As the weather warms up, Markham comes alive with events that celebrate the city's culture, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you're into art, nature, comedy, or cycling, there's something happening in Markham this spring and summer that's worth marking on your calendar.
Here's your guide to the events you don't want to miss in 2026 — from free outdoor walks to headline comedy acts and family-friendly festivals.
Free Guided Walks at Rouge National Urban Park — March 28-29
Rouge National Urban Park, one of Canada's largest urban parks, sits right on Markham's doorstep. This spring, Parks Canada is offering free guided walks on March 28 and 29, giving visitors a chance to explore the park's trails, wetlands, and natural heritage with expert guides.
The walks cover different sections of the park and are suitable for all fitness levels. It's a perfect opportunity to get outdoors after the long winter, learn about the park's biodiversity, and discover trails you might not have explored on your own. Spots tend to fill up quickly, so register early through the Parks Canada website.
Whether you're a regular hiker or just looking for a relaxing weekend activity, these guided walks are a wonderful way to reconnect with nature without leaving the city.
Boots For Art at Varley Art Gallery — March 28
The Varley Art Gallery in Unionville is hosting "Boots For Art" on March 28 — a community art event that invites visitors to explore the gallery's current exhibitions in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. The event features live art demonstrations, interactive stations, and a chance to meet local artists.
Named in the spirit of Fred Varley, one of the Group of Seven painters who called this area home, the event is a celebration of art and community. It's family-friendly, and admission is free, making it an easy addition to your weekend plans. The gallery itself is a beautiful space, and the Unionville Main Street area offers plenty of cafés and shops to explore before or after your visit.
Just For Laughs Roadshow at Flato Markham Theatre — April 22
Canada's biggest comedy brand is bringing its roadshow to Markham. The Just For Laughs Roadshow hits the Flato Markham Theatre on April 22, featuring a lineup of professional comedians performing live stand-up.
The Flato Theatre is a fantastic venue for live comedy — it's intimate enough that every seat feels close to the stage, but large enough for a real crowd atmosphere. The Just For Laughs brand consistently delivers strong lineups, and this show is expected to sell out. Tickets are available through the theatre's website, and early booking is recommended.
If you're looking for a great date night or a fun evening out with friends, this is one of the standout events of the spring season.
Heintzman House Art Show — April 25
The historic Heintzman House — one of Markham's most beautiful heritage properties — hosts its annual art show on April 25. Local and regional artists display and sell their work across the property's elegant rooms, creating a gallery experience that feels both intimate and grand.
The art show features a wide range of mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media. It's a chance to discover new artists, find a unique piece for your home, and support the local arts community. The house itself, with its Victorian architecture and manicured gardens, is worth the visit alone.
Admission is typically free, and the event runs throughout the day. Arrive early for the best selection of artwork.
Markham Cycling Day — June 14
Markham Cycling Day returns on June 14, and it's one of the city's most popular warm-weather events. The city opens designated routes for cyclists of all ages and skill levels, creating a car-free experience that lets you explore Markham on two wheels.
The event includes guided group rides, bike safety workshops, family-friendly routes, and rest stops with refreshments. Past years have featured live music at various points along the route, bike tune-up stations, and local food vendors. It's a fantastic event for families, and it's completely free to participate.
If you don't own a bike, don't worry — bike-sharing options are usually available at the event. Markham Cycling Day is a great reminder of how accessible and enjoyable cycling can be in this city, and it's an excellent way to discover neighbourhoods and trails you might not have visited before.
Markham-Milliken Children's Festival — September 12
The Markham-Milliken Children's Festival on September 12 is a beloved annual tradition for families across the region. Held in a park setting, the festival features live performances, interactive workshops, games, rides, face painting, and activities designed for children of all ages.
The festival typically draws thousands of families and creates a vibrant, joyful atmosphere. Local organizations and businesses set up booths, and there's always plenty of food from vendors representing Markham's diverse culinary scene. It's a full-day event, so plan to arrive early and stay for the performances in the afternoon.
Admission is free, and while parking can be busy, the festival is accessible by public transit and bike.
Doors Open Markham — September 26
Doors Open Markham on September 26 is your chance to explore buildings and spaces that are normally closed to the public. Heritage homes, government buildings, places of worship, private gardens, and unique architectural spaces all open their doors for free tours and exploration.
Past editions have included access to the Markham Museum's historic village, behind-the-scenes tours of local businesses, and visits to architecturally significant homes in Unionville and other neighbourhoods. It's a fascinating way to learn about Markham's history and discover hidden corners of the city.
The event is entirely free and self-guided — you can visit as many or as few sites as you like. A map and listing of participating locations is published in advance on the City of Markham's website.
Weekly Events Worth Knowing About
Beyond the big calendar events, Markham has a growing scene of weekly happenings that are worth checking out:
- Vinyl Wednesdays at Rouge River Brewery. If you're into craft beer and vinyl records, this weekly event at Rouge River Brewery is a gem. Bring your own records to spin or just enjoy the selections from other attendees. It's a relaxed, social evening with great local beer on tap.
- Open Mic Nights. Several venues across Markham host regular open mic nights for music, comedy, and spoken word. These events are a great way to discover local talent and enjoy live entertainment in an intimate setting. Check local venue calendars for specific schedules.
- Thirsty Thursdays. Several restaurants and bars in the Markham area offer Thursday evening specials — discounted drinks, food pairings, and social events. It's a midweek tradition that's grown in popularity, especially among younger professionals in the area.
Plan Your Spring and Summer in Markham
From free nature walks to comedy shows, from art galleries to cycling days, Markham offers a rich and diverse calendar of events that reflects the city's vibrant community. The best part? Many of these events are free or very affordable, making it easy to get out, explore, and connect with your neighbours.
For more information on local businesses, services, and community resources in Markham, visit markhambusiness.com — your guide to everything happening in Markham and Richmond Hill.