There is time to reflect on Kempenfest 2023, but the board of directors are already planning for next year's event.
Board chair Bob Stones says about 100,000 to 125,000 people attended Kempenfest over the Civic Holiday weekend, numbers similar to 2022. He says the gloomy forecast on the holiday Monday may have hurt a little bit, but overall everyone was pleased with the attendance.
There were more than 350 arts, crafts and antique exhibits at this year's event. Stones says some vendors reported that Kempenfest this summer was the best they've had in terms of sales, though others reported overall spending was down. He says that's consistent with information they have received from other events and festivals this year, which Stones attributes to the economy.
The concert line-up created a buzz with the likes of Finger Eleven, Tom Cochrane and Jade Eagleson.
"We were really pleased with the ticket sales," said Stones. "They exceeded our expectations."
Organizers also got a lot of positive comments about the diversity of programming at the family stage near the Children's Village, and Stones hopes to build on that next year.
Dotting two-kilometres of Barrie's waterfront, Kempenfest has been around for 51 years and is now one of the largest outdoor arts, crafts and music festivals in Ontario.
Stones said the board is focused not on making Kempenfest bigger, but instead, making it better.
At a recent meeting of the board of directors, it was acknowledged there were little tweaks that could be made.
"One of the things we'd like to do next year is reach out to some of the other groups in the community and get input from them. Barrie is changing and it's a growing city, and we want Kempenfest 2024 to reflect what the city is and to highlight all the positive things about Barrie."
There was also chatter about improving the shuttle buses and adding better signage.
Based on figures from last year, the economic impact Kempenfest brings to the Barrie area is about $8 million.
"I know speaking to many of the vendors that they had a hard time getting hotel rooms, and even the campsites were full," said Stones. "It's a driver for local business, as well."
For many people, Kempenfest is also a homecoming.
"I know a lot of people come home for the long weekend, and Kempenfest is a trip that everyone makes. I spoke to a lot of people who said they've attended Kempenfest for a number of years and wouldn't miss it because it is a community event and a chance to connect with people."
Banner image - photos - Barrie 360
