Presented by Fort William Business District BIAFuel YourSummerAt TheSouth CoreRoar.
Experience Thunder Bay's ultimate multigenerational, multicultural, celebration of music, muscle and motors. From roaring custom bikes and classic cars to jaw-dropping feats of strength, live main stage bands, Indigenous heritage and kids zone. This free multi-block party brings all generations together in the heart of the historic Fort William Business District.
Gates Open • August 1, 2026 • 10:00 AM ET
This Event is proudly supported by
Aug 1–2, 2026 · Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay's biggest car, bike & music festival
South Core Roar is a free, two-day street festival in the heart of Thunder Bay's Fort William Business District. Wander 100+ classic, custom and vintage cars, up to 200 motorcycles at the Bike & Shine, live bands until 11pm, multicultural and Indigenous performances, a strongman competition, a kids' zone, food trucks and local crafts.
Looking for things to do in Thunder Bay on the August long weekend? Admission is free, all ages, rain or shine — one of Northern Ontario's largest summer events, presented by the Fort William Business District BIA.
Exhibitor & Ride Registration
Show your ride.
From $15 (bikes) / $20 (cars) / $50 CAD (Friendship Ride). Flat rate pricing.
Classic, Custom & Antique Cars
Got a classic, custom or antique? Show it off.
Up to 100 spots along Miles Street. Compete for People's Choice, Best in Show, Best Pre-1970, Best Paint, and more.
Motorcycle Exhibitors
Bike & shine. Bring the loudest.
Up to 200 bikes along Justice Avenue. Prizes for Best Custom, Cruiser, Sport, Loudest Pipes, and Best Vintage.
Friday July 31 — Pre-Event
The Friendship Ride
One ride, two nations. Cruise from Ryden's Border Store to Thunder Bay, ON. Open to classic/custom cars and motorcycles.
Stages & Zones
Explore the Roar.
Everything is within easy walking distance end-to-end.
Music Stage
Live Rock & Tribute Bands
Live bands and regional artists on the main stage.
Multicultural
Culture & Celebration
Cultural performances, global food, and community celebrations.
Indigenous Learning Circle
Heritage & Storytelling
Indigenous heritage, stories, and cultural experiences.
Classic, Custom & Antique Cars
Vintage & Custom Wheels
Show-quality classics, customs, and antiques on display.
Strong Person Competition
Feats of Strength
Jaw-dropping feats of strength and athletic competition.
Motorcycles / Bike & Shine
Custom & Vintage Bikes
Custom bikes, chrome, and the loudest pipes around.
Kids Zone
Family-Friendly Fun
Family-friendly activities, games, and entertainment for all ages.
Food
Gourmet Street Food
Food trucks, BBQ, and local flavours from across the region.
Crafts & Activities
Artisan Marketplace
Artisan vendors, hands-on crafts, and interactive experiences.
Tap the map to view it full size.
Vendors
Sell to thousands of weekend visitors.
Food vendors, retail booths, artisan markets. Limited spots — applications close July 15 or when full.
Apply Now →Sponsorship
Put your brand in the middle of the roar.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Grant Funders
On behalf of the Fort William Business District BIA and the Southcore Roar organizing committee, we extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible grant funders supporting the inaugural South Core Roar festival.
As a committee, your investment does so much more than just cover costs—it empowers us to bring a bold, safe, and entirely free two-day community event to life. Because of your trust and financial support, our team has the resources needed to coordinate seamless logistics, build accessible spaces, and champion local talent, vendors, and programming.
"You are the engine behind our vision, helping us drive economic revitalization and celebrate the vibrant spirit of our community. We couldn’t do this without you!"
The Roar App
Plan your schedule, vote in the People's Choice awards, collect zone stamps in the Roar Passport, and get real-time event updates — live now for South Core Roar and expanding to future Thunder Bay events.
Installs to your home screen — no app store needed.
Don't miss it.
Get the headliner announcement, schedule drops, and parking tips before everyone else.