Migration Festival

The Kingsville Migration Festival begins October 18, 2019 and ends October 20, 2019. There is something for all ages!

Join us for this celebration of migration, heritage, conservation and Jack Miner!

Jack Miner

Jack Miner was a hunter who knew the value of conservation of the natural environment and the wildlife. His efforts started the conservation movement and began the waterfowl refuge management system in Canada.

Jack was born in Westlake Ohio on April 10, 1865. Jack Miner settled on land in the former Township of Gosfield South, now the Town of Kingsville. The area is located in Essex County, surrounded on three sides by the Great Lakes and is a natural stop for many migratory birds. In 1909, Jack Miner began banding ducks, followed by Canada Geese in 1915, each with a bible verse. The bands allow the Sanctuary to gather details about migrating birds each season.

The Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary started in 1904 and continues its work to this day. Jack Miner's home and a museum dedicated to his work, as well as five kilometres of trails are open to the public free of charge.

Opening Ceremonies

The opening ceremonies will take place  on Thursday October 17, 2019 at 6pm. Join us for a wine and cheese reception to kick off the 50th Golden Anniversary Celebration.

Festival Parade

The parade takes place on October 19, 2019. It begins at 10:30am. You can enjoy the parade from anywhere on the parade route! The route begins at Main Street and Spruce Street and travels south on Division Street to Erie Street. This year's theme is golden 50th Anniversary  and you can enjoy bands, floats and entertainers.

If you would like to enter the parade you can fill out and submit the appropriate form online. All forms are due by October 1, 2019.

Parade Float Entry Form

Parade Band Entry Form

Please take some time to read through the staging instructions which will be available shortly

Photography Competition and Sale

Marketplace

The Marketplace takes place at the Kingsville Arena October 19, 2019 from 11:00am to 4:00pm and October 20, 2019 from 11:00am to 3:30pm. Come out and enjoy local vendors. The Arena has lots of parking and is fully accessible. The Marketplace is free to get in.

If you would like to be a vendor, you can fill out a 2019 Vendor Application Form and bring it to the Kingsville Arena.

Children's Events

Come out and enjoy the children's activities during the Migration Festival!

The Migration parade begins at 10:30am on October 19, 2019. It is the perfect way to start your day at the festival!

Children's events take place at Lakeside Park following the parade.

Other Events

Sponsorship and Media

For all media or sponsorship inquiries please contact Maggie Durocher at 519-733-2123 or by email.

We thank all of our volunteers and community supporters! Without you, this event would not be possible.

A special thank-you to our 2018 sponsors

• Pelee Island Winery
• Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary
• The Town of Kingsville

Local Links and Accommodations

Please visit our Business Directory for a full list of local links and accommodations.

Contact Us

Please feel free to contact the committee member with your questions listed in the table below: