Summer Programs

The City of Brantford is thrilled to offer free programs to the community this year!  Harmony Square has many community favourites and a couple new features  this year and we are excited to continue to offer free programming this summer. 

Bring your swim suit and cool down in the Harmony Square splash pad.  

Summer programs (July/August 2024)

Roller Skate in the Square

Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

  • Registration is onsite only.
  • July 8 to August 28  (No programming on Monday, August 5)

Kickin’ it old school! Let’s get movin’ and groovin’, for a summer roller skate in the Square, with a live D.J.

Retro Rollers skate rentals available on-site ($10.00 per pair to rent. Debit and credit will be available). Sizes range from J12 to adult size 15.

Proudly sponsored by Downtown Brantford BIA.

Roller Rink Rules

  • Helmets and safety gear are strongly recommended
  • Roller skaters must all skate in the same direction as others at all times.
  • Please refrain from carrying your child on the roller rink
  • Extreme speed/racing while roller skating is not permitted
  • No food and drink allowed on the roller rink
  • Headsets, cell phones and hand held electronic devices are not permitted
  • No horseplay, games or sports permitted
  • Stunts, tricks and/or roller skating backwards is not permitted

Roller Skate in Harmony Square

Character Meet and Greet 

Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Bringing magic to life in Harmony Square! Say hello to a different Glass Slipper Company character weekly, sponsored by GrandBridge Energy. Children will also have the opportunity to colour a colouring page photo of the character, and have it autographed! Photos can be taken. In the event of rain, this magical experience will be moved into the lobby at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts at 88 Dalhousie Street.

  • July 9: Rose Princess
  • July 16: Sleeping Princess
  • July 23: Spider Hero
  • July 30: Mermaid Princess
  • August 6: Desert Princess
  • August 13: Fairest Princess
  • Aug 20: Snow Queen
  • Aug 27: Miracle Keeper and Flower Sister

Character Meet and Greet

Fitness in the Square

Harmony Square is teaming up with Laurier Brantford YMCA to offer free fitness classes! See below for class dates and times.

If it is raining the class will be moved into the YMCA building (100 Water St). Just tell the front desk that you are there for Fitness in the Square and they can direct you. 

Mondays from 7:15 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (July 8 to August 26) (No program on August 7)

  • HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training): when you're short on time but want an effective, full body workout that will leave you breathless, High Intensity Interval Training is your answer. HIIT workouts have been proven to improve your fitness level with a shorter workout. Bursts of cardiovascular and conditioning exercises are coupled with active rest periods. You'll work hard, but at your own intensity level - suitable for all fitness enthusiasts.

Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. (July 9 to August 27)

  • Yoga: rediscover and improve your strength, balance, and flexibility through traditional yoga postures. A YMCA Yoga class will help you relax your mind while gently challenging, stretching, and relaxing your muscles. Don't worry if you're not flexible: yoga is safe and healthy for a wide range of body types. You’ll soon notice a stronger, more balanced body and an increase in your overall feeling of health and vitality.

Wednesdays from 7:15 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (July 10 to August 28)

  • BodyFit: gently stretch and tone your whole body in this well-rounded class. Work at your own pace and maintain your strength while improving your flexibility.
    Build stronger muscles, bones, and joints with weight-bearing exercises designed to challenge your strength & balance

Fridays from  7:15 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (July 12 to August 30)

  • CardioFit: this class offers you variety in one workout including sport conditioning, step, high/low moves and kickboxing. Prepare to sweat! Tone your muscles and build your cardio capacity in this choreographed workout with high impact moves and low impact modifications. Cardio Fit may include a variety of movements from different styles of workouts, such as boxing, step, dance, and sports conditioning.

Important information:

  • Bring your own water bottle, yoga mat and/or towel to each class
  • No previous experience is required. There will be many options provided so that all fitness levels can enjoy the class
  • Classes will be instructed by canfitpro certified Fitness Instructor
  • Always consult a qualified medical professional before beginning any exercise program
  • Must be 14 years of age or older to attend
Yoga in the Square

Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. (July 18 to August 29)

Harmony Square is teaming up with Kathy Brown Yoga to bring you Yoga in the Square on Thursday mornings throughout the summer. Bring your yoga mat and water and get ready for an engaging morning.

Important information:

  • Bring your own water bottle, yoga mat and/or towel to each class
  • No previous experience is required. There will be many options provided so that all fitness levels can enjoy the class
  • Classes will be instructed by canfitpro certified Fitness Instructor
  • Always consult a qualified medical professional before beginning any exercise program
  • Must be 14 years of age or older to attend

Fitness in the Square

Music in the Square

Fridays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (July 12 to August 30)

Enjoy the smooth sounds of good music performed outdoors presented by TD Bank Group. Each week will be a show you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget your lawn chair.

  • July 7: Telephone City Musical Society (Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
    Enjoy music for the whole family from big band, Disney to today's popular music!
  • July 12: Elvis in the Square (7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.)
    Featuring The Casino Brother with Connor Russo
    Canada's leading 50's Elvis Tribute artists brings you the energy and authenticity of Elvis' early years.
  • July 19: Dancing under the Stars Join Corner Pocket, the seven-piece dance band, along with the Art In Motion dance instructors Kelly and Brian Sloat for an evening of great music, dancing and some fun Ballroom instruction.
  • July 26: Avalon Music Academy
    Come celebrating the 150th anniversary of the telephone with us.
  • August 2: Fresh Water Funk
    Come down and enjoy this 8-piece rock, soul, and funk band featuring a variety of fun, danceable music from artists like Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Chicago, Tower of Power, Blues Brother, and more! The band also has multiple talented composers and loves the opportunity to play their original funk fusion music!
  • August 4: Brantford Community Symphony Orchestra (Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
    Join us for a light program perfect for Sunday summer listening.
  • August 9: Highbanks Bluegrass Band
    If you’re looking to do some hootin’, hollerin’, and toe tappin’, be sure to come out and catch these boys for some southern flavour
  • August 16: True Rodeo
    Canada’s truest Blue Rodeo experience, playing all your Blue Rodeo favourites with beautiful vocal and superb musicianship! 
  • August 23: Checkerboard Floors
    Checkerboard Floors plays music you dance to!
  • August 25: The Academy of Music and Performance with Last Man Standing (Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
    Student performances supported by Last Man Standing, playing feel good covers and originals.
  • August 30: Caribbean Kyle
    Enjoy a mix of style from Caribbean beach songs, reggae, country to classic rock with influences by Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, The Zac Brown Band, Elton John, etc....

Proudly sponsored by TD.

Music in the Square

Movies in the Square

Thursdays starting at dusk (July 11 to August 29)

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy a movie under the stars in Harmony Square!

Join us for pre-show activities and a movie on the big screen starting at dusk. Popcorn and sweet treats will be available for purchase.

Follow us on Facebook to answer the weekly trivia poll. The winner will receive VIP treatment, two drinks and two bags of popcorn donated by Downtown Central Neighbourhood Association and front row Muskoka Chairs. 

If the movie is cancelled, there is no carry over for the front row seats; you will still receive two drinks and two bags of popcorn.

Go green and receive a free popcorn out of it! We are offering 1 free popcorn to each person who rides their bike to Movies in the Square this year.

Popcorn, drinks and other goodies can be purchased on site through Downtown Central Neighbourhood Association. Proceeds go towards Gifts of the Heart.Help our community by contributing a non-perishable food item each week, as we unite to combat hunger and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. Additional donations can be made onsite at the concession booth or through this link https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-feed-kids-in-need.

  • July 11: Nightmare Before Christmas
    Celebrate Christmas in July. Sponsored by: The Cooperators McMillan Insurance
    Pre-show entertainment by Freedom House starts at 8:30 p.m.
  • July 18: Shrek (2001)
    Join the ogre army; come dressed in green. Sponsored by: Lansdowne
    Pre-show entertainment by Lansdowne
  • July 25: Trolls Band Together
    Wear your wackiest hair. Sponsored by: West Brant Window World
    Pre-show entertainment by Studio 5.6.7.8. starts at 8:45 p.m.
  • August 1: Elemental
    Get creative with the elemental wonders of the planet; earth, air, fire, and water. Sponsored by: Lansdowne
    Pre-show entertainment by Lansdowne
  • August 8: DC League of Super Pets
    Dress as your favourite animal. Sponsored by: Brantford Fire
    Pre-show entertainment by Wee Watch starts at 8:00 p.m
  • August 15: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
    Cowabung Dude! Sponsored by: The Brant County Health Unit
    Pre-show entertainment by Family Gathering starts at 8:15 p.m.
    Pizza will be available for purchase on site, while supplies last. 
  • August 22: Wonka (2023)
    Tonight theme is sweet treats; make sure you bring down your favourite. Sponsored by: Hudson Public
    Pre-show entertainment by Just Dance starts at 8:00 p.m.
  • August 29: Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3
    Come dressed as your favourite superhero. Sponsored by: Millards Chartered Professional Accountants

Thank you to all the Movies in the Square sponsors!

Movies in the Square

Chess in the Square

Tuesday and Thursdays from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. (July 9 to August 29)

Join the Brantford Chess Club for an afternoon of recreational chess. No previous experience required.

Chess Tournaments to be held on Sunday, July 21 and August 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. To participate in the tournament, or for more information, please email brantchessca@gmail.com.

Chess in the Square

Playdate in the Square

Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. (July 10 to August 28)

Join the Brantford Public Library for an outdoor playdate in Harmony Square. Every week we’ll be bringing giant games, bubbles and more. This program will run weather-permitting.

Fun in the Sun with Family Gathering

Mondays from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (July 15 to August 26) (No program on August 5)

Join Family Gathering Urban EarlyOn (519-720-0448) on a new day and time for crafts, physical activity, science experiments, sensory, painting and Indigenous Cultural education!

HipFest *NEW DATE*

NEW DATE: Saturday, August 31 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The popular outdoor rock concert HipFest returns to celebrate the music and legacy of The Tragically Hip, and is presented by Hudson Public - Kitchen and Bar. Attendees are invited to bring a lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music performed by headliner 50 Mission and The Surgically Hip which is presented by the Downtown Brantford BIA.

The Surgically Hip is Canada’s newest tribute band celebrating the legacy of The Tragically Hip. The high energy band consists of front-man Joe Cuscianna, and John Keffer on guitar and background vocals, Eric Newby on guitar, Frank Baraczka on drums and percussion and Ken Purvis on bass. This performance is presented by Downtown Brantford BIA. The Surgically Hip will take the stage at 7 p.m.

50 Mission is a local Brantford band that performs the greatest hits of The Tragically Hip with polish and passion with a lead vocalist that has a “Gord Downie” style voice that is second to none. Fans agree, it will be like listening to your favourite album with this authentic sounding Tragically Hip tribute band. 50 Mission will take the stage at 8:30 p.m.

Support local at the on-site marketplace where a variety of vendors and artisans will be selling a variety of goodies. Delicious food and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available to purchase throughout the evening.

Free parking is available on Saturday at the Market Centre Parkade located at 59 Icomm Drive. Brantford Transit is also available to attendees looking for transportation to Harmony Square with the main terminal conveniently located only one block away. You can find schedules, routes and rates online at www.Brantford.ca/Transit.

Sponsored by Hudson Public Kitchen & BarDowntown Brantford BIAWest Brant Window World

band playing for HipFest

Courtyard Concert Series

Friday, July 19, 26, and August 9, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The series kicks-off on Friday, July 19 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a double performance featuring Mo Guzman and Spitty. Everyone is sure to enjoy their energetic performance, filled with soulful melodies and catchy beats. It’s the perfect midday escape to recharge and unwind.

On Friday, July 26 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., Mackenzie Leigh Myer will captivate the audience with her soul-stirring vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Her performance promises to be a delightful addition to your lunchtime routine, offering a moment of relaxation and inspiration.

Be sure to mark your calendars for Friday, August 9 12:00p.m. to 1:00 p.m., for another enchanting performance from  by Khea Emmanuel. Known for her dynamic voice and engaging stage presence, Khea’s music will undoubtedly elevate your lunch hour and leave you feeling refreshed for the afternoon ahead.

The Courtyard Concert Series in Harmony Square provides an opportunity to enjoy the cultural richness that our community has to offer. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, or simply looking to break away from the day-to-day, we hope you take some time to enjoy the delightful escape into the world of live music.

Join us in Harmony Square for an unforgettable musical experience. Let the melodies of Mo Guzman and Spitty, Mackenzie Leigh Myer, and Khea Emmanuel serenade you this summer. 

Courtyard Concert Series at a glance:

  • Friday, July 19: Mo Guzman and Spitty from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • Friday, July 26: Mackenzie Leigh Myer from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Friday, August 9: Khea Emmanuel from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Hometown Hero Concert

Saturday, August 24, 2024, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

You’re invited to a free live outdoor concert in Brantford’s Harmony Square (89 Dalhousie Street) to recognize the amazing first responders that selflessly commit themselves to serving their communities. Don’t miss Andrew Irving perform his heartfelt tribute song ‘Hometown Heroes’ to recognize those that are committed to improving the quality of life in our community.

Contact us

You can call us or email us for more information.