Celebrating Arts, Culture, & Heritage... Under the Lights! Arts & Culture Under the Lights Logo

Friday, September 19, 2025
Market Lot & Baggage Building Arts Centre, Marina Park, Thunder Bay
Starts at 6:00 PM | Drone Light Show at 9:30 PM

Kick off Ontario Culture Days in Thunder Bay with Arts & Culture Under the Lights—a free, family-friendly celebration of creativity, culture, and community at Marina Park. Experience an unforgettable evening filled with performances, markets, art, and cuisine, all set against the glow of beautiful lights and capped off with a dazzling drone show finale.

Event Highlights

  • Dance & Cultural Performances – Enjoy captivating performances that showcase the diverse heritage of Thunder Bay.

  • Literary Stage – Be inspired by readings from local authors and storytellers.

  • Vendor & Artisan Market – Shop unique handmade goods, art, and crafts from local makers.

  • Hands-On Art Demonstrations – Try your hand at creative activities led by local artists.

  • Light Art Installations – Wander through glowing art displays that transform Marina Park after dark.

  • Global Cuisine – Taste flavours from around the world with local food vendors.

  • Art of the Mushroom – Explore culinary and creative perspectives on this fascinating ingredient.

  • Cultural Programming – Engage with interactive displays celebrating regional diversity.

  • Drone Light Show – At 9:30 PM, look to the sky as 400 drones illuminate the night with breathtaking stories and imagery! In partnership with the Thunder Bay International Airports Authority.

Accessible Parking: Please call 807-625-3836 to arrange.
Free Shuttle Service: Details coming soon.

FREE ADMISSION – Everyone Welcome! 


Drone Light Show - Know Before You Go
 What is a drone light show?
A drone light show is an aerial display that uses a fleet of drones with LED lights to create patters, shapes, and animations in the sky. 
 What can I expect?

The drone light show will begin around 9:30 PM. Using 400 drones, the show tells a visual story and highlights iconic images of Thunder Bay. The performance will last approximately 18 minutes.

 Can I bring my own drone?
 No — this is a restricted airspace, and personal drones are not permitted.
 What happens if it is raining?
 All updates will be posted to our City of Thunder Bay Culture & Events Facebook page. 
Where can I park?

Public parking will be available in Marina Park in the Market Parking Lot in front of the Delta. Additionally, if you take the first exit on at the roundabout from Pearl Street, the Public Boat Launch and the front half of the lot on the right hand side will be available for public parking. 

 

Take advantage of the FREE SHUTTLE! More details to come soon. 

 

For accessible parking, please call 807-625-3836. 


Previous Years 

2024

Arts & Culture Under the Lights: Culture Days Launch Event

Thank you for joining us on Friday, September 20 at Marina Park as Ontario Culture Days launched in Thunder Bay.

This free event featured an evening of dance and musical performances, artisans, displays, and activities that celebrated the rich culture of our city!

Arts & Culture Under the Lights Event Recap

  • Cultural Performance Stage                                                         
  • Artist Demonstrations 
  • Food Vendors 
  • Community Expo 
  • Street Level Performances 
  • Artisan Market 
  • Literary Stage hosted by Thunder Bay Public Library
  • The Art of the Mushroom by CAHEP 
2023

Arts & Culture Under the Lights (City of Thunder Bay)
September 22, 2023 from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Baggage Building Arts Centre

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