'One of Ontario's top destinations': Newmarket named Municipality of the Year by Festivals and Events Ontario

Mark these dates on your calendar to take part in town festivals and events this year

Yorkregion.com
March 14, 2023
Lisa Queen

Every year, more than 50,000 residents and visitors flock to Newmarket events, including Tim Hortons Canada Day, the TD Newmarket Music Series, the York Region Pride Festival, New’bark’et presented by Global Pet Foods and the Haunted Halloween Trail.

Now, Festival and Events Ontario has named Newmarket as Municipality of the Year for its special events in the mid-sized municipality category (communities with a population of 50,000 to 150,000).

“Winning Municipality of the Year from Festivals and Events Ontario puts Newmarket on the map as one of Ontario’s top destinations for music, arts and local events,” Mayor John Taylor said.

“What I love about our events is the energy you feel at them and that there is truly an event for everyone in our community. I’m incredibly proud of our staff for coming back so strong after pausing and pivoting during the pandemic, to bring our community back together in person when we needed it the most.”

Festivals and events are an important part of a town’s social fabric by creating opportunities for individuals and families to gather and celebrate throughout the year and to foster community-building, the town said in a statement.

That is especially important as the town grows and welcomes new residents into the community. Special events also drive economic growth and create opportunities for local businesses, vendors, sponsors and volunteers to participate within the community, the town said.

In addition to the special events the town hosts itself, the town supports numerous local events and gatherings hosted by the chamber of commerce, sports organizations and community groups.

Wondering what festivals and events you can look forward to for the rest of the year?

Here’s a list:

Community Cleanup -- May 6

York Region Pride Festival -- June 16 and 17

Canada Day daytime event and fireworks -- July 1

TD Newmarket Music Series -- Thursday nights from July 6 to Aug. 24

Moonlight Movies -- Tuesdays and Wednesdays in August

New’bark’et -- Sept. 9 and 10

Haunted Halloween Trail --Oct. 26 to 28

Kid’s Trick-or-Treat Trail -- Oct. 28

Santa Claus Parade -- Nov. 18

Frozen Fridays -- Fridays in December

First Night -- Dec. 31

For more information, visit newmarket.ca/events.