Port Hope events are among the best

File Photo.

By Cecilia Nasmith

For the fourth consecutive year, the Municipality of Port Hope announces that its flagship events – the Candlelight Festival and the Arts Festival – have made the Festivals and Events Ontario's Top 100 Festivals and Events list.

This distinction considers events that have community impact, originality, economic benefits and overall popularity.

“Being honoured again this year highlights the strength and vibrancy of our local events,” Mayor Olena Hankivsky commented in the announcement.

“It's a testament to the teamwork, imagination and dedication that continue to elevate Port Hope as a destination for memorable community experiences, and continues to make Port Hope festivals stand out.”

Submissions were made in the fall of 2025 for evaluation by an independent panel of judges. The selection process featured a diverse range of festivals and events from across Ontario, everything from local community celebrations to internationally renowned experiences.

Port Hope's two winning events will return for 2026 – the Arts Festival on Saturday, Aug. 8, and the Candlelight Walk (a kick-off to the beloved Candlelight Festival) on Friday, Nov. 27.

For more information on these and other events, check out the municipality's Community Events web page.