Kempenfest returns for a 54th edition on the Civic long weekend, July 31 to Aug. 3.
One of Ontario's largest waterfront festivals, the event attracts more than 100,00 people to Barrie to experience Canadian music, artists, makers, food, entertainment, and family programming.
The festival began on the August long weekend in 1971, and at the time, was billed as an "original art only" show at the Formosa Springs Brewery (later Molson Park). About 20 local artists displayed their work on snow fencing.
By 1975, the event had outgrown its original location and moved to the shore of Kempenfelt Bay at Centennial Beach. The Kiwanis Club joined the Barrie Art Club as a co-sponsor, and food vendors and crafters were added; the festival became known as Kempenfest.
Stretching 1.5 kilometres along Barrie's waterfront, admission to the event is free, except for the ticketed evening headliner concerts on the OLG Mainstage at the Rotary Beer Gardens.
All things Kempenfest 2026
- 300 arts, crafts and antique vendors brought you by the Huronia Festival Arts and Crafts and the Optimist Club of Barrie
- Robertson Amusement Midways presented by The Rec Room features cotton candy, a ferris wheel, a carousel, and over 30 rides and games
- Barrie Wrestling presents Bash by the Bay 5 at Centennial Beach, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
- Poutine Village, located in Centennial Park, offers a wide variety of poutine options, including bacon, beef, jerk chicken, halal, pork, tater tot, Texas chili, traditional vegetarian, and more
- The Oasis Lakeside Patio Bar is a licensed area serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, food, and live entertainment
Musical Acts on the OLG Mainstage
Friday, July 31 - Jamie Fine and guests, presented by KOOL FM
Saturday, Aug. 1 - Big Wreck and guests, presented by Rock 95
Sunday, Aug. 2 - High Valley and guests
Monday, Aug. 3 - Practically Hip and guests, presented by Rock 95
Pratt Homes Community Stage - Free concerts
Friday, July 31 - Bollywood Performances
Saturday, Aug. 1 - country night featuring Brian Harwood and guests
Sunday, Aug. 2 - rock concert lineup, with Falset and guests
Monday, Aug. 3 - features the Barrie Music School Showcase with over 30 youth performing artists
Free Shuttle Buses
Routes and schedules: kempenfest.com/shuttle-buses
Parking
Parking near the waterfront is also available. Please be aware that some downtown and waterfront parking lots are closed during Kempenfest.
Parking details: kempenfest.com/parking
"At a time when supporting our economy matters more than ever, Kempenfest gives residents and visitors a meaningful opportunity to buy local, support Canadian businesses and keep their dollars working here in the community," said Paul Markle, Chair of Kempenfest. "We invite everyone to join us this August long weekend, embrace all things Canadian and help celebrate people and organizations that make Kempenfest possible."
It's estimated that Kempenfest generates $9.5 million in tourism-induced economic impact for the City of Barrie.
