All public events held on municipal property are required to have a Special Event Permit and meet City requirements to ensure a safe and successful event for all involved.
Organizers who would like to plan a public event must first contact the City's Special Events Office at 705-739-4285 or events@barrie.ca. Staff are happy to provide information about the permit process and what may be required to host an event on municipal property.
Effective April 30, 2026, the province’s expanded “Bring-Your-Own" permit introduces an additional licensing option, but does not change the City’s existing authority, by-laws, or event permitting framework. Alcohol consumption in parks and at outdoor event spaces remains prohibited unless properly authorized through an approved City of Barrie Special Events Permit. Read the April 2026 memo to Council.
2027 Event Proposals
Thinking of hosting a new event on municipal property in 2027? Please reach out to events@barrie.ca for information.
Note: the deadline to submit a proposal for a returning annual event was October 30, 2026.
Event Proposal Review
Event proposals are vetted by Barrie's Event Action Team (BEAT), which includes representatives from Recreation & Culture Services, Operations (Parks & Roads), Parks Planning, Enforcement Services, and the Barrie Police Service. Events are considered on a case-by-case basis and are permitted upon approval from BEAT and completion of all permit requirements.
Major events that anticipate large crowds, road or parking lot closures, licensed areas, and/or take place over multiple days may take longer to review, approve, and process and could require approval from the City's Executive Management Team or City Council.