The fourth PRAISE THE WARD Festival will be on September 19th, 2026! Tickets will go on sale in summer!

We're urgently looking for a food coordinator, and a technical director to join our steering committee.  Read more here and let us know how you like to get involved! 

Praise The Ward is an annual celebration of Guelph's most unique neighbourhood. We're entirely volunteer-driven by keen Wardians who invite everyone to this compelling day of music, art, theatre, spoken word, kid's activities, and much more!

This festival is a volunteer-run not-for-profit organization, and the proceeds from the tickets go towards expenses like compensating artists, equipment rentals, printing costs, etc. Thank you for your support!

The Ward

The unique and historic part of Guelph bordered by Elizabeth, Victoria, and the Eramosa River has become a vibrant and creative centre for artists and innovators.  

A remarkable group of those Ward creatives will gather to share the wonders of  their ‘hood in a colourful festival, making use of different venues, all easily walkable or bikeable.  

Music, activities, meeting neighbours and visitors from near and far and more will make this a day to remember.     

New since 2024:

Two Rivers Neighbourhood Group

We're working closely together with The Two Rivers Neighbourhood Group, The Ward's own community branch of the Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition. With their support you'll be able to get a tax receipt if you donate to this volunteer-driven festival, and they'll help animate the great Ward spaces at Tytler School and the Huron Community Garden. We're grateful!