By Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Oakville is gearing up for three weeks of arts and culture festivities as Culture Days returns from September 20 to October 13.
The town and communities across Canada will host events to celebrate creativity and artistic expression. This year, Oakville has the distinction of being an official Ontario Culture Days Festival Hub, offering locals a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant arts scene in their community.
With more than 150 local events, residents can look forward to exhibitions, workshops, and performances throughout the town.
Highlights include the “Harmony in Culture” artist project at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre on September 21, workshops at River Oaks Community Centre on September 28, and the Crossing Community Heritage Day at Lions Valley Park on the same day. Other venues, such as the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate and Trafalgar Township Historical Society, will also host hands-on activities and historical tours during the event.
“Oakville’s vibrant arts and culture scene truly makes our town special. Being named an official Culture Days Hub highlights the unique contributions of our local artists, creators, and community groups. It’s amazing to see how everyone rallied to present such dynamic and inclusive programs that make Oakville come alive during Culture Days,” said Mayor Rob Burton.
In addition to the local offerings, residents can also enjoy performances by the Oakville Symphony Orchestra and Music Without Borders at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts on October 5, as well as a variety of public art installations, including the “We Are Kerr” project, which features painted benches, banner art, and a new ground mural in Heritage Square.
Last year, Oakville ranked first overall in Canada for Culture Days, standing out for its wide-ranging and inclusive programming. The town hosted nearly 100 events, earning recognition for festivals such as the “World of Threads” and collaborative efforts like “A Place I Call Home Halton.” For the past 12 years, Oakville has consistently ranked among Ontario’s top 10 cities and towns for its Culture Days participation.
Culture Days is a national celebration of arts and culture that encourages public engagement with local art forms. It offers behind-the-scenes experiences and hands-on activities for free. In 2023, the event featured more than 3,000 activities across 300 communities, drawing 4.4 million participants—a record turnout representing 12 percent of Canada’s population.
As Oakville prepares for another successful Culture Day, the town’s focus on fostering creativity and community spirit promises to make this year’s event another unforgettable celebration of arts and culture.