What free things are there to do in London, Ontario in the summer?

Free summer activities in London include outdoor concerts and festivals at Victoria Park, walking and cycling the Thames Valley Parkway, cooling off at neighbourhood splash pads, and browsing the Western Fair Farmers' & Artisans' Market.

Are London, Ontario's splash pads free to use?

Yes. The City of London operates several free outdoor splash pads across local parks that typically run from late spring through early fall, with no admission fee.

Is parking free at Victoria Park in London, Ontario?

Victoria Park itself is free to enter. Nearby on-street and lot parking may be paid during posted hours, so check signage or use a transit option for events.

Where can I find out about free events in London each week?

The London Briefing is a free weekly email newsletter that rounds up local events, community happenings, and what's changing in the city — a five-minute read with no crime and no politics.

Free Things to Do in London, Ontario This Summer (2026 Guide)

London, Ontario is full of free summer activities — outdoor concerts, riverside trails, splash pads, and weekend markets. Here's where to go without spending a dollar.

The short answer

London, Ontario is one of the easiest mid-sized Canadian cities to enjoy on a $0 budget in summer. Between Victoria Park's outdoor concerts and festivals, the Thames Valley Parkway trail network, free neighbourhood splash pads, and weekend markets, you can fill most weekends without spending a dollar. Below is a practical, regularly-updated rundown of where to go.

Outdoor concerts and festivals at Victoria Park

Victoria Park is the green heart of downtown London and the city's busiest summer gathering spot. Throughout the warmer months it hosts free-to-attend festivals and live music — many run by community organizations and supported by the City of London. Bring a blanket, arrive early for shade, and walk or take transit since event-day parking fills quickly.

Walk or cycle the Thames Valley Parkway

The Thames Valley Parkway is a multi-use pathway that follows the Thames River for roughly 40 kilometres through the city. It's free, flat in most sections, and connects several parks — making it ideal for a morning run, a family bike ride, or a riverside picnic. Access points are scattered across the city, so there's likely an entrance within walking distance of you.

Cool off at a free splash pad

When the humidity climbs, London's outdoor splash pads are a reliable, no-cost way to keep kids happy. The City operates several across local parks, and they generally run from late spring into early fall. There's no admission and no booking required — just show up.

Browse a weekend market

The Western Fair Farmers' & Artisans' Market is free to enter and a great way to spend a Saturday morning — local produce, baked goods, and crafts, with plenty to look at even if you're only window-shopping.

How to keep up with what's on

New events pop up across London every week. The easiest way to stay in the loop is the London Briefing — our free weekly email that summarizes local news, community events, and what's changing in the city in about five minutes. No crime, no politics, and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Frequently asked questions

What free things are there to do in London, Ontario in the summer?: Free summer activities in London include outdoor concerts and festivals at Victoria Park, walking and cycling the Thames Valley Parkway, cooling off at neighbourhood splash pads, and browsing the Western Fair Farmers' & Artisans' Market.
Are London, Ontario's splash pads free to use?: Yes. The City of London operates several free outdoor splash pads across local parks that typically run from late spring through early fall, with no admission fee.
Is parking free at Victoria Park in London, Ontario?: Victoria Park itself is free to enter. Nearby on-street and lot parking may be paid during posted hours, so check signage or use a transit option for events.
Where can I find out about free events in London each week?: The London Briefing is a free weekly email newsletter that rounds up local events, community happenings, and what's changing in the city — a five-minute read with no crime and no politics.

Sources

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