Celebrate 10 Years of Drumming on the Dartmouth Waterfront
The Canada Day Drumming Festival returns on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 for its 10th Anniversary Celebration at Dartmouth Ferry Terminal Park on the Dartmouth Waterfront.
What started as a community drumming gathering has grown into one of the region’s vibrant Canada Day cultural celebrations — bringing together live performances, cultural programming, family-friendly activities, food experiences, and a curated waterfront market.
In 2026, we’re expanding the market experience to create an energetic festival atmosphere where visitors can explore local makers, food vendors, cultural experiences, and community activities throughout the day.
Why Join the Drum Beat Market?
Participating vendors will benefit from:
- High foot traffic during Canada Day celebrations on the Dartmouth waterfront
- A returning audience built over 10 years of Canada Day Drumming
- Additional visitor flow from live performances, cultural programming, and nearby waterfront activities
- Social media exposure through festival promotions, vendor spotlights, and audience sharing
- Opportunities to connect directly with customers and grow brand visibility
- A curated market environment focused on creativity, culture, and community engagement
This is more than a market — it’s a chance to be part of a lively waterfront celebration that brings people together through music, food, art, culture, and community connection.
Vendor Categories
Arts, Crafts & Creative Vendors
We welcome:
- Handmade artisans & makers
- Artists, illustrators, designers, and creative brands
- Jewelry, ceramics, textiles, prints, home décor, cultural goods, and more
- Curated retail and lifestyle vendors with visually engaging products
Priority may be given to original handmade work and vendors with strong booth presentation.
Food Vendors
We are seeking food vendors that can contribute to a fun and festival-friendly Canada Day experience.
Examples include:
- Street food & BBQ
- Bubble tea & beverages
- Desserts & snacks
- Ice cream & sweet treats
- Asian-inspired food concepts
- Quick-service festival food
Food vendors must comply with all public health and food safety requirements.
Promotional Exhibitors
Perfect for brands, organizations, and businesses looking to connect with the public through:
- Interactive activations
- Product showcases
- Giveaways & sampling
- Community engagement booths
- Family-friendly experiences
Cultural & Community Participants
We also welcome:
- Cultural organizations
- Non-profit groups
- Community initiatives
- Educational activities
- Interactive cultural experiences & demonstrations
Selected cultural and community participants may qualify for reduced or complimentary participation opportunities.
Curated Market Experience
The Drum Beat Market will use a curated vendor selection approach to create a balanced and engaging festival atmosphere.
Vendor selection will consider:
- Product quality
- Booth presentation
- Category balance
- Festival fit
- Overall contribution to the event experience
Event Details
Canada Day Drumming Festival 2026
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Alderney Landing / Ferry Terminal Park
Dartmouth Waterfront
Market Hours:
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

