NIKOLA TESLA FEST 2026
AT THE SOURCE OF LIGHT
Celebrating the 170th Birthday of Nikola Tesla and 130 Years Since Niagara Falls Became the Source of Light for the Modern World
JULY 10-12, 2026 / NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA
WHY NIAGARA FALLS
Niagara Falls is not only one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, but also the birthplace of modern hydroelectric power and a defining moment in human progress.
It was here, in 1895–1896, that Nikola Tesla’s revolutionary alternating current (AC) system was first applied on a large scale, transforming the power of water into electricity and illuminating cities like Buffalo for the first time in history.
From this moment, Niagara Falls became the place where nature and human genius united to reshape the future of civilization. Here, at the Source of Light, a new era began, one that continues to power and inspire the world to this day.
This unprecedented concentration of innovation and infrastructure established Niagara as the first place in the world where large-scale electrical power generation became a reality.
Between 1895 and 1906, five major hydroelectric power plants were built at Niagara Falls, all utilizing Tesla’s AC system.
JULY 10, 2026 NIKOLA TESLA DAY
170TH BIRTHDAY OF NIKOLA TESLA
2:00 PM
FLAG RAISING CEREMONY
City Hall Niagara Falls
6:00 PM
FLOWER LAYING CEREMONY
Nikola Tesla Plaza
10:00 PM
NIAGARA FALLS ILLUMINATION & FIREWORKS
Lighting the Falls in Honour of Nikola Tesla
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
JULY 11, 2026
SCIENCE & INNOVATION DAYO
NIAGARA PARKS POWER STATION PLAZA
7005 Niagara Parkway Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
NEW TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE
HANDS-ON SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS
MEET THE INVENTORS & ENGINEERS
10:00 PM
NIAGARA FALLS ILLUMINATION & FIREWORKS
Lighting the Falls in Honour of Nikola Tesla
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
JULY 12, 2026 NIKOLA TESLA FEST GALA NIGHT
NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION CENTRE
6815 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3Y9
6:00 PM
DOOR OPENING
Welcome & Exhibition
7:00 PM
OFFICIAL PROGRAM BEGINS
AN EVENING OF LIGHT, MUSIC & INNOVATION
Stefan Milenkovich
VIOLINIST
Stefan Milenkovich, one of the leading violinists of his generation, is internationally acclaimed for his artistry, technical mastery, and expressive depth. A former child prodigy, he has performed in the world’s most prestigious concert halls across Europe and North America.
At Nikola Tesla Fest 2026 – At the Source of Light, he brings powerful emotion and a unique artistic voice that deeply connects with audiences.
Sinfonia Toronto
Sinfonia Toronto is a distinguished chamber orchestra known for its refined sound and artistic excellence. Composed of some of Canada’s finest musicians, the ensemble is internationally recognized for its elegance and versatility.
At Nikola Tesla Fest 2026, they bring precision, passion, and a rich orchestral energy, delivering performances that connect deeply with audiences.
Maja Kolundzija Zoroe
ACTRESS
SPARK (Iskra) is a one-woman theatrical performance about the life of Nikola Tesla, told through the emotional and intimate perspective of his mother, Đuka Mandić. Based on historical facts, letters, and testimonies, the play explores Tesla not only as a visionary scientist but as a son, revealing the family roots, personal struggles, and the deeply human story behind his genius. The performance will be presented in Tesla’s original language, with English subtitles displayed on a large screen.
This marks the North American premiere of SPARK, following successful performances in numerous European cities over the past two years.
Marija Jelic
SOPRANO
Marija Jelić is a renowned Serbian soprano, celebrated for her radiant voice and expressive stage presence. She has performed leading roles and major works worldwide, including a notable debut at Carnegie Hall.
At Nikola Tesla Fest 2026 – At the Source of Light, she brings elegance, power, and emotional depth to every performance.
Jelena Gavrilovic
ACTRESS
Jelena Gavrilović is a renowned Serbian actress known for her powerful stage presence and emotional depth across theatre, film, and television. With a distinguished international career, she is recognized for her versatility and compelling performances.
At Nikola Tesla Fest 2026 – At the Source of Light, she brings intensity, elegance, and storytelling that deeply resonates with audiences
Viktor Lazarov
PIANIST
Viktor Lazarov is a concert pianist and musicologist, recognized for his refined interpretations and expressive artistry. He has performed across Canada and Europe, bringing both intellectual depth and emotional nuance to his music.
At Nikola Tesla Fest 2026 – At the Source of Light, he delivers virtuosity, sensitivity, and a distinctive artistic voice that bridges tradition and innovation.
Barbara Dadino
WHERE LITERATURE MEETS LEGACY
Author and researcher Barbara Dadino brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the story of Nikola Tesla through her acclaimed book Tesla’s Cottage: The Lost History of Wardenclyffe.
Living in Nikola Tesla’s former home in Shoreham, Long Island, overlooking the Sound near the historic Wardenclyffe site, Barbara explores the human side of Tesla’s life — his dreams, struggles, solitude, and unwavering vision for the future. Her work offers readers a rare glimpse into the world surrounding Tesla during the final chapter of his groundbreaking career.
At Nikola Tesla Fest 2026 — At the Source of Light, Barbara Dadino will present Tesla’s Cottage and meet visitors during a special book presentation and signing event. Her appearance will offer audiences an inspiring opportunity to discover the lesser-known story of Tesla’s life at Wardenclyffe and the enduring spirit of one of history’s greatest visionaries.
Support Tesla Legacy Worldwide
Workplace Giving Available Through Benevity
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
Live music, orchestral sound, science, art, light installations, and unforgettable moments at Niagara Falls — celebrating Nikola Tesla’s legacy.