2026 National Accessibility Week is one of our favourite times of year, and this one is shaping up to be something special. From May 25 to 30, we're filling the Centre with conversations, celebrations, and community. Some of it will challenge you, some of it will move you, and some of it is just plain fun. We hope you'll join us for as much of it as you can.
Monday, May 25 | Removing Barriers in Sport: Forum and Demonstration
From 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., we're bringing together some of the most passionate voices in accessible sport for an honest, energizing conversation, followed by a live adaptive sport demonstration with Lacrossing Barriers at 6:15 p.m. that genuinely has to be seen to be believed. We're also thrilled to share that the Oshawa FireWolves of the National Lacrosse League will be on hand to support the event. It's a chance to meet players and staff, ask questions, and even jump in to experience the game alongside them. Whether you're an athlete, a coach, a parent, or just someone who believes sport should be open to all, this one's for you. Wear your athleisure, come ready to connect. Free event, spaces are limited.
Register for the Sports Forum
Tuesday, May 26 | Community Research Show 'n' Tell
Come spend the morning with us as researchers and community members share the work they're doing to make our world more accessible. It's a chance to learn what's happening in the field, ask questions, and connect with people who care about the same things you do. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and we'll wrap by 1 p.m.
Register for the Research Show 'n' Tell
Wednesday, May 27 | Accessibility Symposium: Dismantling Ableism
Ableism isn't just an attitude. It's built into our policies, our spaces, and our institutions, and we can't build a truly inclusive community without looking at those root causes head-on. That's what this morning is about. Together with the Regional Municipality of Durham, we're hosting an honest conversation with some of Canada's most thoughtful advocates. David Lepofsky, retired lawyer and Chair of the AODA Alliance, opens the morning, followed by a panel with Magda Madsen, Rick Watters of Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, and MissNatasha Connects, founder of Create Instead of Hate Mental Wellness Solutions. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free and open to everyone.
Register for the Accessibility Symposium
Thursday, May 28 | Abilities Centre Accessibility Awards
Our signature event of the year, the Accessibility Awards are a celebration of what's possible when people refuse to accept barriers as the status quo. Every year, individuals, employers, and organizations across Durham Region and Canada quietly change lives. They open doors, shift mindsets, and prove that accessibility isn't a checkbox, it's a movement. This is the night we bring them into the spotlight. Expect powerful stories, inspiring honourees, and a room full of people who believe, like we do, that a barrier-free Canada is worth building. Join us at 6:30 p.m. for an evening you won't forget.
Register for the Accessibility Awards
Friday, May 29 | Abilities Centre Birthday Bash
We're turning 14, and we wouldn't be here without you. Come celebrate everything our community has built together since we first opened our doors in 2012. The celebration kicks off at 5:30 p.m., and everyone is welcome.
Register for the Abilities Centre Birthday Bash
Saturday, May 30 | Spring Market
We're closing out the week the best way we know how: with our community, in our space, supporting one another. Our Spring Market brings together disability-led small businesses, artists, makers, and entrepreneurs from Durham Region and the GTA. Come shop, say hello, discover something new, and help us send National Accessibility Week off in style. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entry is pay-what-you-can or a non-perishable food item, with all food donations supporting Feed the Need Durham.