Migration Festival

Kingsville Migration Festival COVID 19 UPDATE

The  Kingsville Festival Committee is planning on moving forward with the 51st Annual Migration Festival, intending to adhere to official guidelines . We are making plans to host the Migration Festival under rules of the new normal, whether that means slightly altered events or possibly going virtual. Our plans that have been listed may change to accommodate safe distancing and Health Canada Guidelines, so please check back often for changes. 

The Kingsville Migration Festival begins October 15, 2020 and ends October 18, 2020. There is something for all ages, as we "Celebrate our Community"

Join us for this celebration of migration, art,  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 Thursday October 15, 2020

The opening ceremonies will take place  on Thursday October 15, 2020 at 6:00 PM at The Grovedale House.   Join us for a free family BBQ, entertainment, and  preview of the weekends entertainment.  Don't miss the opportunity to meet some of  the "Plein Air"  Artists who will be participating in the Great Migration Paint Out during the weekend. 

Festival Parade Saturday October 17 

Our theme this year will be 'Second Chance Celebrations'.   As everyone has missed out on personal celebrations during 2020, we invite everyone to share their missed special moments with the Kingsville Community!  Examples could be birthdays, graduations, family vacations etc.  More details and parade applications to follow so please check back shortly."  

Marketplace October 17 and 18

The Marketplace takes place at the Kingsville Arena October 17, 2020 from 11:00am to 4:00pm and October 18, 2020 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.

Vendor packages will be available shortly so please check back soon

New for 2020-The Great Migration Paint-OUT

This October watch for artists painting live throughout our community.  Plein air painting is painting out doors.  If you are a visual artist, join us in Kingsville Ontario and capture Kingsville and it's diversity on canvas live under the sun.  Painting Days are October 15-18 2020.  Exhibition and sale October 18 from 1-5pm.  Be sure to not to miss the student ART SHOW at the Grovedale on October 18, you will be amazed at the talent!

To Register please fill out the registration form attached to this link:  Registration Form

Great Migration paint out Rules and Regulations

Children's Events at Lakeside Park October 17

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

Saturday October 17th hours 12 - 4PM

Children's Activities at Lakeside Park

Children's Marketplace at the Pavilion

Fantasy Express Train Rides around the Park

Pony Rides 

Mini Putt Golf

Kingsport Environmental Raptor Show - Mettawas Park

Scouts BBQ

More updates to follow

Dress a Goose Fundraiser

Purchase your very own Canada Goose Decoy and dress it up to celebrate  Kingsville Migration Fest.  Weekend guests will be encouraged to visit local businesses to find the geese and take a picture with the hashtag #MigFest50.  Geese are available for purchase at Kingsville Arena  for $75 or $50 to rent.  Help to promote Migration Fest  and dress a goose with us.

Sponsorship and Media

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

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

A special thank-you to our 2019 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: