Wasaga Beach's free summer music festivals boost local economy and tourism

A vibrant summer lineup

Its annual Summer Launch takes place May 18 (during the Victoria Day long weekend), and features a retro roller skate event and fireworks at the beach. The summer concert series includes:

• The Strumbellas on Canada Day
• The Carpet Frogs on July 27
• Tom Cochrane at the Memories of Summer Music Festival on September 1

These concerts will take place on the sandy shores of the longest freshwater beach in the world, offering a unique outdoor music experience. Admission is free, and events are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays starting in mid-June. Other performers set to take the stage at Wasaga Beach this summer include Kitty & The Boyz, Peasant Kings, Jess Bowman, Mirrage, David Grossman Sol de Cuba and Strike Tyson.

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Local attractions and activities

Beyond the music festivals, Wasaga Beach offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors set to decend on the beach town and surrounding areas this summer:

• Wasaga Beach Provincial Park: Enjoy swimming, hiking and relaxing in this scenic park located on the south shore of Georgian Bay
• Nottawasaga River: Explore the river by canoe, kayak or paddleboard, and experience the area's rich history
• Nancy Island Historic Site: Learn about the War of 1812 and the HMS Nancy through theatrical performances and cannon-firing exhibitions
• Wasaga Adventure Park: Engage in activities such as paintball, axe throwing, laser combat games and archery tag
• Wasaga 500: Experience family-friendly fun with batting cages, mini golf and go-kart racing

Economic impact and tourism growth

Wasaga Beach is riding a wave of tourism growth, welcoming nearly two million visitors in 2023 — a 20.9% increase over 2019. That surge in foot traffic is more than just a statistic; it’s a sign that the town’s strategic push to become a year-round destination is gaining real momentum.

At the heart of that effort is Wasaga’s new Tourism Destination Management Plan, a blueprint focused on boosting local businesses, enriching visitor experiences and promoting sustainable growth. From creating attractions that draw people outside of the busy summer months to implementing environmentally responsible practices, the plan aims to balance economic development with long-term community well-being.

Local entrepreneurs are already seeing the upside. The influx of tourists has driven demand across restaurants, retail shops, accommodations and services. Major improvements like the reopening of Beach Drive and new waterfront attractions have helped breathe new life into the area, making it more walkable, vibrant and welcoming for both locals and visitors.

Combined with a growing calendar of cultural programming — including this summer’s blockbuster music series— Wasaga Beach is positioning itself as more than just a beach town. With its mix of live entertainment, outdoor adventure and small-town charm, it’s quickly becoming a go-to destination for travellers looking to unwind, explore, and connect.