London Forest Fest brings Family Fun to Westminster Ponds this September
September 22, 2026
A day of creativity, community, and all things trees is coming to Westminster Ponds with the London Forest Fest, an event hosted by the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) and the City of London.
The free public festival takes place during National Forest week, on Saturday, September 26, from 10 am to 2 pm. Visitors will enjoy forestry-themed activities, birds of prey shows, chainsaw carving demonstrations, guided hikes, a native plant and seed exchange, and more.
Community members are invited to join an Indigenous opening ceremony led by Anishinaabe Elder Mary Lou Smoke at 10 am. It will be a great opportunity to gather in reflection and gratitude.
The UTRCA and City of London will be joined by many community groups and organizations who will be highlighting the importance of trees and forests through interactive booths.
A full schedule of events will be posted to the UTRCA website: thamesriver.on.ca/event/london-forest-fest
“London Forest Fest will be a fun event where people can come together to celebrate and learn about trees and forests and how they benefit our lives. The venue of Westminster Ponds is the largest publicly owned Environmentally Significant Area in London. This area is significant for its size and for its great variety of natural habitats within the boundaries of a major urban centre,” said Linda Smith, festival organizer and Community Partnerships Specialist with the UTRCA.
“We are happy to once again partner with the UTRCA on this free community event that celebrates our trees and forests,” says Shawna Chamber, Director, Climate Change, Environment & Waste Management. “As the 2026 Forest Capital of Canada, this event is a great opportunity to celebrate London’s long-standing identity as ‘The Forest City’ and showcase our continued leadership in caring for our urban forest and natural spaces.”
Come celebrate the forests that make London a greener, healthier and more vibrant place, and discover the people and organizations helping them thrive!
Community members are encouraged to follow the Facebook event for more information and updates.
Media Contacts:
Linda Smith
Community Partnerships Specialist, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority ([email protected] or 519-451-2800 ext. 224)
Tom Cull
Community Partnerships Specialist, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority ([email protected] or 519-451-2800 ext. 332)
