HEY DURHAM!
Durham Region has a bustling population spread across 8 cities and towns and is home to everything from a major tech university to pristine forests.
Reconnect Durham makes it easy for you to connect with your neighbours and find fun events close to home. Whether you live in Pickering, Scugog or anywhere else in Durham, we've got you covered. Sign up for the free newsletter below to get immediate access.
EVENTS
Check out these fun events happening in Durham below
Map
Upcoming Events
Registration required. Please email recreation@alzheimerdurham.com In Partnership with Alzheimer Society Durham Region. Brain Waves Cafe is a monthly 1.5 hour drop-in cafe for persons with cognitive change and their care partners, family, and friends. Coffee, tea, and stimulating conversation provided in a dementia-friendly atmosphere.
Learn more here.
Join us for an epic night of fun, games and music! Not to mention delicious food & drinks. If you're searching for something fun and different to do? Look no further than Fionn MacCool's on Thursday night! Music Bingo is a blast, requires literally no musical talent, and all supplies are provided. It's fun, it's free and there are prizes awarded all night long! Come as an individual or as a group. Advance registration is recommended or just take your chances at the door.
Learn more here.
Do you write; poetry, short stories, or music? Are you interested in sharing and honing your craft with like-minded others? Or perhaps you just enjoy listening to and discussing the arts? Consider checking out this group that meets monthly via Zoom. While art, music, written and spoken word are all welcome contributions in this virtual space, participants are not required to share their personal works; enjoying is participation enough! The Muse group meets at 7:00 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month via the Zoom platform. For more information and to request a sign-in link, please contact Negin Khorasani at 416-939-4567 or negin.motamed.khorasani@gmail.com
Learn more here.
Buzzing Bees Adventure Farm in Sunderland, Ont. is opening to the public for the first our Haskap berry (AKA Honeyberry) orchard for a U-Pick. We’ll be opening weekends from June 29th till July 28th for our 8 varieties of Haskap berries. Also included, your family can enjoy a number of fun activities like the pedal kart track, field bowling, elastic band shooting range, toddler pedal tractors, giant sand box, slides and more. Admission is $10 per person which include two 170g containers of U-pick Haskap berries and access to the play area. Children 2 and under are included with adult admission. Haskap berries also known as Honeyberry is a new super fruit that has been found in the wild in every province in Canada except for British Columbia. Through some great work from the University of Saskatchewan new Canadian varieties have been developed. The taste is quite often compared to a cross between raspberry and blueberry, with a vitamin C zing. Haskap berries are high in Vitamin C and A, fiber, and potassium. Specifically they have three times the antioxidants of a blueberry, similar amount of vitamin C to an orange and almost as much potassium as a banana. They are extremely high in antioxidants such as Anthocyanins, Poly Phenols, and Bioflavanoids. Available upon request are tours of our 1375 sq/ft geodesic growing dome. You can learn how the unique design and feature allow for growing all year round without external heat.
Learn more here.
Bring your instrument and share your music or just come and be entertained by the local talent. All ages and abilities are welcome. Both open mics lean towards the acoustic side of things, but electric instruments are welcome (though plugging directly into the PA or bringing a small amplifier is preferred). If you want to perform, there will be a sign up sheet available half an hour before the start time. Please introduce yourself so he can put a face to the name on the sheet. Brian will start the evening with a few tunes and then start through the sign up sheet. Each performer will perform 3-4 tunes, depending on how busy the night is. If there is time, we will go back to the top of the list for another song or two.
Learn more here.
Find us in the North West parking lot at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex. Every Tuesday starting June 18 until October 8 9 am - 2 pm
Learn more here.
Join us for free concerts every Sunday afternoon! July and August, except August 11th and 18th.
Learn more here.
Welcome to the “New” Oshawa Markets! While we’re new to Oshawa, the former Pickering Markets have been operating in Durham Region since 1973. Our new location is 90,000 sq ft of amazing local businesses! Our Marketplace floor is comprised of many local, independent businesses from across the GTA who have made the Markets their home each Sat/Sun. They join our family for many reasons. Some are opening a second storefront for their daily businesses, some own online stores and want a part-time storefront, and some just love the social, family-friendly atmosphere at the Markets. Our vendors sell merchandise, crafts, food, and collectibles, spending the week sourcing their product in anticipation of the weekend crowds.
Learn more here.
Registration required. A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it's up to you! The event takes place at Duffins Trail (we start near the parking lot), Elizabeth St & Old Kingston Rd, Ajax, ON L1T 2W8 Please follow the website link to register and obtain a barcode: https://www.parkrun.ca/duffinstrail/
Join us on Saturday mornings for family fun and creativity! We’ll have crafts and activities for children and their parents or caregivers to work on together and Leslie will share some stories and songs. Drop in anytime between 10:30 and 12 for some free family fun! Registration is not required.
Learn more here.
Qi means “energy” and Gong means “to work with”. Qigong is working with the body’s energy. We will explore the causes of energy blockages in the body by warming up the body and doing some active exercises. This practice can be done sitting or standing.
Learn more here.
Find your voice at Toastmasters! Hear some great speakers, enjoy warm conversation and watch a Toastmasters meeting unfold. Toastmasters International is a non-profit organization which gives its members the opportunity to develop and improve their public speaking abilities through local club meetings, training seminars and speech contests. At Toastmasters, members learn by speaking to groups and working with others in a supportive environment. A typical Toastmasters club is made up of 20 to 30 people who meet once a week for about an hour. Each meeting gives everyone an opportunity to practice conducting meetings, giving impromptu speeches, presenting prepared speeches, and offering constructive evaluation. This is a drop-in event. Light refreshments will be served
For more information about Pickering Powerhouse Toastmasters, visit: https://6809.toastmastersclubs...
Learn more here.
This instructor-led line dancing class welcomes new and practicing line dancers to learn some fun line dances or just come for the great exercise and laughter. Music is not limited to Country — dance to Top 40, Hip Hop, Ballroom, Blues, Funk, Latin, Irish, Swing and much more. You don’t need a partner but you can bring a friend(s) and have a lot of fun. To register, contact Loretta at 705.432.3322, ext. 106 or lfheaslip@brockchc.ca.
Learn more here.
For newcomers in the Pickering area looking to practice conversational English, meet new people, and learn about your community. Join us for a one hour conversation circle in partnership with Community Development Council Durham.
Learn more here.
Board games are not boring! Staff will introduce you to a great new game every month. New and experienced players are welcome.
Learn more here.
For newcomers in the Pickering area looking to practice conversational English, meet new people, and learn about your community. Join us for a one hour conversation circle in partnership with Community Development Council Durham.
Learn more here.
Join us for free concerts every Friday night! July and August, except August 23rd
Learn more here.
Every Friday from 1-6pm. We offer truly local and farm fresh produce along with baked goods, treats, jams, jellies, flowers and much more. Please bring your own bag. Every Friday from 1-6pm North end of Orono Fairgrounds Orono Farmers Market Steering Committee
Learn more here.
It's a New Year and the beat keeps growing on! We're back in the cozy cafe with the best line up of eclectic artists this side of the Rouge Valley! It's always a pleasant surprise who comes through the door ready to cut loose and the room is always ready for something different. It's how we grow! Same time, same place, same friendly smiles and service and best of all - same great music community spirit! TGIF! See you there. $5 cover for everyone.
Learn more here.
Welcome to the Neighbours Art Hive Project at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery! We're starting the New Year off with an Art Hive at Residence at Oshawa's RMG. For 6 weeks on Friday afternoons you're welcome to join us between 12 - 4 PM to make art, take care of yourself and create community in this exciting collaboration!
Learn more here.
Online registration required. Please note: separate registration is required for each week. No event will be held March 7th. Engage, socialize, and learn, just for adults! Relax and unwind while delving into new topics each week. Discover new things and connect with your community!
Learn more here.
Small Town Open Mic was born to connect local songwriters and musicians, inspire creativity & encourage collaboration. As of August, 2023, Small Town Open Mic runs every Thursday from 7-10pm at Old Flame Brewery in Port Perry. The aim of Small Town Open Mic is to support and connect local songwriters and musicians, inspire creativity, and, of course, have fun! 🎶 Musicians: Come share your new song with strangers. Hear great music from others. Get someone else to hop on your set. Meet friends. Meet your future band. Meet other artists to gig with. Solicit all the positive feedback. We strongly encourage collaboration. This is a great place to meet other musicians and jump in on each others' sets! ✌️Playing cover songs? 2 songs per set! 👌Throwing in originals? 3 songs per set! We strongly encourage collaboration. This is a great place to meet other musicians and jump in on each others’ sets! Music-appreciators: Come out on Thursdays for a fun night full of local music! We've got: an electric guitar, an acoustic guitar, plenty of versatile mics, accompaniment, and a great time waiting for you. See you there!
Learn more here.
Relax and unwind with an evening of meditation instruction and practice.
Learn more here.
Bring your instrument and share your music or just come and be entertained by the local talent. All ages and abilities are welcome. Both open mics lean towards the acoustic side of things, but electric instruments are welcome (though plugging directly into the PA or bringing a small amplifier is preferred). If you want to perform, there will be a sign up sheet available half an hour before the start time. Please introduce yourself so he can put a face to the name on the sheet. Brian will start the evening with a few tunes and then start through the sign up sheet. Each performer will perform 3-4 tunes, depending on how busy the night is. If there is time, we will go back to the top of the list for another song or two.
Learn more here.
Meet up with fellow makers every Thursday! Bring your own projects, share ideas, and socialize. Please note: Community Makers & Artisans is run independently by community members, and is not facilitated by Pickering Public Library staff.
Learn more here.
The City of Pickering is proud to present the Summer Concert Series 2024. Join us on Thursdays from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm for a free concert at the Waterfront. Dance to a variety of live music each week. Please bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Band applications will open mid-March.
Learn more here.
Join us to kick off the holiday season at our Bright and Merry Market and Tree Lighting. There will be market vendors, live music, strolling buskers, food, children's activities and a visit from Santa! To learn more and to stay up-to-date on what we have planned www.oshawa.ca/events
Learn more here.
Join the City of Pickering and Nautical Village local businesses for an exciting event in Millennium Square this Fall. Enjoy the local vendor market, miniature train rides, live music, picturesque autumnal decorations, and giveaways... all along Pickering’s waterfront. Free and fun for all ages. More details to come.
Learn more here.
Our much anticipated Fall Fest Market returns October 5th!
Be sure to visit our 60+ vendors at Durham's most beautiful outdoor market.
Market entry is FREE! No tickets are required.
Our 60+ vendors include many local businesses as well as Emerging Talent (junior) vendors! Also, new this year, we will be creating raffle gift packages from generously donated items from our vendors - tickets available for purchase on site! As a charitable organization, events and ticket sales like these help support important conservation and preservation efforts at this National Historic Site.
Remember, there is NO parking on site during this event. Please use adjacent neighbourhood parking, O'Neill CVI non-reserved parking spots (Mary St) or Lakeridge Health Paid Parking Garage.
Learn more here.
Starring: Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Michael Keaton
PG / 1h 32min / Comedy,
Fantasy Adam and Barbara are a normal couple...who happen to be dead. They have given their precious time to decorate their house and make it their own, but unfortunately a family is moving in, and not quietly. Adam and Barbara try to scare them out, but end up becoming the main attraction to the money making family. They call upon Beetlejuice to help, but Beetlejuice has more in mind than just helping. — ahmetkozan
Recommended Age: 14+ Age Restrictions: 7+
ADVANCE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE.
ADMISSION: $7.00 Online (in advance) OR $5.00
Cash Only at Door (one hour before start time)
All Children & Students *FREE (No Ticket required)
*Children must be accompanied by an Adult
*High School, College and University students please show student ID Door Prizes!
Cash Concession Available Fill out a ballot for future movies
Learn more here.
Registration required. Take a step back in time and discover Ajax's rich history. Join us for a guided walking tour and learn about local history from various “spirits” along the way. This year will be the Pickering Village Spirit Walk and registration opens in August.
Learn more here.
This workshop will give participants the skills and confidence to start saving their own seeds. Topics covered include what are seeds, selecting seeds to save, how to store seeds and how to check for viability. The activities include identifying and gathering seeds from a nearby garden, sorting and preparing seeds for storage.
Learn more here.
This event isn't just a competition; it's a rallying cry for epilepsy awareness and a beacon of hope. It's an opportunity for the community to come together, shatter stigmas, spark conversations, and ignite change. With each team's effort, we aim to pull through the challenges and make significant traction for epilepsy support in our region.
Chelsea Kerstens, Executive Director of Epilepsy Durham Region, emphasized the importance of the cause: "Raising these funds is crucial to support local epilepsy programming and services, including our mental health initiatives in Durham Region. Whether you’re participating in the tank pull, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, your presence will help drive awareness and support for epilepsy.”
Learn more here.
Kilometres for CCD is an annual fundraising walk organized by Community Care Durham (CCD) to raise funds and awareness for CCD’s vital support services. Join your family or friends for a leisurely walk on the paved trails at Cullen Central Park in Whitby. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, activities and walk as much, or as little as you like. The event begins at 9:00am, with silent auction and prize winners announced shortly before the event ends at 12:00pm. Registration is only $5 and includes the pancake breakfast, 2024 Kilometres for CCD hat and activities for the whole family! Limited spots available. REGISTER TODAY Your participation and fundraising efforts will allow Community Care Durham (CCD) to continue to provide vital health and wellness services to clients throughout Durham Region that support mental, physical and social well-being. As a token of appreciation for your fundraising efforts, prizes will be awarded to top fundraisers. ---- Walk with us on Saturday, September 21st at Cullen Central Park in Whitby. Kilometres for CCD is an annual fundraising walk organized by Community Care Durham (CCD) to raise funds and awareness for CCD’s vital support services. Join your family or friends for a leisurely walk on the paved trails at Cullen Central Park in Whitby. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, activities and walk as much, or as little as you like. The event begins at 9:00am, with silent auction and prize winners announced shortly before the event ends at 12:00pm.
Learn more here.
Brooklin Harvest Festival is returning on September 21, 2024 from10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown Business and Restaurant owners invite you to, shop sidewalk sales, enjoy outdoor patios, pop up food experiences and explore our unique shops to find that perfect gift. Enjoy the Adventure zones with rock wall, inflatable slides,bouncers, games, dinosaurs, reptiles and much more. The streets will be lined with interactive games and activities, balloon artists, face painting, local entertainment, farmers market and vendors. Enjoy Grass Park’s newly renovated pathways and seating or relax in comfortable adirondack chairs and take in the bountiful fall colours, local entertainment, and street performances throughout day. --- Celebrate the start of the fall season featuring farmer’s market, wagon rides kids' zone with inflatables, balloon artist, face painters and scarecrow scavenger hunt. Entertainment at the main stage in Grass Park, and street performers throughout. Check out stores and restaurants on Baldwin Street to shop sidewalk sales and meet our local business owners.
Learn more here.
Join us for the freestyle En Plein Air Paint Event guided by local artist Diane Huson, set to the musical stylings of an acoustic guitarist Daelin Henschel. Your inspiration? Whitby’s picturesque waterfront and pier. Van Gogh, Monet, Dali or uniquely YOU. Discover your inner artist! Art supplies will be provided. This is a free event. No experience required. Register below to save your spot!
Please contact culture@whitby.ca if you have any questions or require any accommodations.
Learn more here.
Join us and our partners for a FREE family event and explore the exciting world of clean energy. From nuclear and hydro power, to electric mobility, immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience and see how we’re helping electrify life in one generation. To help our community members in need, non-perishable food donations are encouraged. The event will have accessible parking and access.
Learn more here.
Join us for a day of community celebration in Esplanade Park with the Gazebo Concert Stage, Artisan Market, Fashion Show, and Culturalicious.
Learn more here.
Art on the Fringe at the Uxbridge Museum grounds is an addition to the Studio Tour experience. This is a great event featuring emerging and established artists with their paintings, ceramics, fibre arts, jewelry, sculpture and more. A wonderful collection of creative artworks set in beautiful scenery amongst heritage buildings. As well as browsing and shopping with the artists, you can also purchase refreshments, listen to live music from a variety of local musicians … plus, exhibits, washrooms and parking are all accessible.
Learn more here.
Presented by: Regent Theatre and Durham Rock & Blues Festival Inc.
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL: The Durham Rock & Blues Festival will take place over four nights/three days from Thursday, September 12 through Sunday September 15, 2024.
The daytime part of the event is FREE to the public, and will take place outdoors on the Victoria St Parkette, adjacent to the Regent Theatre in Oshawa, Ontario.
Multiple bands will be performing along with food vendors and a licensed concession (cash only). Entertainers and guests will be comfortably hosted under a large tent, so the event is guaranteed to proceed rain or shine.
FRIDAY, SEPT 13, 2024 3PM-8PM
SATURDAY, SEPT 14, 2024 1PM-8PM
SUNDAY, SEPT 15, 2024 1PM-8PM
The festival will also feature four evening HEADLINER concerts in the Regent Theatre. Start times and ticket prices will be on a per event basis.
TBD - Thursday, September 12, 2024
EPIC EAGLES LIVE- Friday, September 13, 2024
FANDANGO – TRIBUTE TO ZZ TOP - Saturday, September 14, 2024
ELTON ROHN - Sunday, Spetember 15, 2024
* Concession and Vendors are CASH only. No smoking/vaping or pets permitted. Washrooms available in the Regent Theatre Lobby.
CHECK OUT THE OFFICIAL FESTIVAL WEBSITE FOR DETAILS
Learn more here.
Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Valeria Golino R / 2h 13min / Drama Charlie Babbitt, a callous self-centered young hustler who feels his late father cheated him of his 3 Million dollar inheritance discovers he has a brother he never knew about. He then discovers his brother is an autistic sevant living in an instituation. He decides to abduct him in an attempt to extort what he feels is his share of the inheritance only to find love and self awareness thanks to his new brother.
Recommended Age: 14+ Age Restrictions: 10+
ADVANCE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE.
ADMISSION: $7.00 Online (in advance) OR $5.00 Cash Only at Door (one hour before start time)
All Children & Students *FREE (No Ticket required)
*Children must be accompanied by an Adult
*High School, College and University students please show student ID
Door Prizes!
Cash Concession Available Fill out a ballot for future movies
Learn more here.
Long Hair Don't Care Tour - SEPTEMBER 1st 2024 Lineup: JUDGEMENT SUCKERPUNCH! Free Friends
Learn more here.
Learn more here.
Grab your blankets, lawn chairs and popcorn and join us for an unforgettable evenings under the stars. Movies are shown on a large, outdoor screen with concert quality sound at Whitby Civic Park (behind Town Hall) starting at dusk.
Young Asha makes a wish so powerful that it's answered by a cosmic force, a little ball of boundless energy called Star. With Star's help, Asha must save her kingdom from King Magnifico and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.
Learn more here.
Join the Uxbridge Historical Centre and Uxbridge-Scott Historical Society in celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the Quaker Hill Public School at this free, drop-in event!
Learn more here.
Hundreds of classic vehicles line downtown Oshawa streets to admire during Kars on King, in the heart of downtown Oshawa.
This event draws tourists from across Oshawa, Durham Region, and multiple provinces to showcase over 400 classic vehicles in various makes and models dating back to 1991 and older.
Live entertainment on the main stage will keep event goers hopping as they view unique vehicle craftsmanship, fun custom vehicle modifications along with free family fun in the Family Zone offering crafts, inflatables, community attractions and so much more - there's something for everyone!
Learn more here.
Seniors, you’re invited to submit your work to the annual Seniors Art Competition and Exhibition.
Your submission should be a creative interpretation of this year’s theme: “nourish”. Show us what Nourish means to you.
Important Dates:
Submission Drop Off: The Robert McLaughlin Gallery / Tuesday / Aug 15 / 10 am-4 pm
Exhibition: August 19 – September 27
Opening and Awards Reception: Gallery A, The Robert McLaughlin Gallery / Wednesday / Aug 23 / 2:30 pm
Refreshments will be provided. Kindly note that the RMG is a scent free space. In order to remain respectful of individuals who may have sensitivity to certain scents or smells, we would like to ask all visitors to help us in creating a fragrance-free environment that everyone can enjoy.
Visitor information page rmg.on.ca/visit
Learn more here.
Join us for a thrilling art event filled with entertainment for the whole family. Experience artists showcasing their work and gain a fresh perspective on the art world and its creative process. Don't miss out on our popular services like the Children's Play Area, Silent Auction for Guide Dogs, Free Parking, and Food Vendors.
Learn more here.
Our popular Haunted Ghost Tours are back this summer at the Uxbridge Historical Centre! Come along for a 45 minute tour of the Centre and listen to spooky tales and hauntings... if you're not too scared.
Learn more here.
Join us & Historic Downtown Bowmanville for the annual sidewalk sale. We will be welcoming 25+ vendors in store for you to shop from
Learn more here.
Registration required. Paint with step-by-step guidance from our instructor and create a beautiful piece of art. All supplies are provided.
Learn more here.
Join us for an artsy afternoon at the Uxbridge Historical Centre's second Sip & Dip event! Enjoy tea or coffee and some sweet treats while following an artist led paint class! (Suitable for ages 15 & up, beginner friendly class)
Learn more here.
You’ll want to bring your friends and kids to Esplanade Park for some unbelievable food! We’re transforming the park to a foodie haven, including Free Children’s Games, a beer garden and live entertainment stage. As always, admission is free and we’ll be beefing up the park with some good tunes.
AUG 9: 5PM - 9PM AUG 10: 12PM - 9PM AUG 11: 12PM - 8PM
Learn more here.
Grab your blankets, lawn chairs and popcorn and join us for an unforgettable evenings under the stars.
Movies are shown on a large, outdoor screen with concert quality sound at Whitby Civic Park (behind Town Hall) starting at dusk.
Po must train a new warrior when he's chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. However, when a powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his Staff of Wisdom, he suddenly realizes he's going to need some help. Teaming up with a quick-witted corsac fox, Po soon discovers that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places.
Learn more here.
Come on out to the Uxbridge Historical Centre for an exciting and educational evening! Learn about the local and pioneer herbs that are grown in UHC's Heritage Herb Garden during the herb talk form a local expert, how they can be used in your own kitchen, and harvest them for yourself!
Learn more here.
Starring: Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara
PG / 1h 43min / Comedy
Ferris who is a popular high school student decides he wants a day off school and convinces his girlfriend and best friend to accompany him to Chigaco for the day. During their adventure and countless mess ups the high school principal, who is used to his antics, is convinced he is not home sick and is desperate to catch him.
Recommended Age: 10+
Age Restrictions: 6+
ADVANCE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE.
ADMISSION: $7.00 Online (in advance) OR $5.00 Cash Only at Door (one hour before start time)
All Children & Students *FREE (No Ticket required)
*Children must be accompanied by an Adult
*High School, College and University students please show student ID
Door Prizes!
Cash Concession Available
Fill out a ballot for future movies
Learn more here.
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MEET YOUR COORDINATOR
Peter Cohen lives in Whitby and spends his free time playing video games, listening to music, and hanging out with his lazy dogs. He’s worked with the local group Climate Justice Durham since 2019, helping Durham Region to prepare for the climate crisis. In addition to delegating to local municipal councils on behalf of Climate Justice Durham, he has also been a member of two committees that advise Durham Regional Council on local environmental issues. Currently, Peter is pursuing a Supply Chain and Operations diploma at Durham College, as well as a Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Toronto.