community events throughout the festival weekend.

Whether you're going for the food, the shopping, or simply an excuse to spend the day strolling through Ontario's most charming main streets — a destination people flock to year-round — the festival offers something for everyone.

First launched in 1969 as a protest to save Main Street from demolition, the festival now hosts over 30,000 visitors annually, showcasing more than 500 vendors, entertainers, and over 25 unique activations.

Entertainment this year will include local busking groups, live bandstand performances, a dog show, and even a parade that will take over the street on June 6, at 10:30 a.m. 

Needless to say, the anticipation for this annual event is high. Avid festival-goers have taken to the event's official Instagram announcement, expressing their excitement.

"Can't wait for the best weekend of the year in Unionville," one user writes. "Summer's cominggg," another comment reads.

Main Street Unionville has been undergoing a significant restoration project since August 2024, which has limited the festival's capacity over the last two years. Now, with the restoration complete, this year's event is expected to feel bigger and more exciting than ever before.

The Unionville Festival takes place June 6 and 7 in Markham, Ont. and admission is free. Check the event website for more updates as the big weekend approaches.