One of Lakefield’s favourite summer traditions is entering an exciting new chapter.
On Saturday August 8, 2026 the annual Lakefield sidewalk sale returns with a fresh identity as SolarFest Lakefield; an expanded community celebration presented jointly by the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, together with the merchants and community organizations of Lakefield and Selwyn Township.
Taking place from 9:00am to 3:00pm, SolarFest will transform downtown Lakefield into a vibrant pedestrian festival, with Queen Street closed from Bridge Street to Reid Street to make way for shopping, live entertainment, family activities, local food, artisans and community experiences.
Guided by the theme “Family Fun Under One Sun,” SolarFest builds on the familiar tradition of the Sidewalk Sale while introducing exciting new attractions designed to create a full-day destination for residents and visitors alike.
Shop, Discover & Support Local
Local merchants will bring businesses outdoors with sidewalk sales, exclusive promotions, demonstrations and interactive activities. Visitors will be invited to discover everything Lakefield has to offer. A new Artisan Market will showcase talented local makers, offering handcrafted goods and unique creations that celebrate the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of our region.
Family Fun for Everyone
Families can explore the Children & Family Village in Cenotaph Park. Featuring pony rides, games, crafts, interactive activities and entertainment for children of all ages. Returning as part of this year’s celebration is the beloved Lakefield Fairy Festival, complete with fairy-themed storytelling, imaginative crafts, whimsical activities, and a costume contest that encourages participants to embrace a little magic.
Live Entertainment and Local Flavour
Music will fill the downtown core throughout the day as local performers take to the Main Stage, creating an energetic festival atmosphere. In addition, the festival will offer an array of local food vendors serving a variety of cuisines. Visitors are also invited to enjoy a free community barbeque hosted by Lakefield IDA Pharmacy and the Selwyn Fire Department.
Community Spirit & Giving Back
SolarFest also places a strong emphasis on community giving. Festival attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation in support of the Lakefield Community Food Bank. Businesses and community organizations throughout the village will also host contests, activities and giveaways for visitors to engage with local organizations while enjoying the festival.
The Peterborough & the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the Village of Lakefield, Selwyn Township, and the local merchants and community in presenting this year’s SolarFest.
Supporting our members and strengthening our business community is at the heart of everything we do, and events like SolarFest showcase the incredible businesses, organizations, and people that make our region so special.
Susan Dunkley, Chair of the Board of the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, shared, “One of the Chamber’s greatest strengths is our ability to bring people together and celebrate the communities that make our region thrive. SolarFest is a wonderful example of local businesses, volunteers, and community leaders working together to create an event that supports our local economy while bringing families and friends together for a day of fun. We are proud to stand alongside our partners in Lakefield and Selwyn Township and encourage everyone to come out, shop local, and experience everything this vibrant community has to offer.”
We invite everyone to come out, explore all that Lakefield has to offer, and enjoy a fun-filled day of shopping, entertainment, great food, and community spirit. We look forward to celebrating with you at SolarFest!”
More than a shopping event, SolarFest is a celebration of community. Through the collaboration of local businesses, volunteers, organizations and community partners, the festival has been thoughtfully reimagined to showcase the very best of Lakefield while creating new traditions for families to enjoy together.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
When: Saturday August 8th, 2026
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Where: Queen St., Lakefield ON (Street closure between Bridge St. & Reid St.)
● Sidewalk Sales & Promotions
● Artisan Market
● Children & Family Village
● Lakefield Fairy Festiva
● Live Music & Entertainment
● Local Food Vendors
● Community BBQ
● Contests & Giveaways
● Supporting the Lakefield Community Food Bank
