An incredible natural spectacle has returned to Ontario, and this weekend, a historic small town is celebrating one of Ontario’s most captivating autumn traditions.
Every fall, thousands of Chinook and Coho salmon make their remarkable journey upstream along the Ganaraska River in Port Hope. The annual spectacle, where 5,000 to nearly 20,000 fish leap through rushing waters to reach their home spawning grounds, draws crowds from across the region to witness Mother Nature in full motion.
Alongside this natural wonder, the town comes alive with Run Salmon Run, a free community festival celebrating the migration right along the riverbank.
Organized as a 100% local celebration of community and nature, the event packs a full day of arts, culture, and interactive entertainment downtown along the river. Attendees can wander through lively fish ponds, check out a quirky cardboard fish market, enjoy live music performances, and browse work from local painters and authors.
The event is completely free to attend.
The primary action takes place right at the Ganaraska Fishway (Corbett’s Dam), which offers the absolute best vantage point to watch the massive salmon leap up the fish ladder. You can also follow the scenic trails tracing the river directly from downtown for a leisurely riverside stroll.
Run Salmon Run takes place along the Ganaraska River in downtown Port Hope from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on September 13, 2026. Though the festival offers a dedicated day of festivities, the salmon migration continues through mid-October, making it the perfect fall day trip.
