5 Motorcycle-Friendly Events for Canada Day 2018

Ever since the original Bikers Reunion event in New Liskeard shut down two years ago, we’ve been looking for the perfect way for riders to celebrate Canada Day on two wheels. And we’ve found not one, but five, amazing events that welcome riders. 

We’ve added in recommendations for routes to take before and after the event to make sure you celebrate our national day the best way possible—flying down the highway with the wind in your hair!

Timiskaming Bikers Meet

Notre Dame-du-Nord, QC - June 29 to July 1, 2018

Billed as a semi-replacement for the Bikers Reunion, the Timiskaming Bikers Meet is actually taking place on the Quebec side of Lake Temiskaming, in Timiskaming First Nation. This adds a crucial flavour and difference to this event, as there will be Indigenous drumming, arts and crafts, and a mini pow-wow on June 30. The big ride happens on July 1, and visits the Temiskaming Hospital just like the original Bikers Reunion did.

Bikers Reunion riders making their way to the Temiskaming Hospital

We highly recommend doing the Temiskaming Loop Tour to get to the event, and ride home—it’s one of our favourite rides and is definitely worth the drive. The Ontario side of the loop is all long sweepers through hills and valleys around lakes, rivers and streams, and the Quebec side showcases boreal forest alongside massive sections of farmland.

Check out the Temiskaming Loop on the Go Tour Ontario Interactive Trip Planner

Georgian Widows Sons’ Annual Canada Day Ride

Barrie, ON - July 1, 2018

One of the few motorcycle-specific events happening on Canada Day, the Georgian Widows Sons’ Ride also includes a classic car display (we know you’re all motorheads too) and is part of the iconic Georgian Bay Coastal Route—so there’re lots of ways to turn attendance into a weekend long ride.

Plus, money raised goes to folks with intellectual disabilities in Simcoe County—so the $35 registration fee is for a good cause!

Kenora Canada Day Fireworks Display

Kenora, ON - July 1, 2018

Kenora is a beautiful city that lives surrounded by water. And that’s what makes celebrating here so spectacular—the fireworks shimmering off the lake, surrounded by boats, and the wide open motorcycle cruising grounds you’ll find in every direction. The Kenora Canada Day Festivities begin at 10 am and go to 4 pm. Later, for those who want to ride all day and slide in at night, live music starts at 10 pm and fireworks begin at 10:45 pm. For riders coming from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Manitoba, we recommend the Nor’Wester Route. 

Run to the North Wall 

Windsor, ON - July 1, 2018

This event supports Canadian Vets who served in the Vietnam War. There’s a breakfast at 9 am and the ride starts at 11:30. If you’re looking to extend the ride, check out www.CruiseTheCoast.ca.

Stars and Thunder Festival 2018

Timmins, ON - June 24 to July 1, 2018

Smack dab in the middle of Northeastern Ontario’s Great Legend Tour, last year's Stars and Thunder was a monumental success and this year promises to be bigger, better and badder. Stars include Bryan Adams, Burton Cummings and The Beach Boys, and the ride should prove just as entertaining. Larry Berrio actually filmed his video “What A Ride” at last year's concert—to get a sense of how big it actually is.

If you’re thinking about just going for a ride on Canada Day—don’t forget to tag us on your Instagram and Facebook posts: #ontariomotoroads. Have a blast out there!

Showing 'Edited Body' is no longer supported.