Category Archives: Arts and culture

Ring in the holidays with A Very Charlie Brown Concert

December 5, 2024

A jazz trio, a children’s choir, and the nostalgia of Charlie Brown—this combo delivers holiday cheer   GUELPH, ON December 5, 2024 – Celebrate Christmas with joyful nostalgia—and Charlie Brown! River Run Centre is delighted to bring A Very Charlie Brown Concert back to the Main Stage. The show takes place on Sunday, December 22 with performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Part of Miijidaa Music Series, this show is made possible thanks to the generous support of Season Sponsor Richardson Wealth, Series Sponsor Miijidaa Café + Bistro, and SOCAN Foundation.   This lively musical performance features a jazz trio led by drummer and percussionist Adam Bowman, with Tyler Wagler on bass and Duncan Wilson on keys. The trio is accompanied by The Kingsbury… Continue reading Ring in the holidays with A Very Charlie Brown Concert


Part time believers, full time legends

December 3, 2024

Two-time JUNO winners The Strumbellas return to the stage GUELPH, ON December 3, 2024 – Canadian rockers return to Guelph for a soulful, dance-in-your-seat show as part of Magic Music Now. Catch The Strumbellas performing a selection of past favourites and new hits on Sunday, December 15 at 7 p.m. on River Run Centre’s Main Stage. Presented by Series and Media Sponsor Magic 106.1 and Season Sponsor Richardson Wealth, this show is sure to be a fun time. The Strumbellas are known and respected for their folky, alternative, country-rock sound with deeply profound lyrics. The Strumbellas released Part Time Believer earlier this year. It was their first album with new frontman Jimmy Chauveau, who replaced their original lead singer, Simon Ward. The rest of the… Continue reading Part time believers, full time legends


Holiday hours for City of Guelph facilities and services

December 2, 2024

Holiday hours for City of Guelph facilities and programs. Continue reading Holiday hours for City of Guelph facilities and services


A River Run Tradition: Boreal is back!

November 28, 2024

Boreal’s Songs for a Snowy Season returns to welcome winter with healing harmonies and heartfelt storytelling GUELPH, ON November 28, 2024 — River Run Centre is delighted to have Boreal as a seasonal staple, returning this winter for an evening of beautiful (and fun) music. The three women tour as a trio twice a year—one of those tours being Boreal’s Songs for a Snowy Season—part of the Showcase Series on Saturday, December 14 at 7 p.m. What a perfect way to spend your wintry Saturday night! Boreal is the awesome collaboration between three award-winning musicians, each with their own colourful career. Tannis Slimmon, Katherine Wheatley, and Angie Nussey have independently made significant marks on the Canadian folk music scene for decades. “Not sure there’s another… Continue reading A River Run Tradition: Boreal is back!


Spend Christmas with family—The Ennis Family, that Is

November 26, 2024

The Ennis Sisters captivate audiences with beautiful harmonies and powerful storytelling   GUELPH, ON November 26, 2024 — Join these JUNO and SOCAN Award-winning sisters for a memorable night of folklore, song, and dance. Christmas with The Ennis Sisters takes River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, December 6 at 8 p.m. Presented by Series Sponsors Sleeman Breweries and Spring Mill Distillery and Season Sponsor Richardson Wealth, these fabulous women will fill Guelph with warmth, joy, and some Celtic spirit.   Proudly hailing from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, the sisters are Maureen, Karen and Teresa. They use unique Indigenous instruments in their music, incorporating the flute, tin whistle, and bodhrán—a native Celtic drum. The sisters also play more traditional instruments, like guitar and tambourine,… Continue reading Spend Christmas with family—The Ennis Family, that Is


The Next Generation Leahy Christmas—Song and dance for the whole family

November 19, 2024

These skilled siblings bring youthful energy and joy through music this holiday season GUELPH, ON November 19, 2024 — The Leahys are back, and they’re not babies anymore! The Next Generation Leahy has played River Run Centre several times before, including in 2016, 2017, and 2019. Since then, they have continued to develop their dynamic live performance and now return show as part of the Showcase Series. They take the Main Stage for The Next Generation Leahy Christmas on Friday, December 13 at 7:30 p.m. “The Leahy family are outstanding performers! They put on such a fun, high-energy show and I’m excited to welcome them back. As they grow up and continue honing their craft, their musicianship improves­—and they were incredible five years ago!” laughs… Continue reading The Next Generation Leahy Christmas—Song and dance for the whole family


Canadian legends take us back to the 80s

November 7, 2024

Glass Tiger is back to revisit their big hits and deep cuts—and the show is selling out!   GUELPH, ON November 7, 2024 — Get your tickets fast—these tigers know how to sell out a show. Glass Tiger – This Island Earth comes to River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, November 29 at 8 p.m. This concert is part of the Sleeman-Spring Mill Music Series, which showcases some of Canada’s greatest hitmakers and internationally touring bands. Glass Tiger is one of Canada’s most iconic and enduring bands, still rocking after four decades together. Their 1986 debut album, The Thin Red Line, features two of their biggest singles, “Someday” and the iconic hit “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)”, both of which reached Top 10… Continue reading Canadian legends take us back to the 80s


Husband and wife duo deliver old school charm with a twangy twist

November 5, 2024

Brooks & Bowskill have the perfect mix of talent and chemistry. GUELPH, ON November 5, 2024 — This genre-blending country folk-rock is a delightful treat and a beautiful reflection of true love! Brooks & Bowskill are a married couple touring for their newest album, Blissful State of Mind. They play River Run Centre’s Studio Theatre on Saturday, November 30 at 8 p.m. This show is part of Borealis Music Series, sponsored by Borealis Grille & Bar, featuring a lineup of indie singers, songwriters, and storytellers in the intimate Studio Theatre. The series is also supported by Season Sponsor Richardson Wealth and in part by Ontario Arts Council and the Government of Ontario. Brooks & Bowskill’s sound is a mix of folk rock and country, original… Continue reading Husband and wife duo deliver old school charm with a twangy twist


Tchaikovsky for toddlers—This season’s first Kinderconcert is family favourite, The Nutcracker

October 24, 2024

Classical music designed for teeny toddlers, and their parents too   GUELPH, ON October 24, 2024 — Music is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, and it starts at a young age at Park Eatery Kinderconcerts at River Run Centre. This wonderful series is curated to expose children five years and younger to the magic of music and instruments. The Nutcracker is the first of three Kinderconcerts in River Run’s Studio Theatre, with 30-minute performances taking place Saturday, November 16 at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Kinderconcerts are performed by talented members of Guelph Symphony Orchestra (GSO). These highly accomplished musicians delight in storytelling and introducing young minds to music. They bring the symphony to life through interactive performances, with audience participation highly… Continue reading Tchaikovsky for toddlers—This season’s first Kinderconcert is family favourite, The Nutcracker


FORZA—A musical force to be reckoned with

October 22, 2024

Talented trio and special guests offer a night of jazzy-bluesy-funky-rock-fusion jams GUELPH, ON October 22, 2024 – River Run Centre’s 2024/25 LOTS ON Season is thrilled to include FORZA featuring Jason Raso and Special Guests in the Studio Theatre as part of Borealis Music Series. Thank you to Borealis Grille & Bar for supporting this series, which brings a broad mix of indie music to the Studio Theatre. FORZA takes the stage on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 8 p.m. It will surely be an evening to remember—and dance to!— with their signature fusion of classic rock, jazz, blues, and funk. FORZA is led by Jason Raso, a Hartke Canadian Artist Search Winner (2010) and acclaimed master bassist. Since his debut 2001 record, The Bassman… Continue reading FORZA—A musical force to be reckoned with


City of Guelph seeking organization interested in hosting Canada Day event

October 21, 2024

The City of Guelph is looking for a community organization interested in taking on the planning, coordination and execution of an annual Canada Day event, beginning in 2025. Expressions of interest are being accepted until November 14, 2024. Continue reading City of Guelph seeking organization interested in hosting Canada Day event


A magical mix of history, storytelling, and grand illusion

October 17, 2024

Outerbridge Magic – Mysteries of the Keyhole House brings charming magic show to Guelph for audiences of all ages GUELPH, ON October 17, 2024 – It is not always easy to find fun for the whole family—which is exactly what this show offers. Outerbridge Magic – Mysteries of the Keyhole House is truly a show to be enjoyed by everyone. Part of River Run’s Showcase Series in the LOTS ON Season sponsored by Richardson Wealth and the Department of Canadian Heritage, this spooky, spoofy show is intriguing, impressive, and entertaining for all. Ted and Marion Outerbridge are a married duo with a treasure trove of spellbinding stories. Having purchased a heritage home in Smiths Falls, Ontario, they began restoring the home and documenting their mysterious… Continue reading A magical mix of history, storytelling, and grand illusion


Unveiling of photographic mural brings contemporary Indigenous perspective to the river’s edge

October 15, 2024

All are invited to attend and celebrate the unveiling of an art installation beside the Speed River in John Galt Park, at the site of the former Trans Canada Trail kiosk, on October 18 at 5:30 p.m.  Continue reading Unveiling of photographic mural brings contemporary Indigenous perspective to the river’s edge


Maria Bamford shows there’s lightness to be found in life’s dark corners

October 15, 2024

Hilariously self-deprecating comedian takes Guelph—this one’s selling fast! GUELPH, ON October 15, 2024 – Treat yourself to a unique comedy experience when Maria Bamford takes the Main Stage at River Run Centre on Sunday, November 3 at 7 p.m. This show is the first of four in the GuelphToday Comedy Series, which brings outstanding international comedy to the stage.   Maria Bamford is a one-of-a-kind comedian, actress, voiceover artist, and writer, known for her varied work in shows including Arrested Development, Big Mouth, Lady Dynamite, and many, many more. Her kooky brand of comedy is laugh-out-loud funny, deeply personal, and playfully thought-provoking.   In 2023, Maria Bamford released her book Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult, aptly subtitled: A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest… Continue reading Maria Bamford shows there’s lightness to be found in life’s dark corners


The Legendary Downchild Blues Band is back for one last time!

October 10, 2024

Beloved Canadian icons revisit Guelph on their final tour. GUELPH, ON October 10, 2024 — The boys are back in town—the boys being The Legendary Downchild Blues Band, of course. This time, sadly, will be their last. The Legendary Downchild Blues Band — FAREWELL TOUR with Special Guest Jeff Rogers is coming to River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Tuesday, October 22 at 7:30 p.m. Come celebrate the legendary career of the band that inspired The Blues Brothers. The original blues brothers—Donnie “Mr. Downchild” Walsh and Richard “Hock” Walsh—formed Downchild in Toronto in 1969. Dan Aykroyd credits the band for inspiring The Blues Brothers, the comedic act (band-turned-film) he created with fellow comedy legend, John Belushi. The real Legendary Downchild Blues Band has been playing… Continue reading The Legendary Downchild Blues Band is back for one last time!


World After Dark: A unique dance performance on the Main Stage

September 26, 2024

An electric, enigmatic, epic experience in the form of a dance show.   GUELPH, ON September 26, 2024 – River Run Centre is excited to present World After Dark in its 2024/25 LOTS ON Season lineup. The show takes River Run’s Main Stage on Friday, October 18 at 8 p.m.   This exciting performance is a co-presentation with Guelph Dance and is part of Movement: The Dance Series, River Run’s first official dance series.   World After Dark explores what happens when nightfall comes and the world transforms into something very different than by day. It explores the idea of night in both a literal and metaphorical sense—it answers the question: what does night feel like?   Show creator Shannon Litzenberger has imagined a world… Continue reading World After Dark: A unique dance performance on the Main Stage


Join us for an open house at the renovated Riverside Park Concert Shell

September 25, 2024

The Riverside Park Concert Shell has recently been renovated and is looking better than ever. Drop in on October 3, between 3 and 5 p.m. Continue reading Join us for an open house at the renovated Riverside Park Concert Shell


Alan Doyle announces new tour coming to River Run

September 24, 2024

Canada’s favourite folk rocker brings new music and East Coast feel GUELPH, ON September 24, 2024 – One of Canada’s finest folk-rock frontmen brings exciting new music to Guelph’s River Run Centre this spring. On Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 8 p.m., Alan Doyle takes the Main Stage for an incredible night of beloved hits and new music. Most well-known as frontman and one of the founders of the chart-topping, award-winning band Great Big Sea, Alan Doyle is also an actor, producer, and best-selling author. With five solo albums under his belt—including the JUNO-nominated Back to the Harbour (2021)—he has been touring internationally for the last decade. A Newfoundlander born and raised in Petty Harbour, his warm energy is infectious and his performances quickly have… Continue reading Alan Doyle announces new tour coming to River Run


River Run Centre kicks off LOTS ON Season – something for everyone

September 19, 2024

2024-25 lineup features dance, comedy, music, magic, and more Continue reading River Run Centre kicks off LOTS ON Season – something for everyone


The annual Culture Days Festival is around the corner!

September 16, 2024

The fifteenth annual Culture Days celebration is upon us, with free arts and culture events throughout Guelph between September 20 and October 13. Continue reading The annual Culture Days Festival is around the corner!


Notice of intention to designate: 106 Carden Street

September 12, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 106 Carden Street as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The current legal description of the subject real property is Lots 2 & 3, Plan 8; Part Lots 1 & 4, Plan 8, Parts 24 & 25, 61R11523; Guelph. Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets seven of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by Ontario Regulation 569/22.… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 106 Carden Street


Culture Days festival sweeps across the country – touching down in Royal City

September 5, 2024

City of Guelph is Festival Hub, including pay-what-you-can performance at River Run Centre     GUELPH, ON September 5, 2024 – The upcoming Culture Days Festival is an annual, cross-Canada celebration of free arts and cultural events. Guelph, long heralded as a supportive arts community, has for generations attracted artists of all mediums to work and create here. The city is also proudly home to several renowned festivals featuring outstanding talent in music, dance, theatre, and more. Now, with Culture Days on the horizon, Guelph proudly boasts its title as one of the Festival Hubs, with several free, public events for all ages to enjoy.     As one of Guelph’s pivotal arts institutions, River Run Centre is pleased to host a culturally and historically… Continue reading Culture Days festival sweeps across the country – touching down in Royal City


Notice of intention to designate: 220 Gordon Street

July 11, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 220 Gordon St as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the property is Lots 1 and 2 of Benjamin Harrison’s unregistered survey. Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets five of the nine prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by 569/22. The heritage attributes of 220 Gordon Street display: design/physical, historical/associative, and contextual value. Design/physical… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 220 Gordon Street


Notice of intention to designate: 28 Norfolk Street

July 11, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate the building known as Saint Agnes School at 28 Norfolk Street as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject property is BLOCK OF LAND BOUNDED BY NORFOLK, NORTHUMBERLAND, DUBLIN & CORK STREETS, PLAN 8 SAVE AND EXCEPT CS27965 & CS64284, CITY OF GUELPH Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets seven of the nine prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 28 Norfolk Street


Notice of intention to designate: 12 Eramosa Road

July 11, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 12 Eramosa Road as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject real property is PLAN 99 PT LOT 7 PT LOT 8. The real property includes the following addresses: 12, 14 and 16 Eramosa Road as well as 157 and 161 Arthur Street North. Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets six of the nine prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest,… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 12 Eramosa Road


Notice of intention to designate: 14 Neeve Street

June 13, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 14 Neeve Street as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject property is The legal description of the property is 712850047 –PT LOTS 3 & 4, PLAN 33, *PT 2 61R4475; LOT 4, PLAN 269; LANE, PL 269, AS IN ROS587105; City of GUELPH Statement of Significance The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets five of the nine prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 14 Neeve Street


Notice of intention to designate: 100 Queen Street

June 13, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 100 Queen Street as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject property is The legal description of the property is Lot 98, Plan 243; City of Guelph. Statement of Significance The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets five of the nine prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by Ontario Regulation 569/22. The heritage attributes of 100 Queen Street display: design/physical, historical/associative,… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 100 Queen Street


Notice of intention to designate: 167 Suffolk Street West

June 13, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 167 Suffolk Street West as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets four of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by Ontario Regulation 569/22. The heritage attributes of 167 Suffolk Street West display: design or physical, historical or associative, and contextual value. Design/Physical Value 167 Suffolk Street West meets Criterion 1 having… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 167 Suffolk Street West


Notice of intention to designate: 211 Silvercreek Parkway South

June 13, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 211 Silvercreek Parkway South as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject property is PT LT A E/S OF GALT & GUELPH RAILWAY PL 52 AS IN ROS524508, SAVE AND EXCEPT PT 2, 61R6538; CITY OF GUELPH SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT AS IN RO791712 AND PT LOTS 1, 2, 3, 10, 11 & 12, PLAN 206, AS IN ROS524508; CITY OF GUELPH SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT AS IN RO791712. Statement of Significance The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 211 Silvercreek Parkway South


Notice of intention to designate: 408 Willow Road

June 13, 2024

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 408 Willow Road as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The current legal description of the subject real property is Block H, Plan 615, City of Guelph. Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets six of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by Ontario Regulation 569/22. The heritage attributes of 408 Willow Road display: design or physical, historical… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 408 Willow Road


National Celebration of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples event at Riverside Park on June 21

June 10, 2024

On June 21, the summer solstice, Guelph will celebrate the rich culture, notable achievements and unique heritage of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples in Guelph and beyond. Continue reading National Celebration of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples event at Riverside Park on June 21


Open house for the Ward West Heritage Conservation District Study

June 6, 2024

Drop into the Italian Canadian Club any time between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 27 to learn about the project and share feedback. Continue reading Open house for the Ward West Heritage Conservation District Study


City of Guelph announces 2024 Artists-in-Residence

May 29, 2024

HAUI and Tracey-Mae Chambers, announced today as the 2024 City of Guelph Artists-in-Residence, will invite the Guelph community into their creative practices with projects that explore past, present and future lived knowledges to create community connections that will deepen and broaden our shared understandings and experiences of the place we call Guelph. Continue reading City of Guelph announces 2024 Artists-in-Residence


Routine maintenance on Family Sculpture and Fountain starts April 29

April 23, 2024

The Family Sculpture and Fountain in St. George’s Square will undergo routine conservation and maintenance work April 29 to May 3. Continue reading Routine maintenance on Family Sculpture and Fountain starts April 29


360 ALLSTARS deliver theatre for thrill-seekers

April 18, 2024

BMX, basketball, breakdancing, and more come to River Run Centre’s Main Stage   GUELPH, ON April 18, 2024 – Experience adrenalin pumping thrills with the supercharged urban circus 360 ALLSTARS, coming to River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Wednesday, May 8 at 7 p.m. The show is part of River Run Centre’s 2023/24 RESOUNDING Season, sponsored by Richardson Wealth. Offering entertainment to delight grandkids and thrill grandparents alike, it offers the perfect cap to an exciting season, which offers something for everyone.   360 ALLSTARS features world record-holding athletes in a spectacular fusion of artistry and street culture. The show features jaw-dropping skills in BMX trick-riding, acrobatics, and basketball-handling wizardry set to an energetic soundtrack of beatbox, breakdance, and drumming. This tour celebrates the show’s 10th anniversary which… Continue reading 360 ALLSTARS deliver theatre for thrill-seekers


Just For Laughs Road Show returns to Main Stage with Canadian comics

April 4, 2024

The 19th annual touring production comes to River Run Centre as part of comedy series GUELPH, ON April 4, 2024 – Get ready for an award-winning night of standup when the annual Just For Laughs Road Show returns to River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, April 26 at 8 p.m. The 19th edition is presented as part of the GuelphToday.com Comedy Series and this year, the show boasts an impressive lineup for its special Canadian edition. Mike Rita, The Second City’s Cream of Comedy winner, hosts the event. Funny, smart, and relatable, Rita has garnered an impressive fan following. He was runner-up for NOW Magazine’s Best Male Stand-Up in 2014 and 2015, has appeared at Just For Laughs Festival, starred alongside Russell Peters on Roast Battle… Continue reading Just For Laughs Road Show returns to Main Stage with Canadian comics


City of Guelph to receive federal investment for new central library

March 25, 2024

New library also the first stand-alone library certified under the Zero Carbon Building – Design Standard Guelph, Ont., March 25, 2024 – Guelph is set to receive a federal investment of $13.5 million to help support construction of the new central library. Announced today by Guelph MP Lloyd Longfield and Mayor Cam Guthrie, this funding will contribute to the creation of a vibrant new community hub in Guelph. “Libraries are the trademark of educated, equitable and democratic societies. Cities across Canada are turning to these inclusive building types to revitalize their downtowns, boost visitors, and enhance access to information and resources. Guelph’s new central library will help contribute to a thriving community as a hub that will inspire residents to learn and explore for years… Continue reading City of Guelph to receive federal investment for new central library


Doors Open Guelph presents free tours and fascinating experiences

March 20, 2024

Doors Open Guelph returns Saturday, April 27 with free guided tours of some of Guelph’s most architecturally, historically and culturally significant sites. Continue reading Doors Open Guelph presents free tours and fascinating experiences


A tale of intrigue for toddlers: The Sword in the Violin Case

February 29, 2024

Park Eatery Kinderconcerts use storytelling to expose toddlers to classical music GUELPH, ON February 29, 2024 – This season’s final iteration of Park Eatery Kinderconcerts tells the exciting tale of a quest for stardom in The Sword in the Violin Case on Saturday, March 23 at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Park Eatery Kinderconcerts are an enriching, hands-on experience designed by the Guelph Symphony Orchestra (GSO) to expose children five years and younger to the magic of music and instruments. Set to the music of Saint-Georges de Chevalier, The Sword in the Violin Case tells the story of Saint Georges, a champion sword fighter, and his quest for stardom. Members of the GSO bring the symphony to life through an engaging and interactive… Continue reading A tale of intrigue for toddlers: The Sword in the Violin Case


Canada’s Celtic rock warriors bring electric kitchen party to River Run Centre

February 28, 2024

The Mudmen return for an exciting, energetic performance GUELPH, ON February 28, 2024 – A blast of Celtic energy is set to hit River Run Centre when the Mudmen take Main Stage on Saturday, March 23 at 8 p.m. This tour celebrates the band’s 25th anniversary, and the band known for energetic live concerts does not plan to hold back. This show is part of the Sleeman-Spring Mill Music Series, which features exciting Canadian and international music icons. Established in 1998, the Mudmen have earned their reputation as Canada’s Celtic rock warriors. Blending bagpipes, drums, and a raucous spirit, their music is energizing and has become part of the Canadian soundtrack at various sporting events. In 2008, the Mudmen recorded the theme song for Hockey Night in… Continue reading Canada’s Celtic rock warriors bring electric kitchen party to River Run Centre


Big Sugar brings theatrical performance to River Run Centre

February 27, 2024

Power trio makes Guelph stop to celebrate iconic album GUELPH, ON February 27, 2024 – The legendary Big Sugar is set to rock River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, March 22 at 8 p.m. The Guelph stop is part of a cross-Canada tour celebrating the deluxe vinyl release of their groundbreaking album, Five Hundred Pounds. The show is part of the Sleeman-Spring Mill Music Series, which features a lineup of Canadian icons and international heavy-hitters. First released in 1993, Five Hundred Pounds stands as a defining masterpiece in Big Sugar’s discography. The album marks the pivotal moment that Gordie Johnson defined his own genre with the perfect blend of blues, rock, and reggae. Driven by Johnson’s masterful guitar and accompanied by his soulful blues falsetto, the album… Continue reading Big Sugar brings theatrical performance to River Run Centre


Call to Artists: Apply for Guelph’s 2024 Artist-in-Residence program

February 7, 2024

The City of Guelph invites artists and art collectives to submit Expressions of Interest for the 2024 Artist-in-Residence program. Continue reading Call to Artists: Apply for Guelph’s 2024 Artist-in-Residence program


Open house: Downtown Guelph Heritage Conservation District Study on February 20

January 31, 2024

Help shape a potential heritage conservation district in the downtown core As part of the Downtown Guelph Heritage Conservation District study, we are hosting an open house on February 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Marg Mackinnon Room at City Hall. Join us to provide feedback, ask questions, and learn about the study findings. Can’t make it? You can share your feedback online at https://www.haveyoursay.guelph.ca/downtown-district. The study is nearing completion, and it recommends that Council proceed to establish a heritage conservation district in downtown Guelph. Members of the project team will be sharing findings at multiple stations located within the Marg Mackinnon Room and will be available to answer your questions and collect feedback. Specifically, the project team is looking to determine… Continue reading Open house: Downtown Guelph Heritage Conservation District Study on February 20


The Trews perform iconic album House of Ill Fame start to finish

January 18, 2024

Tickets going fast for Guelph stop of cross-country anniversary tour GUELPH, ON January 18, 2024 – One of Canada’s favourite rock bands returns to Guelph when The Trews take the Main Stage at River Run Centre on Saturday, February 10 at 8 p.m. The Trews – House of Ill Fame 20th Anniversary Tour celebrates the band’s iconic, platinum-selling debut record. The show is part of the Sleeman-Spring Mill Music Series, which features a lineup of Canadian icons and international heavy-hitters. Released in 2003, House of Ill Fame is the first full-length album of The Trews. Last year, the record was certified Platinum in Canada, reaching over 100,000 copies sold. With a 12-song track list written primarily by the four members of the band at that time – Colin… Continue reading The Trews perform iconic album House of Ill Fame start to finish


D’eve Archer returns to Guelph with performance at River Run Centre

January 17, 2024

Rising R&B star set to blow the roof off the Studio Theatre on February 9 GUELPH, ON January 17, 2024 – Multi-talented singer, songwriter, and one of Guelph’s most exciting performers returns to River Run Centre when D’eve Archer plays the Studio Theatre on Friday, February 9 at 8 p.m. This show is presented as part of the Miijidaa Music Series, which features a broad range of Canadian artists. Knar Jewellery supports this performance as the exclusive Show Sponsor. D’eve Archer is making waves with her powerful voice, honest lyrics, and dynamic presence. Classically trained, she was drawn to the rhythmic sounds of jazz and soul at a young age. This combination of strong, classical training and smooth, funky rhythms combine expertly in her music to deliver a… Continue reading D’eve Archer returns to Guelph with performance at River Run Centre


African folklore through symphony: The Lion and the Mouse

January 10, 2024

Park Eatery Kinderconcerts are designed to expose toddlers to music GUELPH, ON January 10, 2024 – This iteration of Park Eatery Kinderconcerts takes young ones to the African Sergenti in the traditional tale of The Lion and the Mouse, presented at River Run Centre on Saturday, February 3 at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Park Eatery Kinderconcerts are designed to expose children five years and younger to the magic of music and instruments. The Lion and the Mouse is an African folklore which tells the story of Enyi, a timid mouse, who accidentally disturbs Aza, the lion. In an act of kindness, the lion allows the mouse to escape, only to have it later save his life in return. The simple story teaches… Continue reading African folklore through symphony: The Lion and the Mouse


Notice of intention to designate: 331 Clair Road East

November 23, 2023

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 331 Clair Road East as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject property is CON 8 REAR PT LOT 11; City of Guelph. Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets four of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by 569/22. The heritage attributes of 331 Clair Road East display: design or physical, historical… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 331 Clair Road East


Notice of intention to designate: 49 Metcalfe Street

November 23, 2023

Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Guelph intends to designate 49 Metcalfe Street as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under section 29, Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter 0.18. Description of the property The legal description of the subject property is PLAN 357 LOT 26 PT LOT 24; City of Guelph. Statement of cultural heritage value or interest The subject property is worthy of designation under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act because it meets five of the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest, according to Ontario Regulation 9/06 as amended by 569/22. The heritage attributes of 49 Metcalfe Street display: design or physical, historical or… Continue reading Notice of intention to designate: 49 Metcalfe Street