‘A true homage to our citizens’: Old Home Week to bring parades, concerts and reunions to Smiths Falls Aug. 2 – 9

Old Home Week is coming back to Smiths Falls from Aug. 2 to 9, 2025 — marking the first time the town has hosted the festival in a quarter-century.

First held in 1925 as an invitation for former residents to return for a week of reunions and celebrations, the event has since been held in 1950, 1976 and 2000. Organizers say this year’s edition will be the biggest one yet.

Despite its name, the festival is not about heritage houses. The week will feature a wide range of activities, including an opening parade, a nightshirt parade, a drone show with local narrators, and Riverbank Musicfest in the Victory Homes neighbourhood. Other highlights include a Wellnessfest, Floatfest on the Rideau Canal, and a farewell outdoor concert.

The town will also host dances, sporting events, historical tours and vendor markets throughout the week.

“This proud town event is a true homage to our citizens, past, present and future as well as a heartfelt tribute to our rich history! The 8-day event will be filled with unforgettable experiences for both young and old,” said committee co-chair Christa Dales-Donnelly.

The organizing committee is encouraging residents to share the news with family and friends as the town gets ready to welcome former residents and first-time visitors.

Details and full event listings are available at oldhomeweek.com and on the event’s Facebook page.