Top 5 Summer Festivals in Canada to Enjoy with an Ice Cream Treat 🍦
When summer hits Canada, it brings with it long days, lively festivals, and the perfect excuse to indulge in one of life’s greatest pleasures — ice cream. Whether you’re jamming out at a music festival, enjoying a cultural parade, or strolling through a local fair, ice cream just makes everything better.
At Six Swirls, we believe every summer event deserves a creamy, dreamy scoop. So we’ve rounded up five of Canada’s most iconic summer festivals — and paired each one with ice cream flavours that make the experience even more unforgettable.
1. Calgary Stampede – Calgary, Alberta
Dates: Early to mid-July
Nicknamed The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede is a thrilling mix of rodeos, chuckwagon races, live concerts, and street performances. While the cowboy hats and boots are iconic, the scorching prairie sun calls for a cool-down — and that’s where ice cream saves the day.
Recommended ice cream flavors: Vanilla with sprinkles for a classic fair vibe, bubblegum for the kids (and the kid in you), and churro swirl to match that deep-fried Stampede energy. If you’re ever in the Greater Toronto Area and want a taste of that carnival spirit, Six Swirls brings a similar fun-filled vibe to your local events with their bright truck and nostalgic flavours.
2. Toronto Caribbean Carnival – Toronto, Ontario
Dates: Late July to early August
Formerly known as Caribana, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and food. From the rhythmic soca and reggae beats to the dazzling costumes, the energy here is unmatched. But here’s the secret to surviving the summer heat while dancing all day — ice cream. A fruity, tropical scoop can be your best friend as you enjoy the Grand Parade or taste-test island snacks.
Recommended ice cream flavors: Mango sorbet for something light and refreshing, coconut cream to match the Caribbean theme, and pineapple swirl for a tropical twist. If you’re planning a themed event or party, you can even book Six Swirls to bring tropical ice cream magic right to your venue.
3. Poutine Fest – Ottawa, Ontario
Dates: May (with pop-ups in summer)
Yes, it’s a celebration of fries, cheese curds, and gravy… but no festival experience is complete without a sweet finale. After devouring Canada’s most iconic comfort food, balance it out with a rich, creamy bowl of ice cream.
Recommended ice cream flavors: Cookies & cream for a crunchy contrast, chocolate fudge for the sweet tooth, and maple walnut for a true Canadian pairing. Six Swirls has the kind of menu that complements indulgent eats like poutine — and their retro ice cream truck is a total crowd-pleaser for events and street food festivals.
4. Celebration of Light – Vancouver, British Columbia
Dates: Late July to early August
Watching fireworks light up the sky over English Bay is a summer tradition for many in Vancouver. Add a scoop (or two) of ice cream to the mix, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect evening. Families, couples, and groups of friends flock to the beach early to grab their spots — and having a chilled ice cream cone in hand makes the wait a whole lot sweeter.
Recommended ice cream flavors: Strawberry cheesecake for a romantic vibe, cotton candy for the kids, and espresso swirl to stay awake until the fireworks finale. Six Swirls is known for serving nostalgic flavours that would be perfect for a sunset moment like this — and while they’re based in the GTA, we’d love to see a west coast expansion!
5. Franco-Fête – Moncton, New Brunswick
Dates: August
Franco-Fête celebrates Acadian and Francophone culture with performances, workshops, art, and culinary delights. It’s also the perfect opportunity to enjoy ice cream inspired by French and Canadian classics. From maple syrup drizzles to creamy lavender notes, ice cream can become part of the cultural celebration.
Recommended ice cream flavors: Maple swirl for a nod to Quebec, lavender honey for a floral touch, and French vanilla for pure indulgence. While Six Swirls may not be in Moncton yet, their flavor philosophy fits beautifully with cultural celebrations across the country.
Final Thoughts: Festivals + Ice Cream = Summer Bliss
No matter which part of Canada you’re in, summer festivals bring joy, community, and unforgettable memories. Add ice cream to the equation, and you’ve got the perfect combo of sunshine and sweetness. For those in the GTA, keep your eyes peeled for the Six Swirls truck at your local events — or book them for private parties, launches, or surprise pop-ups. Because let’s be real: every summer celebration deserves swirls of happiness.
