Port Hope’s Hibernate Festival Goes Free for First Time

Port Hope is buzzing with excitement for the Hibernate Festival, and this year, the popular winter event returns as the Hibernate Festival Free, marking its fourth year and ensuring wider community access. This significant shift to a completely free festival runs from February 13 to 16, 2026, transforming downtown Port Hope into a hub of creative spaces featuring live music, abundant arts and crafts, film screenings, delicious local food, and a strong emphasis on family friendly activities. This move to a free event, made possible by strong community support and generous donations from organizations like The Steve and Sally Stavro Family Foundation, Canadian Heritage through their Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, and the Ontario Creates Ontario Live Music Investment Fund, promises a vibrant weekend of culture and connection. The anticipation for this free winter festival is palpable.

The Hibernate Festival Free: A Celebration for All

The Hibernate Festival aims to be inclusive, and making it the Hibernate Festival Free is a priority to ensure families can participate easily, especially during the colder months when connection matters most. Jeff Bray, executive director of Cultivate Community, highlighted the goal of removing barriers to this free winter festival. The festival grounds will span downtown Port Hope, with cafes, libraries, shops, and outdoor spaces hosting events, creating a walkable network that makes art and culture accessible. This commitment to being a free winter festival aligns with Cultivate Community’s mission to foster belonging and connection through accessible arts experiences, offering a warm embrace on a cold weekend.

Arts, Music, and Community Spirit at the Hibernate Festival Free

Attendees can expect diverse programming at the Hibernate Festival Free, including live music performances by many Canadian artists, hands-on workshops in printmaking and candle making, heritage walks offering local history insights, film screenings, and participatory arts activities designed for drop-in attendance. The goal is community celebration and shared experiences, encouraging local engagement and showcasing both local and national talent to enrich the event and create a unique atmosphere where the arts truly come alive downtown. This community arts event is a highlight of the year.

Musical Talents Take the Stage at the Hibernate Festival Free

Music is a central theme at the Hibernate Festival Free, with several artists slated to perform, including Evan Redsky, Alyson McNamara, Irish Millie, and Mike T. Kerr. Bluegrass music will fill the air, with a special Bluegrass Valentine’s night planned at Ganaraska Brewing Company. Other musical acts are expected, and the “Under Covers” concert serves as a preview event featuring friends of Cultivate performing favorite Canadian songs to help fund the Hibernate Festival Free and add another musical dimension. The festival offers a rich music lineup at this community arts event, catering to diverse tastes.

Key Supporters Fuel the Hibernate Festival Free

The transition to a free event like the Hibernate Festival Free relied on key funders. The Steve and Sally Stavro Family Foundation is a major backer, matching community donations to create a significant impact. Canadian Heritage supports local festivals through its program promoting arts and heritage. Ontario Creates funds live music events through the Ontario Live Music Investment Fund, supporting Canadian artists. Cultivate Community, the presenting charity for this community arts event, orchestrates it all with a clear mandate to strengthen communities through grassroots leadership, creative partnerships, and innovative artistic programming, making the Hibernate Festival Free possible.

Looking Forward to the Hibernate Festival Free

The Hibernate Festival is a cherished tradition, and this year’s Hibernate Festival Free is exciting news, promising a memorable winter weekend in Port Hope alive with creativity. Music and art will fill the streets, allowing families and friends to connect in a celebration of community spirit. The event runs February 13-16, 2026, and is a testament to community vision, offering accessible arts for everyone. Don’t miss this vibrant free winter festival, a highlight of the year and a wonderful community arts event.