March 21st is World Puppetry Day, a global standing ovation for the artists, storytellers, and dreamers who breathe life into the inanimate. Established in 2003 by UNIMA (Union Internationale de la Marionnette), this day reminds us that whether you are in a theatre in Paris or on the streets of Almonte, puppets speak a universal language.
This year, the global puppetry community celebrates under the theme: “Together, We Create the Movement.” For us here at Puppets Up!, this theme feels like the perfect reflection of our own journey over the last five years.
What a Difference Five Years Makes
It is hard to believe that exactly five years ago, in March 2021, the world looked very different. We were at the height of a pandemic, and our streets were quiet. But even then, the “reputation of joy” that defines this festival was simmering just below the surface.
When our beloved Noreen Young (1939–2025) posted a tribute to World Puppetry Day on Facebook that year, it acted as a digital spark. Noreen was a titan of the craft—a recipient of the Order of Canada whose work on Under the Umbrella Tree and Hi Diddle Day brought magic into living rooms across the country. But to us, she was the heart of Almonte.
Our Executive Director, Jane Torrance, saw Noreen’s post and asked a question that would change everything: “Can we restart Puppets Up!?” The festival had been dormant for four years, but Jane, Noreen, and Kris Riendeau knew the world needed more joy and laughter. They put out a call to the community to see if anyone wanted to help “pull a rabbit out of a hat”… and seventy-five people joined a Zoom call. Seventy-five!! On April 22, 2021, a new movement was born.
Evolution of the Movement: 2021 to 2026
In 2021, the “movement” was about resilience—finding a way to bring people back together. Today, in 2026, the movement is about sustainability and legacy.
We’ve evolved to protect the energy of our incredible “Volunt-heroes” by moving to a biennial format. This rhythm allows us to catch our breath, but it also creates space for special moments in our “off-years.” In 2025, we celebrated Noreen’s incredible life with “Noreen’s Night of Nonsense” and established the Noreen Young Award for the Arts, ensuring that her spark continues to ignite the movement for future generations of creators.
Now, as Puppets Up! – Presented by Minto, we see that same spirit of community-building reflected in our partners. Whether we are building a new neighborhood at Weaver’s Way or building a world-class festival lineup, we are all pulling in the same direction.
Together, We Create the Movement
Five years ago, we were just a bunch of people on a Zoom call hoping for a little joy. Today, we are a thriving international destination. The “movement” isn’t just about moving a puppet’s strings—it’s about the momentum of a town that refuses to let the magic fade.
Want to add to the magic? Here’s where to start:
- Save on Tickets: Celebrate World Puppetry Day by securing your Early Bird Tickets before the March 31st deadline!
- Answer the Call: Step up as a Volunt-hero and help us lead the charge for August 8th and 9th.
- Keep the Joy Moving: Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on all the surprises we have in store for 2026.
Happy World Puppetry Day! Thank you for being the hands that keep our puppets—and Noreen’s beautiful legacy—moving.
