Things to do this weekend in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa: Aug. 30 to Sept. 2

Wave goodbye to summer with some last-minute fun! If you’re looking to make the most of the final days of the season, here are some exciting events happening in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa this weekend:

August 30

Pickering:

Summer Concert Series

A weekly summer evening of live music is happening at Rick Johnson Memorial Park. This event is part of a series that features a variety of musical performances, providing entertainment for all ages. Fiddlestix is performing this week, bringing their energetic blend of Celtic, country and folk.

Where: 2631 P Sapphire Dr.
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Whitby:

Movies in the Park

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and popcorn for an evening under the stars at Whitby Civic Park. Starting at dusk, movies will be shown on a large outdoor screen with concert-quality sound behind Town Hall.

Movie: Wish
Where: 30 Bassett Blvd.
Time: 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Summer Mobile Food Market

Community Care Durham is hosting a Summer Mobile Food Market at 55+ Recreation Centre. The market will offer fruits and vegetables from local growers at reasonable prices. This initiative aims to provide access to fresh produce while supporting local agriculture.

Where: 801 Brock St. S.
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.

August 31

Pickering:

International Day for People of African Descent BBQ

The Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce hosts this annual Community BBQ in partnership with local organizations. Visitors will enjoy a day of fun with DJ One Sixx spinning in the park, a free BBQ featuring hamburgers, hotdogs, food trucks, and more. There will be a Ujamaa Vendor Market with over 20 vendors. Guests can also participate in games, inflatables, and a domino tournament and take part in a paint workshop.

Where: 1 The Esplanade
Time: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Ajax:

The Durham Region Summer Shoppers Market

Shop from a wide selection of products from local businesses in the city. The event is family-friendly with fun and games for all ages, prize giveaways, an ice cream truck and a bouncy castle. Savour delicious food, tasty drinks and snacks while enjoying live entertainment. Admission is free, including free parking.

Where: 19 Notion Rd.
Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Drums and Flats 

Head to the patio at Drums N Flats for a night of live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Enjoy a performance by 5 Wheel Drive, adding great tunes to the mix for a perfect evening outdoors.

Where: 639 Kingston Rd. W.
Time: 7:30 p.m.

Whitby:

Durham Summer Fest 2024 —Grant Boyer

Catch Canadian rock artist Grant Boyer live in concert at Iroquois Park Sports Centre! Known for his debut single “Alarm Bells,” which reached #37 on Canada’s Active Rock radio chart, Boyer brings his edgy rock sound with a dash of humour to the stage. Having shared the stage with bands like April Wine, Big Wreck, and The Sheepdogs and toured with members of the Trailer Park Boys, his performance promises a high-energy experience.

Where: 500 Victoria St. W.
Time: 5 p.m.

Oshawa:

Summer Madness Market

The Summer Pop-Up Markets offer a vibrant opportunity to support the local community by shopping for unique handmade items. These markets have a diverse range of vendors selling everything from artisanal crafts to one-of-a-kind treasures.

Where: 555 Simcoe St. S.
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

September 1

Oshawa:

Free Friends Concert

Catch the pop punk trio Free Friends live, featuring husband and wife Ben and Lauren DeHan along with drummer Gil Perez. Known for their unique sound blending elements of blink-182 and Neck Deep with cello, their music combines dual vocals and emotionally charged lyrics reminiscent of Taking Back Sunday, with minimalist verses and poignant leads. Their latest release, “Last Flight,” is a high-energy emo/pop-punk anthem that tackles deep themes with catchy melodies and synth-pop vibes.

Where: 44 Bond St. E.
Time: 7 p.m.

September 2

Oshawa:

Food Truck Corral

This venue is perfect for those eager to sample a wide range of cuisines from local vendors. With offerings that include street meat, tacos, ice cream, and chicken and waffles, there are options to satisfy every craving.

Where: 2867 Bridle Rd. N.
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Labour Day 2024

Celebrate Oshawa’s 100th anniversary this Labour Day and honour the incredible contributions of the workers who have shaped the city over the past century. Join the community for a day of free food, fun activities, and live music by Postman Dan with special guest B.A. Johnston. With various activities for all ages, this event offers a great opportunity to come together, relax, and appreciate the city’s rich history and hard-working spirit.

Where: 110 Simcoe St. S.
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.