Artisan Backyard Social is a monthly outdoor evening gathering hosted behind Artisan Bakery in Old East Village, London, Ontario. Taking place on select Mondays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM throughout the summer, the event brings together food, local makers, music, and community in a relaxed backyard setting.
The event is designed as a neighbourhood-focused social space where residents and visitors can gather after work, enjoy a casual dinner, and connect with others in the community. Set in the courtyard and garden area behind the bakery, the space is transformed with picnic tables, string lighting, and an open, welcoming atmosphere that encourages people to stay, eat, and spend time together.
At the centre of the event is Artisan Bakery’s food program, featuring sourdough pizza, baked goods, and a selection of drinks. The menu is designed to be approachable and easy to enjoy in a social setting, allowing guests to order, sit, and take in the environment without the formality of a traditional dining experience.
Alongside the food offering, the event features a curated group of local vendors and makers. These vendors are selected to reflect the creative and independent spirit of the neighbourhood, and may include artists, craftspeople, vintage sellers, plant and flower vendors, and other small-scale producers. The goal is not to create a large or crowded market, but rather a thoughtful and balanced mix of participants that complements the overall atmosphere of the event.
Live acoustic music is also a key part of the experience. Performances are intentionally kept low-key and appropriately scaled for the setting, providing a soundtrack to the evening without overwhelming conversation or the surrounding neighbourhood. Music is scheduled to conclude earlier in the evening to ensure the event remains respectful of nearby residents.
Artisan Backyard Social places a strong emphasis on community engagement. In addition to local vendors, the event includes space for non-profit and community organizations to participate through informational booths. This creates an opportunity for residents to learn about local initiatives, connect with community groups, and engage with the neighbourhood in a meaningful way.
Future iterations of the event may also include a community garden table, where local residents can share or sell homegrown plants, herbs, or produce on a pay-what-you-can basis. This initiative is intended to further strengthen neighbourhood connections and celebrate local growing and seasonal cycles.
The event is family-friendly and open to all ages. Entry is free, and guests are encouraged to drop in at any point throughout the evening. Whether stopping by for a quick slice of pizza or staying for the full evening, attendees can expect a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Artisan Backyard Social is intentionally modest in scale, prioritizing quality of experience over size. The goal is to create a recurring event that feels consistent, comfortable, and genuinely connected to the neighbourhood, rather than a large or commercialized festival.
By taking place on Monday evenings, the event also aims to activate a typically quieter time of the week, offering an accessible and low-pressure option for socializing and dining. Over time, the series is intended to become a regular part of the neighbourhood rhythm and a space where people can gather with familiarity and ease.
Event Dates:
May 25
June 22
July 20
August 24
September 21
Time:
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location:
Behind Artisan Bakery
Old East Village, London, Ontario
Artisan Backyard Social offers a simple but intentional experience: good food, thoughtful vendors, music, and a shared outdoor space where the community can come together.
