The City of Thunder Bay is inviting artists and artisans to apply to participate in the Recreation & Culture Division's annual events series. All events are free to the public and collectively draw tens of thousands of attendees. Artist opportunities include over 12 event dates.
Applications may also be shared with other areas within the City of Thunder Bay who may be looking to book artists/artisans.
Recreation & Culture events include, but are not limited to:
- SnowDay on the Waterfront - February 17
- Quest: Tech & Gaming - May 9 & 10
- Kite Festival - June 8
- Canada Day - July 1
- Teddy Bears Picnic - July 8
- Live on the Waterfront - July 16/23/30 August 6/13/20/27/28
- Arts & Culture Under the Lights - September 19
- Culture Days - September 19 - October 12
Artists and artisans interested in participating in events are required to provide the following items in order to be considered:
- This "Call for Artists & Artisans" form, completely and accurately filled in.
- An internet link to the Artist's web page or social media site, if applicable, for promotional purposes.
- Images of all items that will be sold must be submitted along with application through a digital file or link. Only works handmade by the applicant are allowed. No commercially or mass produced items will be accepted. This does not exclude local authors, musicians, or artists/photographers from submitting published books, CDs/records, or prints of their original artwork as applicable.
- Maintain a minimum of $5, 000, 000 General Liability and Automobile Liability insurance. Proof of insurance listing the Corporation of the City of Thunder Bay as additional insured for the purpose of your participation in the event must be provided on a City of Thunder Bay Certificate of Insurance Form.*
*Additional items may be required.
Please Note:
- Incomplete and/or late applications may not be considered
- While participating, artists and artisans are to conduct themselves in a professional manner that is suitable for a family venue.
- The City Events Staff will determine your placement on each event site and date. Placement is not guaranteed to be consistent from year to year or event to event. Vendor decisions made by City Events Staff are final.
- The City reserves the right to seek additional artists and artisans outside of this process.
- The City has the sole discretion to accept or reject applications (i.e., booths or activities promoting political/religious groups or values and activities/products not appropriate for a family audience will not be allowed).
- Fundraising activities that do not include an event related product or service, i.e. raffles, draws, or ticket sales for other events and activities, will not be accepted.
2025 Fees*:
- Canada Day - $50.00 + hst
- All other events - $40.00 + hst
these fees are subject to change
*Commit to 6+ events and receive a 25% discount
*New artisans receive a 25% discount
All questions and inquiries regarding this or any other call can be directed to culture@thunderbay.ca
