City of Brantford, in partnership with the Brantford Youth Council (BYC), is hosting a series of events and activities for youth in celebration of National Youth Week May 1 to 7, 2026. National Youth Week provides an opportunity to involve local youth in areas of civic engagement and recreation through events and activities developed by the City and Brantford Youth Council.
“This week is about acknowledging the impact and important role young people play in building Brantford’s future. Through civic engagement, the arts, sports, and more, youth are contributing to today while also helping shape tomorrow,” said Ruby Sanghera, leader of the Brantford Youth Council Communications and Marketing Subcommittee.
To mark Youth Week 2026, residents of all ages are invited to attend a flag raising ceremony in Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie St, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 4 p.m. with members of the Brantford Youth Council and City representatives.
“We are pleased to once again offer an exciting line up of activities at Woodman Park Community Centre during youth week. We invite Brantford teens to get active, be social and discover the many benefits Woodman has to offer,” added Kim Rolson, Community Recreation Supervisor, Woodman Park Community Centre, City of Brantford.
The City of Brantford and BYC are pleased to present the fourth annual Brantford Youth Excellence Awards on Monday, May 11 at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts. The event begins at 6 p.m. with youth visual art displays, and a youth makers market in the lobby. From 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the City of Brantford Youth Leadership Development Program Graduation and the Brantford Youth Excellence Awards will take place on stage, including performances by local youth musicians. Headline performers Superstar Crush will take the stage at 8:30 p.m. to close out the evening. All youth ages 13 to 18, along with their families, are welcome to attend. Registration is encouraged at Brantford.ca/YouthWeek.
Youth Week Events and Activities
- Board Game Social at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Carnegie Hall Room 100 (73 George Street, basement floor) on Friday, May 1 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Ages 13 to 18. Bring your own board game to share and enjoy bubble tea.
- Volleyball Tournament at Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre gymnasium on Saturday, May 2 beginning at 12:45 p.m. Team of 6-8 player ages 13 to 18. Creative team uniforms encouraged. Must register in advance by April 24 at Brantford.ca/YouthWeek.
- Free Cooking for YOUth Class at Woodman Community Centre on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Ages 11 to 17. Register at www.Brantford.ca/ACTIVEnet or by calling 519-759-4150 ext. 5079.
- Drop-in Game Night at Woodman Community Centre on Monday, May 4 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Ages 11 to 17.
- Paint Your Own Pottery Workshop at PawTastic Pottery Studio (10 Stanley Street) on Tuesday, May 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ages 11 to 17. Pre-register your attendance online at www.Brantford.ca/ACTIVEnet or by calling 519-759-4150 ext. 5079.
- Intergenerational Story Exchange Event at Brantford Public Library St. Paul Branch (491 Grey Street) on Wednesday, May 6 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Registration required at Brantford.ca/YouthWeek.
“Our young people are shaping the future of our community through their ideas, compassion and commitment. Youth Week and the Brantford Youth Excellence Awards are a time to recognize the young people who are making a difference in our community. Their passion and leadership continue to strengthen our community and inspire us all,” said Kevin Davis, Mayor for the City of Brantford.
Brantford youth are encouraged to participate in additional drop-in programs at Woodman Community Centre free of charge, with the exception of Woodman After Dark. Throughout the week, youth can participate in open gym, basketball, pickleball, badminton, and W Lounge. To view schedules, register and to learn more, visit brantford.ca/YouthWeek.
