Brantford Beats & Eats returns to Downtown Brantford
Get ready for one of Downtown Brantford’s most exciting summer events! The second annual Brantford Beats & Eats festival returns on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., featuring live music, delicious food, local art, and family-friendly entertainment. This free festival will take place in Harmony Square and along a section of Colborne Street East.
Music lovers can enjoy an incredible lineup of free performances across two stages throughout the day. On the Harmony Square Stage, NBA entertainer Q-MACK will host and entertain guests between performances from Backburner, Garnetta Cromwell, Wreckless Harbour, Hayley Verrall, Jammer’s Waffle House, and Ty Wilson.
Over at the Parkette Stage, located beside the Brantford Public Library, you can enjoy performances by Mary Simon, Wandering x Canopy, Gracie Jet, Quinn Sutherland, Matt Campbell, Piper & Carson, and The Grace San Andres Quartet.
Visitors can explore a variety of food vendors and food trucks serving delicious food, refreshing drinks, and sweet treats while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Downtown Brantford. You can also browse the artisan marketplace, watch talented artists at work, and enjoy interactive performances and entertainment throughout the day.
New this year will be the Battle of the Brushes live painting competition. Eight participating artists will have 40 minutes to paint their artwork, and the audience will vote to crown the champion. Round one will take place on Colborne Street from 12 p.m. to 12:40 p.m., and the paintings will be the artists' choice, with a voting period following. Round two will take place from 1 p.m. to 1:40 p.m., and the paintings will be Brantford-themed, with a voting period to follow before the winners are announced.
Free parking is available in the municipal parking garage located at 59 Icomm Drive. Whether you’re coming for the live music, delicious food, or simply looking for a fun way to spend a summer day with family and friends, Brantford Beats & Eats is an event you won’t want to miss.