Town of Ajax Festivals & Events

The Town of Ajax hosts inclusive and innovative events throughout the year to celebrate the richness and diversity of our community. Visit often for information about upcoming Town events and to learn more about our wide range of community events.

St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts & Culture

Image of a microphone

Our exciting 2024-2025 line-up features amazing concerts, live theatre, variety shows, and fun family-friendly performances. TIFF movies are back as well!

The St. Francis Centre has quickly become a destination for arts, culture, and heritage in Ajax, and the 2024/2025 season has it all!

Purchase Tickets and Find Out More

Ajax Markets - Thursday Nights - June 6 - October 3

Illustration of a farmer's market

The Town of Ajax is excited to welcome the community back to this year’s Ajax Markets! Stop by and support various local vendors, grab a drink from the local brewery, listen to live music or take part in our interactive games.

Thank you for a successful first season - we look forward to welcoming you next summer! 

Visit our YouTube playlist to watch our Vendor Spotlight videos from 2024!

Ajax Family New Year's Eve Party Presented by Ontario Power Generation - December 31, 2024

Illustration of two penguins and a bear ringing in 2024

Join us on December 31, 2024 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Ajax Community Centre (75 Centennial Rd) for New Year’s Eve!

It’s a time of celebration and new beginnings!

The Ajax Family New Year’s Eve Party delivers a fantastic event for the whole family. This event features arts & crafts, interactive activities, an opportunity to learn to skate*, to try sledge hockey or glow in the dark roller skating*. Party favours are included as participants gather on the ice rink for a special countdown and balloon drop at 9 p.m. It’s a great way to ring in the New Year! 

Nominal fees apply for food and beverages available at the ACC Snack Bar. Activities are subject to change without notice.

There is only one entrance into the event - Pad 4 entrance. Admission is on a first come, first served basis.  There is no re-admission once you leave.

*Note: Skates and helmets will be provided for the learn to skate and glow in the dark roller skating. Helmets are required for patrons under the age of 12.

Presenting Sponsor

Ontario Power Generation logo

Supporting Sponsor

Julia Seaton logo

 Sensory Zone 

The Sensory Friendly Zone is a designated space, where everyone is respectful of others and their individual needs.            

Location: Commodores Room               

In this area we ask all patrons attending the sensory zone to abide by the following:

  • Be mindful of loud and sudden noises
  • Know that all activities require parent/guardian supervision and
  • Know patrons of all ages are allowed to play and enjoy the activities offered

This space will be equipped with sensory focused activities including a colouring station, games, sensory equipment and more!

Noise cancelling headphones will be available for rent on-site by the entrance of the event and sensory zone. This space has a capacity of 50 patrons at one time and will be available on a first come, first served basis.

 

Winterfest – Family Day, February 17, 2025

Cartoon animals playing with a snowman

It’s fun. It’s free. It’s on Family Day. It’s Winterfest presented by TD Bank Group!

Celebrate the winter season with your family. Join us on February 17, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the McLean Community Centre (95 Magill Dr.) for winter themed activities, shows and fun for the whole family.

Parking is very limited onsite. Consider taking one of our free shuttles to and from the event. Please see below for the schedule of shuttles that will be offered. 

No pre-registration required. Nominal fees apply for food and beverages. Activities are subject to change without notice. ATM’s on site.

Stay tuned for more details about the 2025 Winterfest event. 

 Shuttle Information
 On-site parking is extremely limited. Take the shuttle from one of our two convenient locations:
  1. Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Rd, Ajax, ON L1Z 0L2)
  2. GO Parking off of O'Brien Court

First shuttle pick-up is 10:45 a.m. and the last shuttle will leave McLean Community Centre at 4:15 p.m. Shuttles will run every 20 minutes (approximately) and may vary due to unexpected circumstances, traffic and weather.

Accessible busses are available upon request (onsite at shuttle locations).

Please note that all locations are for parking purposes only. Entry to the buildings are not available and are closed on Family Day. 

Movies in the Park 

People watching a movie on an inflated screen outdoors

Enjoy a unique, outdoor, family cinema experience projected on a giant inflatable movie screen. Admission is free (registration not required) and movie goers are encouraged to bring their own snacks, a chair, blanket and bug spray! #AjaxMovieNight

Please stay tuned for more details about our 2025 events taking place on June 13 (Audley Recreation), July 18 (Ajax Community Centre) and August 15 (McLean Community Centre)!

Trailfest - June 22, 2025 – Audley Recreation Centre

Illustration of people on bikes on an outdoor trail

Ajax Trailfest offers 3 fun ways for the community to get out, get active and experience the beauty of Ajax’s extensive trail system.  Ride with the Mayor offers a 40-45 km ride throughout Ajax for more experienced riders, while Tour d’Ajax offers a 15-20 km ride for those with some experience and a 10 km ride more suitable for families and not-as-experienced single riders. There’s also guided trail hikes and strolls, as well as cycle repair clinics, giveaways, and community displays. 

Registration for Trailfest opens in the spring.

Please stay tuned for more details about the 2025 event!

Canada Day - July 1, 2025

A beaver and a moose wearing Canadian flags

This free admission event is a great way to celebrate our Nation’s birthday. Activities include children’s activities, games, inflatables, live entertainment, interactive experiences, cultural performances, crafts, food trucks, displays from local community organizations, and so much more for the entire family. The event ends with a fantastic fireworks display. Free shuttle bus service is provided.

Please stay tuned for more details about the 2025 event!

Summer in the Square - Presented by TD Bank Group

Animation of a crowd of people gathered at Pat Bayly Square

Pat Bayly Square (75 Bayly Street W.), Ajax’s downtown urban hub, will bring a vibrant energy to the community this summer with free family-friendly concerts, children’s performances and Zumba®.

Please stay tuned for details about our 2025 Summer in the Square events kicking off on July 8, 2025.

Presenting Sponsor: 

TD Bank

Zumba in the Square

Come celebrate the summer with FREE outdoor fitness! Get ready to sweat and smile while moving to the rhythms of Zumba® in the Square. All ages and levels welcomed, and no previous dance experience required.

Registration is free, but required. Stay tuned for more information for the 2025 season!

Spirit Walk - Friday, September 26, 2025

People listening to a spirit walk guide

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.

Registration for the Ajax Spirit Walk opens in the summer.

Please stay tuned for more details about the 2025 event!

Pumpkinville - Presented by TD Bank Group - October 18, 2025

Jack-o-lantern

Join us October 18, 2025 at the picturesque Greenwood Conservation Area (2290 Greenwood Rd.) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a variety of activities.

In addition to the live stage, we will also have children’s games and activities, interactive experiences, community displays and exhibitors, sensory zone, and our infamous haunted house! Don’t forget to trick-or-treat at the community display and exhibitor booths and pick up your free pumpkin at the Steve & Amanda’s NoFrills Pumpkin Patch – a Pumpkinville tradition! (all while supplies last)

Kids are encouraged to dress in costume!

Leave the driving to us - take the free Pumpkinville shuttle (see information below).

Nominal fees apply for food and beverages. Activities are subject to change without notice. ATM’s on site.

Stay tuned for stage announcements and food & beverage vendors. 


Presenting Sponsor

TD Bank

  

Supporting Sponsor 

Battlefield logo Steve & Amanda's No Frills  

 Shuttle Information

On-site parking is limited. Take the shuttle from 1 of 3 convenient locations:

GO Parking (off of O'Brien Court)

Ajax Town Hall (65 Harwood Ave. S.)

Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Rd. N.)

First shuttle pick-up is 10:45 a.m. at each location and the last shuttle will leave Greenwood Conservation Area at 5:15 p.m. Shuttles will run every 20 minutes (approximately) and may vary due to unexpected circumstances, traffic and weather. 

 Sensory Zone 
The Sensory Zone is a designated space where others and their individual needs are respected.                                   

We ask all Sensory Zone patrons to respect the following:

  • Be mindful of loud and sudden noises
  • Know that all activities require parent/guardian supervision and
  • Know patrons of all ages are allowed to play and enjoy the activities offered

This space will be equipped with sensory focused activities including a colouring station, inflatables and games, sensory equipment, a sheltered area, a changing station and a seating area.

Noise cancelling headphones will be available for rent(free) onsite. 

Mayor & Council Annual Holiday Toy & Food Drive November 18 - December 8, 2024

Come together to support the community this holiday season! From November 18 – December 8, residents, businesses and community groups are encouraged to participate in the annual Mayor & Council Toy & Food Drive. All donations will help support local Ajax charities and families in need during the holidays.

We are accepting donations from November 18 – December 8 at five TOA facilities and during the Ajax Santa Claus Parade (see drop-off locations and details below).

Benefitting Charities:

The Salvation Army Ajax

Herizon House

Durham Youth Services (Joanne’s House)

Community Development Council Durham (CDCD)

 Suggested Donations
  • Unopened, non-perishable food items, such as tuna and salmon, children's individually wrapped school snacks, pancake mix, hot chocolate, instant coffee, instant noodles, kraft dinner, meal kits, rice, oats, cereal, pasta, pasta sauce, pancake mix & syrup, canned beans, canned vegetables, soup, crackers, granola bars, peanut-free school snacks, peanut butter, flour and sugar.
  • New, unwrapped toys/items for pre-teens (ages 10-13) and teens (ages 14-17).
  • New items for young adults (ages 16-24).
  • Gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, grocery stores, cineplex, clothing stores, restaurants, etc.)
  • New clothing for children, pre-teens, teens, young adults and adults (including winter items such as coats, boots, hats, gloves etc.)
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Household items (linens, cutlery, cooking items, blankets, etc.)

Items not accepted:

Baby furniture/equipment

Large furniture

Used clothing

Used toys

Expired or opened food items

 Drop-off Locations & Hours

Ajax Community Centre (75 Centennial Road)

  • Monday - Friday 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday  7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Ajax Public Library - Main Branch (55 Harwood Avenue South)

  • Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ajax Town Hall (65 Harwood Avenue South)

  • Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Audley Recreation Centre (1955 Audley Road North)

  • Monday - Friday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

McLean Community Centre (95 Magill Drive)

  • Monday - Friday 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
 Toys for Tickets Campaign
Toy donations will only be accepted at Ajax Town Hall until Friday, December 6. Tickets must be eligible for payment.  

Only new toys and toys must be unwrapped and in its original packaging. Gift Cards will not be accepted. 


Drop-off Location & Times:

Ajax Town Hall | 65 Harwood Ave. S.
Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.


Guidelines

  • The toy’s receipt and the parking violation must be presented at the time of payment.
  • The value of the toy(s) must be equal to or more than the amount owing on the ticket (early payment if applicable). For example, if the ticket amount is $25.00, then the total value of the toy must be equal to or exceed $25.00 (including taxes).
  • Donations of more than one toy are accepted as long as the total cost is equal to or more then the ticket amount.

Santa's Spectacle of Lights - Town of Ajax Santa Claus Parade - November 22, 2025

Santa Claus and his reindeer

Santa is coming to Town on Saturday, November 22, 2025! From 6 – 7:30 p.m. Ajax residents and visitors are invited to participate in a family-friendly evening of fun and entertainment!  Join us immediately after the Parade at Ajax Town Hall & the Ajax Public Library - Main Branch for the Annual Tree Lighting and after parade Festivities. 

Looking to be a walking group / float? Applications open in August of 2025. 

2025 Route Information

Santa’s Spectacle of Lights parade will begin at the intersection of Bayly St. and Mackenzie Ave., proceeding east along Bayly St. and will continue north on Harwood Ave. S concluding at Ajax Town Hall (Harwood Ave. and Achillies Rd.).

Parking at Town Hall is limited and patrons are encouraged to park at the Ajax Plaza Harwood Shopping Centre or Baywood Centre. Please note all parking rules will be in effect, therefore all bylaws and rules should be adhered too. 

 2025 Road Closures 

Please be advised that the following roads will be closed for a portion of the day on Saturday, November 23 to accommodate Santa’s Spectacle of Lights Parade.

Bayly St. W. (Finley Ave. to Salem Rd.) from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Harwood Ave. S.  (Birch Cres. to Emperor St.) from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Mackenzie Ave. (Bayly Ave. to Clements Rd. W.) from 4:30 to 8 p.m.

Achilles Rd. (Harwood Ave. .S to Salem Rd.) from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Christmas in the Village - Winter 2025

Illustration of holly and ivy with a star in the centre

The Town of Ajax is taking over Christmas in the Village!

Join us in Pickering Village on Old Kingston Rd for a fun-filled day of activities, including Santa photo ops, trackless train rides, smore's and hot chocolate giveaways, a vendor marketplace, horse and wagon rides, and live entertainment!

Due to the nature of the event, we ask that you please keep your pets at home. Service animals are permitted but proper documentation may be requested. 

Supporting Sponsor 

 Steve & Amanda's No Frills

Get Involved

Get involved in the TOA community! We rely on a network of entertainers, vendors, exhibitors, sponsors and volunteers to make our festivals and events great! 

Become an Entertainer at our 2025 Festivals and Events - Apply Now! 

Now accepting entertainer applications for all 2025 Festivals and Events. Whether you are a band, solo artist or children's entertainer, we want to hear from you!

Apply Now!

Become a Vendor or Exhibitor at our 2025 Festival and Events - Apply Now! 

Now accepting vendor and exhibitor applications for all 2025 Festival and Events. Whether you are a food vendor, exhibitor, community group or not-for-profit we want to hear from you!

Apply Now! 

Become a Sponsor at our Festivals and Events! 
Become a sponsor of our upcoming Virtual and In-Person events. Please call 905-619-2529, ext. 7248 or email events@ajax.ca  for more information.
Volunteer at our Festivals and Events! 

Become a volunteer for one of our upcoming festivals or events. To learn more about our volunteer program visit our volunteer page.

Apply Now! 

Truth & Reconciliation

The Town recognizes that true reconciliation requires sustained space for truth and action based on recognition of rights, respect and partnership. An important step in rebuilding relationships with Indigenous communities is to reflect and learn more about Indigenous history as we move forward with acknowledgement and kindness as an inclusive community.  

 Check Out Upcoming Town of Ajax Corporate Festivals & Events

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