Following national recognition as Canada's Best Event for a Municipality, Summerfest on Main returns to downtown Newmarket from August 20 to 23, 2026, bringing four days of live entertainment, shopping, dining and family-friendly experiences to historic Main Street.
Main Street (from Water Street to Park Avenue) will be transformed into a fully licensed pedestrian zone featuring interactive experiences, family activities, patio dining, local shopping and entertainment around every corner.
“Summerfest on Main is one of the highlights of the year in Newmarket. Summerfest won the 2026 best event in Canada recognition and is sure to deliver again this year. This event is built on the idea that great experiences bring people together and build a strong community,” says Mayor John Taylor. “We look forward to showcasing Newmarket and welcoming visitors from near and far to experience firsthand the energetic buzz and vibrancy that Newmarket has to offer.”
Choose Local
Explore the unique shops, cozy cafes, and one-of-a-kind services that make Main Street a favourite place to visit, dine, shop, connect and experience. Choose Local and embrace the heart of our community. Shop local throughout the weekend to earn Choose Local gift cards (while supplies last) and a chance to win a grand prize. Save your receipts and visit the Choose Local booth to enter.
Entertainment
Summerfest on Main will feature a diverse lineup of live music, entertainment and activities throughout the four-day festival.
- Dance to your own beat during the silent discos on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
- Start your Saturday morning at the Coffee Party hosted by Chickadee Café.
- Enjoy live music and entertainment for the whole family including Huntrix & The Saja Boys, Zoe Stardust’s Unforgettable Bubble Show, The 99s, The Dreamboats, and so much more.
- Play your way through the Family Game Zone sponsored by Farm Boy.
nmrkt. at Summerfest on Main
Residents and visitors are invited to celebrate community pride through a unique interactive experience with nmrkt. – Newmarket’s community brand. Guests can snap a photo at the iconic nmrkt. sign, share what makes Newmarket one of one on the Glow Wall, and record a personal story or message in the video booth. Visitors can also pick up free nmrkt.-branded merchandise, including products created in partnership with local businesses and makers (while supplies last).
Food and beverage
Indulge in Main Street’s eclectic restaurant scene or grab a drink at the outdoor bars and take it with you as you explore the event. As a fully licensed event, guests will be permitted to enjoy alcohol purchased along Main Street outdoors throughout the event area.
Dates and times
- Thursday, August 20 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Friday, August 21 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Saturday, August 22 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Sunday, August 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Road closures and parking
Main Street from Water Street to Park Avenue will be closed from 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19 until 11 p.m. on Sunday, August 23. Parking is available at Riverwalk Commons and surrounding areas as per parking by-laws.
The Town is working closely with the Main Street District Business Improvement Area (BIA), and with their support, Summerfest on Main is sure to be the highlight of summer, showcasing local talent and businesses.
For full details and schedules, visit Newmarket.ca/SummerfestOnMain.
Background
Newmarket’s historic Main Street attracts over a quarter of a million visitors each year and sets the scene for Summerfest on Main. Introduced in 2025, the inaugural event was awarded the Best Event for a City or Municipality by Canadian Event Awards earlier this year. In a highly competitive field, judged by a diverse panel of event professionals from across North America, entries reflected the remarkable creativity, resilience, and innovation that continue to shape the event industry.
About Newmarket
Newmarket, Ontario is a connected community where boldness creates belonging. We step up for each other and what we believe in, grounded in our people and our values. From creating our own Central Park-inspired destination, Mulock Park (opening soon!) to our award-winning Main Street – voted the best in Canada – Newmarket is a place where culture, business and community thrive. We lead with care – for each other, our environment and the passion we put into everything we do. Our community celebrates difference and puts people first, earning recognition as one of Canada’s most liveable places. In Newmarket, compassion meets courage, originality is celebrated and belonging is the foundation of everything we do. Find out more at Newmarket.ca.