Canadian artists are gearing up for Culture Days, a nationwide celebration that will run from September 20 to October 13. The annual festival invites creators across the country to engage with the public through free, participatory events. Last year’s celebration attracted over 5 million participants, representing 14% of Canada’s population.
Culture Days transforms Canada into a creative playground where millions discover art in their own communities.
In St. Catharines and beyond, artists can host workshops, demonstrations, or behind-the-scenes tours. These opportunities allow them to connect with diverse audiences while showcasing their creative processes. Events happen in more than 350 communities across Canada, from big cities to small towns.
“We want to make culture accessible to everyone,” says a Culture Days representative. “That’s why we offer programming in over 40 languages and collaborate with Indigenous communities, municipalities, and cultural organizations.”
To participate, artists must register through the Culture Days website. All events must be free, participatory, and open to the public. Registration deadlines typically fall in the summer months for the September festival. The organization provides promotional support, including event listings and digital marketing tools.
Artists who join can expect to reach new audiences. The 2024 festival featured more than 4,000 events delivered by 1,500+ organizers nationwide. Activities target families, youth, and underrepresented communities to expand cultural access. This aligns with Culture Days’ core objective to eliminate barriers to arts and culture participation across the country.
Support is available for participating artists. As a registered charity, Culture Days offers year-round resources. Some provincial task forces provide regional grants or honorariums. Free marketing materials, including posters and digital assets, help artists promote their events.
The festival aims to strengthen community bonds through shared creative experiences. It celebrates Canada’s multicultural identity and supports Indigenous-led programming to honor First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures.
Artists who participate often gain increased public recognition and valuable networking opportunities. The experience can help build connections with local arts councils, galleries, and municipal cultural departments.
With St. Catharines’ rich cultural landscape, local artists are encouraged to join this nationwide movement celebrating creativity and community.
Art programs create pathways for local talent to gain exposure and strengthen professional connections. Cultural engagement remains a vital part of St. Catharines’ identity and growth. Discover more ways creativity is being celebrated throughout the region on Marketplace Niagara.
