NEXT FEST 2026
Next Fest is a youth-powered arts festival celebrating creativity, community, and the next generation of artists.
Monday, February 16 (Family Day) in Scarborough
Next Fest is a multidisciplinary arts festival showcasing the talent, voices, and ideas of youth. The festival highlights emerging creatives across visual art, music, performance, digital media, and more, while creating opportunities for connection, collaboration, and leadership.
Rooted in community, Next Fest centres youth voices and reflects the creativity happening right now.
What Is Next Fest?
Next Generation Arts is looking for youth performers to take part in Next Fest! This is a paid opportunity to perform on our main stage from 1–4 PM. We welcome musicians, dancers, spoken word poets, comedians, and other live performers.
Eligibility:
Youth aged 14–29
From or based in Scarborough, Ontario
Experience performing live
Excited to share your craft and connect with your community
Performance length: 5–10 minutes (TBC if accepted)
Tech: Audio/visual tech provided; please bring your own instruments if needed
Application closes: Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Open Call: Performers
We are also seeking artists, crafters, small businesses, makers, and community services to join Next Fest. A table and chair will be provided for free (food vendors not accepted for this edition).
Eligibility:
Youth aged 14–29, or organizations serving youth
From or based in Scarborough, Ontario
Excited to share your craft, products, or services and connect with the community
Festival time: 1–4 PM
Application closes: Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Open Call: vendors
Who It’s For
Next Fest is open to youth, artists, creatives, vendors, and community members who believe in the power of art to bring people together. Whether you’re sharing your work or coming to support, you belong here.
Why Next Fest Matters
At Next Generation Arts, we believe youth deserve accessible spaces to create, lead, and be heard. Next Fest celebrates youth creativity while supporting the next generation of artists, arts leaders, and cultural changemakers.
Questions? Contact projects@nextgenerationarts.ca
If you’re interested in volunteering with Next Generation Arts, please complete this form so we can learn more about your interests, skills, and availability. This information helps us better understand who is interested and how volunteer opportunities may align.
Volunteering at Next Fest offers an opportunity to support a youth-led arts festival, gain experience in arts and event support, and connect with your local community.
Volunteer Eligibility:
Youth aged 14–29
From or based in Scarborough, Ontario
Interested in arts, events, community engagement, or youth leadership
Available on Monday, February 16, 2026
Festival Time: 1–4 PM
Application Closes: Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our team.