Bayfest is returning to Port Rowan this weekend with a full lineup of family activities, contests, live entertainment and community events.
The festivities run from Friday, September 4 through Sunday, September 6, with events taking place throughout downtown Port Rowan and surrounding areas.
Friday’s schedule begins with a Washer Toss Tournament from 2 to 4 p.m. at Port Rowan Community Church. New this year are opening ceremonies from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Birds Canada, featuring a wine and cheese reception and an opportunity to meet special guests while discussing the history and stories of Bayfest and Tomato Fests gone by.
The evening continues with street chalking on Bay Street, a new pizza-eating contest and concert at 6 p.m., a patio and beer garden, a fish and chip dinner at the Port Rowan Legion, and entertainment from Andy the Balloon Guy. A new Silver Screen Costume Contest will also take place at 8 p.m., before Family Movie Night gets underway at 8:30 on Bay Street.
Saturday brings a full day of activities, including the annual dog show, pickleball, the Canadian Long Drive Championship, Baby Contest, Build-A-Boat by the Bay, Frog Toss, inflatables, Wacky Hair Contest and Soap Box Derby.
There are also several new activities Saturday, including Karma Yoga, Dance Fit and Hybrid AMP Fit, Story Time, a Hot Wing Contest and multiple Tug-of-War Tournament matches. Music will be featured in Harbourview Park throughout the afternoon, followed by a street dance and the Campfire Concert Series featuring Kim Mitchell.
Sunday starts early with the Kids Fishing Derby, followed by a Legion brunch, car show, casting competition and other activities.
New Sunday events include Chill Yoga, additional Tug-of-War matches, a Donut Eating Contest, a Redneck Rodeo following the parade, Line Dancing, an Apple Stacking Contest, Cornhole Play and a Bubble Blowing Contest.
The Bayfest Parade takes place Sunday at 2 p.m., with fireworks scheduled for approximately 9 p.m. to wrap up the weekend.
