Award-Winning Storytelling Slam Night returns for Culture Days 2026

For immediate release (Sept. 10, 2026) – Stories can be told in many ways, and the City of Orillia and community partners invite residents to share theirs at the free award-winning Storytelling Slam Night on Friday, Oct. 2 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Family Department at the Orillia Public Library.

“Storytelling Slam Night is a great opportunity for residents to experience the creativity in our community and to share their own stories,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “Whether you choose to perform or come out to enjoy the evening, there are many ways to take part in this year’s Culture Days celebration.”

Last year’s Storytelling Slam Night received the 2025 Spotlight Award for Best Participatory Program from Culture Days Ontario. Back by popular demand, Storytelling Slam Night returns for Culture Days 2026, bringing together local artists, community groups and residents for an evening celebrating creativity and connection. The evening features free hands-on creative activities and exhibitions, followed by performances and presentations from local artists and community groups.

Share your story

Everyone is invited to take the stage and share a story, poem, song, dance, performance or other creative work. Performers will have up to five minutes on stage, with a microphone provided. A pre-registered storytelling showcase will be followed by an open mic, giving attendees an opportunity to share something spontaneously.

Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged to secure a spot in the showcase. Registration closes at noon on Monday, Sept. 28. Performers are responsible for bringing any additional materials or equipment needed.

An evening of creativity

The evening will feature a range of activities and presentations, including:

• Creative Youth Lab: Explore animation, 3D modelling and digital collage with Arts Orillia from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• Something From Home: Explore an exhibition featuring visual representations of what home means to Lakehead University’s international students from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
• Bookmarks & Buttons: Create a custom bookmark or button using materials from the Orillia Public Library’s Makerspace from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
• Mosaic Mural: View a community mosaic mural created by North Simcoe Arts and community members from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
• Opening remarks will take place at 6:30 p.m.
• The Threads That Bind Us: Enjoy a mini fashion walk featuring Afro-Caribbean styles and stories, presented by the Orillia & Area Black Community Association, from 6:50 to 7:05 p.m.
• Season Sneak Peek: Enjoy a monologue from Macbeth and a song from Hedwig and the Angry Inch, presented by Mariposa Arts Theatre, from 7:10 to 7:25 p.m.
• Stories and Open Mic: Experience personal stories, spoken word, music, dance, art and more from 7:40 to 8:30 p.m.

“Storytelling Slam Night is a great example of what Culture Days is all about, giving people the opportunity to participate, try something new and experience the talent that exists right here in our community,” said Allie Bradford, Culture Coordinator. “Whether you have a story you’ve been waiting to share or simply want to come out and support local performers, there is a place for everyone at this event.”

Storytelling Slam Night is presented in partnership with the City of Orillia, Arts Orillia, Mariposa Arts Theatre, North Simcoe Arts, the Orillia & Area Black Community Association, Lakehead University and the Orillia Public Library.

For more information about Storytelling Slam Night, the full schedule and performer registration, visit orillia.ca/culturedays.

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About Culture Days

Culture Days is a national celebration of arts and culture that invites people to participate in free arts and culture activities in communities across the country. Culture Days 2026 runs from Sept. 18 to Oct. 4, with events taking place in communities across Canada. Visit culturedays.ca to learn more.