The beautiful historic village of Elora, Ontario is gearing up to host one of the country’s most delicious culinary events this July.
As summer reaches its peak, Elora’s Longest BBQ is returning just in time, set to take place on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The free, all-ages street festival serves as the signature kickoff celebration for Food Day Canada, transforming the heart of the village into a giant community feast.
The event is designed to bring people together over exceptional local food and drink while celebrating the farmers, fishers, and chefs who feed the country. Originally inspired by the late Anita Stewart, a pioneering Canadian food advocate who raised her family in Elora, the event proudly keeps her “Canadian Food First” legacy alive.
More than 20 local restaurants and beverage vendors will line the streets to showcase creative dishes made with seasonal, locally sourced Canadian ingredients. Expect mouthwatering eats from local icons like the Elora Mill, Ted Reader BBQ, Bardo Restaurants, The Evelyn Bistro, and Vancouver Island’s South Fire, alongside drinks from Elora Brewery, Cave Spring, and Steam Whistle. From savoury, smoky BBQ plates to sweet distractions and artisanal scoops, there is something for everyone.
Following a record-breaking 2025 that drew more than 12,000 guests, this year’s event is raising the bar once more with a brand-new Farm to Fork Discovery Education Zone, giving families a hands-on way to connect with where their food comes from. Beyond the incredible food, the night also features live musical performances, craft beers gardens, and interactive spaces.
While admission to the festival grounds is completely free and open to all ages, guests will need to purchase food and beverage tickets to sample the culinary creations. Organizers encourage attendees to buy their tickets online in advance to bypass long entry queues.
Just 90 minutes from Toronto, this is the summer evening worth planning around. The feast kicks off at 4 p.m. and runs until 10 p.m. You can learn more about the event here.
