PondFest 2026

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Hours
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Where music, art, and community come together for an unforgettable celebration.

June 13, 2026; 1-11 PM

About PondFest

PondFest is a one-day community celebration in Hyde Park, known for its lively atmosphere and engaging activities that bring people together in the heart of the Village Green. This beloved summer tradition offers something for everyone, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking a fun day out with family and friends.

At the center of PondFest is the unveiling of a unique community piano, a collaborative art project painted by talented students from Oakridge Secondary School. The piano remains in the park all summer, inviting visitors to create their own music and memories.

In addition to the piano reveal, PondFest features an incredible lineup of local bands, showcasing the musical talent that makes London a UNESCO City of Music. Festivalgoers can also enjoy captivating performances by street entertainers, a variety of vendors, delicious offerings from food trucks, and much more.

Join us at PondFest for a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and connection—it’s the highlight of the summer in Hyde Park!

PondFest 2026 is a proud part of Forest City Music Week 2026

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Main Stage

Musical Performances are proudly sponsored by 3L – Leisure Learning Lab

Preston Pablo

Preston Pablo is one of Canada’s most streamed pop artists of his generation, amassing over 799 million global streams to date. The 2023 JUNO Award winner for Breakthrough Artist of the Year, he has since earned 2025 JUNO nominations for Pop Album of the Year and the fan-voted TikTok JUNO Award. His quadruple platinum breakout single “Flowers Need Rain” reached #1 at Adult/Pop radio and follow-up single “Dance Alone” hit Top 10 across all three Canadian radio formats.
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Get Real

Get Real is a 5-piece band#1 Hits ONLY band. Get Ready. Get Crazy. Get Real

Journeymen of Soul

The Journeymen of Soul is an energetic R&B, funk, and soul band known for providing charismatically delivered live performances that fill venues. Based in London, Ontario, they are recognized for playing in venues like the Wortley Roadhouse and participating in regional events such as PondFest 2026.

Eunice Keitan

Eunice Keitan is the sound of the Third Culture Kid. This Malaysian-Canadian Neo-Soul loop artist channels the complex feeling of navigating two worlds, fusing the smoothness of Neo-Soul with evocative, ancestral Asian soundscapes. Part live-looping innovator, part ensemble leader, she builds lush, deep, and layered narratives - songs that are emotionally candid about identity and belonging.

Warren Hargraves

Canadian country singer-songwriter Warren Hargraves mixes a smooth yet raspy voice into an appealing blend of Country, Rock and R&B. Born and raised in London, Ontario, he now lives in Komoka. He is a full-time musician sharing his passion with his two kids and wife. Warren has shared the bill with established acts like Arkells, Dierks Bentley, and Lady A. Warren has written over 1000 songs since 2015, as well as having the opportunity to play in Boots and Hearts 2025 as an emerging artist.

Community Performances

Community Performances are proudly sponsored by Unger’s Market.

En Avant Dance - 3:30 PM

At En Avant Dance, we believe that dance is not just about learning steps, but about self-expression, creativity, and personal growth. We strive to create an environment where our students can explore their passion for dance, develop their skills, and build friendships that will last a lifetime.

Devon the Uke Guy - 4:30 PM

Devon the Uke Guy is a Youtuber and musician known for playing and covering rock classics, as well as original songs, on the ukulele, piano, drums, and other instruments. Based in Ontario, he is a young musician who creates fun, energetic music videos and performs live, blending rock music with the ukulele.

Zing Education and Studio - Chinese Dance - 5:30 PM

Zing Education and Studio is a multidisciplinary arts centre in London, Ontario, that provides Chinese dance classes alongside art, piano, and music programs. Their dance curriculum focuses on teaching children various skills and they have received positive feedback for being a place children can learn and grow in a supportive environment.

SlavicRoots Ensemble - 7:00 PM

SlavicRoots Dance Ensemble exists to preserve and celebrate folk dance traditions while bringing a modern twist to folk movement through high-quality performances and educational programs. We envision a world where folk dance traditions continue to inspire and connect people across generations, reimagined through modern expression while honoring their origins.

Street Performers

Stilt Walkers

Look up! Our vibrant stilt walkers from INCIRQUE will be bringing larger-than-life energy to PondFest with interactive performances, playful character encounters, and plenty of photo-worthy moments throughout the day. Known for creating positive artistic experiences that bring communities together, INCIRQUE specializes in engaging entertainment for festivals and events across Ontario. Be sure to keep an eye out as these towering performers roam the festival grounds spreading smiles, laughter, and excitement for all ages!

Piano Unveilling

Join us at 3:30 PM for one of PondFest’s most special traditions — the annual Piano Unveiling & Portraits at the Piano! Celebrate this year’s beautifully transformed community piano as it is officially revealed to the public, followed by live music and the chance to snap your own portrait with this one-of-a-kind piece of functional art. It’s a memorable moment that brings together creativity, music, and community spirit in the heart of the festival.

Train Rides

All aboard! Hop on the PondFest train for a ride around the festival grounds from 1–7 PM. Fun for kids and families alike, these rides are offered by donation in support of the North West London Resource Centre (NWLRC). A perfect way to explore the festival while supporting a great local cause!

Giant LEGO Station

Get creative at our Giant LEGO Station from 1–7 PM! Build, play, and let your imagination run wild with hands-on fun for all ages. Whether you're constructing towering creations or just enjoying some casual playtime, this interactive area is perfect for kids, families, and LEGO lovers alike.
Sponsored by Spark Techies

Pony Rides

Enjoy a classic festival favourite with pony rides hosted by Behind The Bit Equestrian from 1–7 PM. Perfect for young animal lovers looking for a memorable experience at PondFest! Rides are $10 cash per rider.

Live Chalk Drawing

Watch art come to life throughout the day with live chalk creations by Bronagh Morgan! Bronagh is a visual and performance artist known for her stunning custom chalk artworks, painted murals, collaborative canvases, and commissioned pieces for businesses, organizations, and special events. Be sure to stop by and see her transforming the pavement into vibrant works of art right before your eyes.
Sponsored by Sherwood Forest Mall

Hammerlock Pure Wrestling

Get ready for high-energy action with Hammerlock Pure Wrestling from 1:30–3 PM! Bringing excitement, athleticism, and entertainment to fans across Southwestern Ontario, Hammerlock Pure Wrestling delivers fun for both longtime wrestling fans and first-time spectators alike. Don’t miss the thrills, smackdowns, and larger-than-life personalities live at PondFest!

Miss T The Bubble Queen

Prepare to be amazed by the magical world of bubbles with Miss T the Bubble Queen! A master bubbleologist with over 18 years of experience, Miss T brings laughter, artistry, and giant bubble magic to audiences of all ages. Featuring incredible bubble creations, playful comedy, and mesmerizing tricks, this bubblerrific show is one of Canada’s most unique and delightful family performances.
Showtimes: 2 PM, 3:30 PM, and 5 PM.

Laser Show

Experience the magic of PondFest’s spectacular Laser Light Show, a one-of-a-kind event in London that will leave you mesmerized.

As the only laser light show in the city, PondFest brings together cutting-edge technology and artistic creativity to create a captivating visual extravaganza.

Prepare to be dazzled as vibrant beams of light dance across the night sky, synchronized with a carefully curated soundtrack that sets the mood for an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a fan of music and technology, or simply enjoy immersive visual spectacles, the Laser Light Show at PondFest is a must-see event!

VENDORS

Blue Jay Tent

Duck Tent

Fish Tent

Frog Tent

Goose Tent

Heron Tent

Turtle Tent

Food Vendors

Beer Garden

Community Corner

Parking & Shuttle Information

Parking is available at WestPark Church, located at 955 Gainsborough Road. Follow the marked path back to PondFest.

Parking is also available in the community.

THERE IS NO ON-SITE PARKING AVAILABLE.

Unfortunately there is no on-site parking, accessible included.

There is an accessible drop-off location at the municipal water station at 1617 Hyde Park Road. 

 

We are also working towards a drop off lane for the event.

Yes! Courtesy of Oxford Dodge, there is a free shuttle taking attendees from Westpark Church to the event space every 15 minutes.

FAQ

PondFest is the Hyde Park BIA’s signature summer celebration.

The event centres around the unveiling of our annual community piano — a collaborative art project painted by students from Oakridge Secondary School. Each year, students spend a semester designing and painting a piano that tells a unique story, which is unveiled during the festival and left in the park for public enjoyment all summer long.

PondFest takes place at Hyde Park Village Green, located at 1695 Hyde Park Road, in London, Ontario.

 

PondFest begins at 1:00 PM and wraps up after the laser show at approximately 10:15 PM.

We strive to make PondFest as accessible as possible. Please note the event is hosted in a City of London park, and while many areas are accessible, some surfaces may be challenging for certain mobility devices.

Yes, portable washrooms — including accessible units — will be available on site

  • Main Parking: WestPark Church – 955 Gainsborough Road. Follow the marked path directly to the event.

  • Additional Parking: Available in the surrounding community.

Note: There is no on-site general parking at Hyde Park Village Green.

Yes! PondFest is pet-friendly. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.

Absolutely! We’ll have a delicious variety of food trucks and stalls on site — including options for halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, and more.


Beer and wine will also be available for sale in our licensed area.

Yes. PondFest is a licensed event. Alcoholic beverages will be available for sale in designated areas.

 

Yes, but we encourage supporting our on-site vendors. No outside alcohol is permitted.

Some vendors may be cash-only. We recommend bringing cash, as no ATM will be available on site

No — PondFest is completely free to attend! We do encourage guests to bring a donation of a non-perishable food item or sanitary product to support the Northwest London Resource Centre.

 

Definitely! From 1:00–7:00 PM, enjoy family-focused programming including inflatables, interactive activities, street performances, and more — all courtesy of our amazing community partners.

 

Yes! In addition to family fun, we’ve got live musicstreet performersshopping from over 75 local vendors, and our beer and wine garden for attendees 19+

We encourage attendees to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. Limited seating will be available near the stage and activity areas.

Our spectacular laser light show begins at the conclusion of our headliner’s performance — approximately 10:00 PM.

A laser light show is a dazzling display of coloured laser beams and graphic effects set to music. Our show runs approximately 15 minutes and is sure to end the night with a bang!

PondFest is a rain-or-shine event. In the case of severe weather, certain activities may be delayed, relocated, or cancelled for safety. Follow us on social media, @hydeparkbia, for the latest updates.

We’d love your help! If you’re interested in volunteering with the Hyde Park BIA, send us an email at info@hydeparkbusiness.com.

If you run a licensed food truck and are interested in attending, please reach out to us at info@hydeparkbusiness.com.

Vendor applications open at the end of January right here on our website. Stay tuned!

 

You can call us at 226-636-0622 or email us at info@hydeparkbusiness.com.

Our Sponsors

Title Sponsor

Music Sponsor

COMMUNITY
PERFORMANCE SPONSOR

LIVE CHALK DRAWING SPONSOR

LEGO SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSORS

This event is made possible with In Kind Support from