Art that connects, inspires, and celebrates the heart of our community.

CAHEP Community Art Programs

Art in the Community

Our Community Arts Program includes several streams that provide free, multidisciplinary arts programming for children, youth, adults, Elders, and seniors. These programs are offered in partnership with neighbourhood organizations, community groups, and cultural associations in areas of Thunder Bay where access to the arts is often limited.

Across every stream, participants build confidence, strengthen social inclusion, and experience the power of community through co-creation and teamwork. Just as important, our programs nurture creativity and creative thinking skills, which are recognized around the world as essential competencies for the twenty-first century.

CAHEP’s Community Arts Programs bring people together through joyful, hands-on experiences. Events like the Teddy Bear Picnic, Kite Festival, Culture Days, and Winter Fundays transform local spaces into places of connection, celebration, and creative exploration. Each moment reflects the stories and imagination of our community, making the arts accessible and meaningful for everyone.

Community Program Highlights

Children and families painting teddy bear crafts together outdoors during CAHEP’s Teddy Bear Picnic event.
A Day of Imagination and Play for Families

Teddy Bear Picnic

The Teddy Bear Picnic is a beloved community tradition where families gather for a day of storytelling, creativity, and hands-on artmaking. CAHEP artists lead fun, accessible activities for children of all ages, turning the park into a colourful space filled with imagination and teamwork. It is a gentle and joyful celebration of childhood, community, and creative play.

A City-Wide Adventure in Creativity

Art Of The Mushroom

Art of the Mushroom invites the community to explore creativity through a playful, city-wide scavenger hunt. Local artists create hand-painted mushroom sculptures that are hidden throughout Thunder Bay for families to discover, celebrate, and share. It is a joyful blend of art, exploration, and community connection that brings people together in surprising and imaginative ways.

Families exploring mushroom-themed artwork at the Art of the Mushroom community event in Thunder Bay.
Children painting snow-themed art projects at CAHEP’s Winter Fun Days program.
Creativity and Connection in the Heart of Winter

Winter Fun Days

Winter Fun Days bring bright colour and joyful artmaking to the snowy season. CAHEP artists lead hands-on activities for families, turning chilly afternoons into lively moments of creativity and community. From painting to simple crafts, each workshop invites children and caregivers to explore, imagine, and play together in a welcoming winter setting.

Want to hear about future events?

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